There is no better way to start your day than jumping out of bed at 5AM and heading out for a sunrise hike. OK - waking up at 5AM is never easy, but you'll be glad you did once the sun rises and you set out on your day after any one of these 5 sunrise hikes.
Watch the early morning light come through the Golden Gate Bridge at Hawk Hill in Marin. It's a quick and easy trip that early in the morning with no traffic and you'll be rewarded with one of the most epic sunrises you'll ever see. Learn more.
Insider Tip: If you need a refill on coffee after this morning adventure, head to Philz in Sausalito. It opens at 6am.
Tucked away in Cole Valley, Tank Hill is something of a hidden gem — it’s hard to find unless you know it’s there. On an early morning sunrise hike, your virtually guaranteed to be the only ones there. Drive to the eastern dead end of Belgrave Avenue and follow the small path up to the 650-foot summit, where you’ll get views spanning from the Marin Headlands to the southern end of the East Bay. Learn more.
Inside Tip: There’s only one bench up there, but more than enough space to spread out a picnic blanket. Grab supplies at the market on Cole Street and lunch al fresco.
You may be surprised to learn that Mt. Davidson, not Twin Peaks, is the highest point in San Francisco. You shouldn’t be surprised, then, that the sunrise views from the peak of Mt. Davidson are unbeatable. Learn more.
Insider Tip: If you have a dog, bring your four-legged friend along and remember to bring a leash.
Hike San Francisco’s Lands End Trail
Being on the West Coast, we can't really catch the sunrise over the ocean, but it's still a beautiful time of day to catch views of the Pacific. Bite the bullet and head to Lands End where four miles of beautiful, well-maintained trails will give you views of China Beach, Sutro Baths, and the Golden Gate Bridge. The hike isn’t strenuous at all, so you won't be too worn out the rest of the day. Learn more.
Inside Tip: While you’re on the Coastal Trail, look for a turnoff to Mile Rock Beach. Follow the signs and you’ll find yourself at a large stone labyrinth created by artist Eduardo Aguilera in 2004.
Sweeping City Views From Bernal Heights
Looking for your quick and easy weekday sunrise hike? This short hike—okay, more like a stroll—to the top of Bernal Heights Park is the perfect spot for a pre-work hike and of course, to watch the sunrise over the San Francisco skyline. Learn more.
Insider Tip: Hit up the grocery store down the street from the park at the intersection of Mission and Virginia to pick up fresh breakfast ingredients.
