San Francisco's Middle Earth

Hiking San Francisco's Mount Sutro

03.30.2017
Hiker in the forest at Mount Sutro in San Francisco

No need to travel to New Zealand to visit Middle Earth. San Francisco’s Mount Sutro Open Space is practically Hobbiton—a hidden “shire” in the middle of the city. Okay, maybe not quite as magical, but still an incredible place to take a hike in city limits. There are multiple ways to access this open space.

We recommend starting at the secret stairway off of Stanyan and 17th Street for a 2-mile (round-trip) hike through verdant forest and towering eucalyptus trees, with sneak-a-peek views of the Pacific at the summit. Start by steadily ascending on the Fairy Gates Trail (yep, switchbacks exist in the city!).

Along the way you’ll pass some artistic woodcarvings (done by local hobbits?). The final push to the 900-foot peak of Mount Sutro is on the North Ridge Trail. You won’t get big views from up here due to the thick eucalyptus forest. But as you descend the East Ridge and Mystery Trails you’ll get some quick glimpses of the ocean and even the Golden Gate Bridge. Short and Sutro sweet!

Hiker going up stairs to enter Mount Sutro in San Francisco

Hiker on a trail at Mount Sutro in San Francisco

Hiker looking up at trees in Mount Sutro San Francisco

Hiker in Mount Sutro forest in San Francisco

TIP: A few blocks away inoVino wine bar is a great spot with standout Italian varietals and a tasty food menu to keep the pairings interesting.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Waterfall Hunter

    If you ask a local in Reno about one of the best hiking trails in town, odds are high they’ll point you to Hunter Creek Falls. It’s a year-round favorite, but it absolutely shines in spring, when desert peach wildflowers make a splash—and so does the marquee waterfall.

    View

  2. Cheers to Chimney

    If you’re looking for all that Point Reyes has to offer in spring, Chimney Rock is the place to be. The 1.75-mile (round-trip) hike to Chimney may be short, but it packs a visual punch, quadrupling the viewing thrills during spring.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

    View

  4. Hello, Sur!

    Big Sur is home to numerous fantastic beaches and coves, so which one do you choose? Go for the beach that's quintessential Big Sur (and dog-friendly!). Pfeiffer Beach in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. Its signature lilac-colored sand is waiting for your feet!

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Garland in Bloom

    Carmel Valley is known for its quaint wineries and scenic hiking trails. Enjoy both on this 3.75-mile loop through Garland Ranch Regional Park.

    View
  2. A woman stands amid an array of yellow and purple flowers at Descanso Gardens in Los Angeles

    Petal Paradise

    Tulips, lilacs, and daffodils—flower power is in full bloom at Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge. Sprawling across 150 acres surrounded by mountains, the gardens are putting on their best show right now.

    View
  3. Bike the Coastal Trail to Pillar Point Harbor in Half Moon Bay

    Ride and Seek

    Oceanside breezes, beautiful beaches, a car-free pathway for biking, and beer at the end: You’re on a roll! The San Mateo Coast was made for beach hopping and beer tasting … and it all goes down smooth as part of an 8-mile out-and-back bike ride.

    View

  4. Tamtastic Sunset

    Sure, the East Peak of Mount Tam is absolutely spectacular at sunset, but some magic-hour enthusiasts are onto a fresh perspective in getting a little more personal space for their panoramic viewings.

    View