The Coastal Trail is the true connoisseur's way to drink deeply from the quintessence of the California experience. Get your sip along any segment, and enjoy some of the best landscapes and seascapes in the Golden State.

Just across the street from the Pelican Inn and a short walk from Muir Beach, this trail ascends gradually and offers wonderful views of Muir Beach. Eventually you'll connect with the Miwok Trail.

The trail loop begins on the single-track Oakwood Valley Trail and finishes on the broad Fire Road Trail.

This loop hike dishes up a sampler platter of sensational Marin County scenery! Start on the sands of Muir Beach, wind your way up Dias Ridge, swing around down Wolf Ridge, and celebrate the completion of your loop by raising a pint at the Pelican Inn, and English-style pub

Visit a beautiful part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area in an loop easily accessible by car, bike, and SamTrans bus lines. This area was improved with the help of community and park volunteers and is a showcase of restored native plants and animal species.

From: Arguello Gate

To: the Golden Gate Bridge and back

Explore the charm, seclusion, natural wonders, and historic and cultural variety of the Presidio.

This mellow hike was a joy in spring: wildflowers everywhere, great views, no fog. We chose the hiker-only trails where we could, but bike routes cover similar ground.

Hill 88, towering 1,053 feet above Rodeo Beach, is reached via a 2.5-mile segment of the Coastal Trail. It starts flat but features a steep climb. Along the way, you'll pass Battery Townsley and ascend Wolf Ridge. A spur trail takes you to former gun emplacements and bunkers.

Restored in 2001, Crissy Field wasted no time in becoming a San Francisco icon and a gem of the Parks Conservancy. The former military airfield now sports a clean, smooth promenade with views of the Golden Gate, Alcatraz, and the North and East Bays.