Location: San Francisco.

Distance: 4.5 miles (point-to-point). 

Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate.

Know Before You Go:
While surprisingly unknown, this trail still sees quite a bit of traffic, so expect some company along the way. The route is one-way, unless you want to retrace your steps, so plan accordingly. Parking is available on Point Lobos Avenue or on El Camino Del Mar, but spaces can be limited, especially on weekends. The path is exposed, so it’s essential to wear sunscreen (even on overcast days) and lots of layers, in case of fog, cold winds, or rain. Always practice Leave No Trace principles. 

Why We Love It:
This scenic stretch of the California Coastal Trail offers breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge, along with spectacular viewpoints like Sutro Baths, Marin Headlands, Eagle’s Point, and Cliff House. You’ll also encounter multiple beach access points. The trail is suitable for families, making it one of the most beautiful and accessible hikes in the Bay Area—perfect for repeat visits, no matter the season..

Fuel Up:
If you're looking to treat yourself, head to Scoma’s Restaurant (scomas.com) on Pier 47 for some added mileage and a mouthwatering meal. Known for its long-standing relationships with local fishermen, Scoma’s has been serving fresh seafood for over 58 years. The clam chowder is a local favorite (often called one of the best in the country), but the "lazy man's" cioppino and linguine con vongole (linguine with clams) are also highly recommended.

For more information, visit alltrails.com/trail/us/california/california-coastal-trail-lands-end-to-golden-gate-bridge.

Leave No Trace vs. Culture
A once serene and Zen-like respite for many San Francisco locals has come to an end. At Eagle’s Point along the Lands End trail, a handcrafted stone labyrinth, perched on one of the most stunning points along the Pacific Ocean, became a cherished spot for visitors seeking tranquility. Over time, however, the structure was repeatedly dismantled by vandals for reasons that remain unclear. Eventually, the labyrinth’s informal caretaker decided not to rebuild it, marking the end of a unique feature on the trail.

Some have speculated that the dismantling of the labyrinth may have been motivated by a desire to return the area to its “natural” state, aligning with the core principle of Leave No Trace (LNT) ethics. This ethic encourages minimal human impact on natural landscapes, advocating for preserving and respecting nature as it exists without added human interference.

While I’m fully on board with the Leave No Trace principles, I also believe in the value of art and cultural expression in the outdoors. I’ve personally experienced the healing benefits of nature, and I want it to be preserved for future generations. The question remains: When does art in nature enhance the experience, and when does it disrupt the very landscape that it’s meant to honor? Should the outdoors remain untouched, or is there room for human creativity?

I’m still unsure about the labyrinth’s place in this debate, but one thing is clear—I will miss seeing it on my next trip to Lands End.

by Ryan Martinez
Trail photos courtesy of San Francisco Travel Association. Scoma's food photo by Joanie Simon. Scoma's exterior photo by Rich Johnson.

Do you have a favorite trail in the region you’d like to see featured? Tell us all about it by emailing [email protected].