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how to get to twin peaks san francisco

As you cross the Bay Bridge, you get your first view of Twin Peaks, a recognizable feature of the urban environment that towers above the city. Located in the geographical center of San Francisco with an elevation of about 925 feet (282 m), Twin Peaks offers a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of the city, the bay and the ocean beyond.

On a daily basis, you will see countless bicyclists racing to the top and photographers and filmmakers jockeying for the perfect shot. The perspective ranges from Ocean Beach  and the  Golden Gate Bridge  to the  Mission District and Potrero Hill will make you gasp for air. Twin Peaks should be firmly planted on any visitor’s must-see list .

General Visitor Info

If you want to trek to the summit, put on strong shoes and prepare for windy weather. There is a terrific view at the top, but if you want to get the full experience, enjoy a half mile walk around the whole area. On this track, there are a few quite steep ascents and descents. You can also drive to the summit parking lot where a sidewalk curves around a portion of the hill and you can enjoy the view from a telescopic viewer for 50 cents.

The Best Time to Visit Twin Peaks

Want to make everyone envious and blow up your Instagram feed? Either just before dawn or just after dusk are the ideal times to explore Twin Peaks. If you can’t get there that early or don’t want to wait until sunset, head up there on a foggy day. The fog diffuses the harsh light, making it ideal for Instagram-worthy photos.

What to Expect at the Top of Twin Peaks

Twin Peaks is 925 feet above sea level, so don’t be deceived by the good weather down below. Pro tip: look up in the sky before starting your way up to Twin Peaks. There might be fog and clouds waiting for you. Bring more clothing, particularly when the sun sets.

How to Get There

There are two popular methods to get by automobile to Twin Peaks:

  • Market Street is the most direct route to the mountain’s foot. Take Market southwest from the center of town until it becomes Portola. Turn right onto Twin Peaks Boulevard from Portola, then follow the road all the way to the summit.
  • Take Market to 17th, then left onto Clayton, then turn right onto Twin Peaks Blvd. as an alternative route. After you take the right, take another left to stay on Twin Peaks Blvd. and then you can wind up to the parking lot on the summit.

There are also a few alternatives if you choose not to drive:

  • Bike rental: You can rent a bike and take the same route to Twin Peaks as you would with a car. Please be aware that this narrow route has no bike lanes, so you must ride with extreme caution.
  • When hiking, stick to the same route you would on a bike or in a vehicle. However, you have the option of climbing straight up the hillside rather than using the road once you reach the foot of the summits. This is possibly the best way to get to Twin Peaks without a car, as you will find 360-degree views that surpass those at the north peak overlook. The park’s southern and eastern slopes are home to additional paths. To avoid poison oak, be careful on keep to the route (depending on the time of year).
  • There are presently no public buses that go to the top of Twin Peaks, however you may use the 37 Corbett Muni bus to get near to the peak’s base before hiking up to the summit.
  • Tour bus: Twin Peaks is a common stop for San Francisco’s tour bus companies.

Did You Know?

Every peak has a unique name. The North Peak is called Eureka Peak and the South Peak is Noe Peak.

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