Tag the friend you’d attempt this hike with 👇
On 3/16/26, I hiked across San Francisco… from the Pacific Ocean to the Bay.
The Double Cross Hike might be the most underrated urban hike in California…maybe America.
Stats from my hike:
⏱️ 5 hours 46 minutes
📏 Just under 16 miles
⬆️ 2,012 ft elevation gain
What makes this route special is the variety. In one day you’ll go from coastal cliffs at Fort Funston to natural lakes, hidden stairways, historic neighborhoods, and finally the Embarcadero.
Tips if you attempt it:
• Bring water, but you’ll find refill stations in several parks along the route
• There are multiple bathrooms along the trail (Lake Merced, Alamo Square and others)
• Navigation can be tricky, especially finding staircases you need to go up/down. Use GPS and watch for Bay Area Ridge Trail markers
• Don’t miss the tree swing around mile 5.4
• Stop inside San Francisco City Hall (free, but you’ll go through security)
• Take your time through Twin Peaks, Alamo Square, Chinatown, and North Beach.
This trail was designed as the sister route to the Crosstown Trail, offering another way to experience the city diagonally across parks, stairways, and neighborhoods.
Follow for California trail guides & pro hiking tips. You can also find my free hidden gem guide to San Francisco on my Substack.
Having recently completed the Double Cross Hike myself, I can confidently say it's one of the most unique city hikes I've done. What truly stands out is how the trail seamlessly blends diverse environments—from the windy coastal cliffs at Fort Funston to the tranquil Pine Lake Park and the vibrant neighborhoods like Chinatown and North Beach. This shift in scenery keeps the hike engaging throughout. One personal tip is to start early—doing the hike in the morning helps you avoid crowds at popular stops like Alamo Square and Twin Peaks, where the views of the city skyline and Painted Ladies are breathtaking. The GPS route markers for the Bay Area Ridge Trail really help with navigation, but I recommend pre-downloading the maps just in case cellular service gets spotty, especially near the West Portal Tunnel and some hidden staircases. I highly recommend spending time at the Embarcadero at the end of the hike to relax and enjoy views of the bay. The tree swing near mile 5.4 is definitely worth a stop to snap photos and enjoy a playful break. Also, bringing snacks and refilling water at the parks along the way proved very useful for keeping energy levels steady. For anyone looking to experience San Francisco beyond the typical tourist paths, this urban hike combines natural beauty, city history, and culture into a memorable day out. It’s a perfect blend for both avid hikers and casual explorers wanting to see the city from a fresh perspective.
