San Francisco’s mix of steep hills, scenic parks, and nearby national treasures makes it a fantastic hub for Hiking and Trekking Tours. The city itself offers vibrant neighborhoods, panoramic city views from Twin Peaks, and secret stairways that challenge even experienced walkers. Just outside the city, Yosemite National Park beckons with its towering waterfalls, giant sequoias, and dramatic cliffs—perfect for those seeking a full-day escape into nature. Whether you’re after a quick urban trek or a day immersed in wilderness, San Francisco’s diverse terrains and expert-led tours are ready to satisfy your curiosity.
Unlike more generic travel destinations, San Francisco’s hiking tours stand out with their emphasis on authentic local experiences, small-group intimacy, and scenic highlights like Yosemite’s Half Dome and Bridalveil Fall. These tours are designed to fit a variety of interests and fitness levels, from quick city walks to full-day excursions into the national park. To help you decide, here’s a quick overview of the best options available.
1. From SF: Yosemite Day Trip with Giant Sequoias Hike & Pickup
At number 1 on our list, this full-day adventure (more details here) offers a comprehensive Yosemite experience with a small group of no more than 15 travelers. It’s perfect for those who want to see iconic sights like Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and El Capitan all in one day, without the hassle of planning logistics. The tour includes a hike among the giant sequoias, weather permitting, providing an up-close encounter with some of the largest living trees on Earth.
What makes this tour stand out is its intimate group size and flexibility—more stops mean more photo opportunities and less rushing. The guide’s extensive Yosemite knowledge shines through with stories, documentaries, and personal insights, making the long drive feel much shorter. Reviewers consistently praise the guide’s enthusiasm and storytelling, and the small group makes the trip feel special. It’s best suited for travelers with a full day to spare and a love for natural beauty.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-rounded Yosemite day that balances sightseeing, hiking, and commentary, this tour offers excellent value at $229.
2. San Francisco Urban Hike: Castro and Twin Peaks
This 3-hour urban adventure (more info here) is perfect if you’re looking to explore San Francisco’s neighborhoods and get a solid workout. It hits Tank Hill, Kite Hill, Seward Street Slides, and culminates at the top of Twin Peaks for sweeping city views. The tour is designed to uncover some of the city’s best-kept secrets—like tiny parks and hidden stairways—while giving you a taste of local life.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on local culture and neighborhoods, especially the colorful Castro District and North Beach. The guide is a San Francisco native, sharing stories and legends that add depth to the experience. The hike involves some hills and stairs, making it ideal for those in decent shape who enjoy a challenge. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guide and the stunning viewpoints, noting it as a “unique way to experience the city.”
Bottom Line: For a quick, energetic look at San Francisco’s neighborhoods and viewpoints, this tour balances exercise with sightseeing at a reasonable price of $89.
3. San Francisco: Day Trip to Yosemite with Giant Sequoias Hike
This day trip to Yosemite is a more budget-friendly option at $209, designed for travelers eager to see Yosemite’s famous glaciers, waterfalls, and giant sequoias. The tour includes a 1.5-hour hike among the sequoias, with plenty of free time to wander Yosemite Valley or sit quietly by the waterfalls. It uses eco-friendly biofuel vehicles, making it a slightly more sustainable choice.
What makes this tour notable is the focus on avoiding crowds while experiencing Yosemite’s highlights such as El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. The itinerary includes multiple photo stops—Tunnel View and Yosemite Falls—and enough flexibility for a relaxed visit. Surprisingly, many reviews mention how the guide’s stories and humor enhance the day, with one calling the trip “a great time, and the experience is truly once in a lifetime.” This tour suits those short on time but keen on a deeply memorable Yosemite visit.
Bottom Line: If you want a budget-conscious, efficient Yosemite experience that highlights the park’s main sights, this tour delivers for $209.
4. San Francisco Urban Hike: Coit Tower, Lombard Street and North Beach
For those who enjoy challenging walks and exploring diverse neighborhoods, this urban hike is ideal. Covering a 5-mile route with plenty of elevation, it takes you from Levi’s Plaza Park to Coit Tower (with inside murals), and through Lombard Street’s famous curves and North Beach’s lively streets. The route involves many stairs and steep hills, which makes it perfect for active travelers.
The tour combines spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the city skyline with visits to lesser-known spots like Jack Early Park. The guide keeps the pace lively and shares interesting tidbits about the city’s neighborhoods, making this an enriching experience. Reviewers note the tour’s strenuous nature but praise the panoramic views and the guide’s energetic storytelling. It’s best suited for those in decent shape who want more than just a casual stroll.
Bottom Line: A demanding but rewarding way to see San Francisco’s famous hills and hidden corners for $54.
5. Coit Tower Hike with Secret San Francisco Views
If you’re after a quick, affordable way to see Coit Tower and enjoy spectacular city views, this short tour is an excellent choice. At only $13.99, it lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes, guiding you through Telegraph Hill’s gardens and stairways to the tower’s observation deck.
The highlight is the panoramic vista that includes the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and downtown San Francisco. The guide shares stories about the tower’s murals and the significance of Telegraph Hill, adding context to the views. Reviewers appreciate the quick pace and the stunning photographs taken during the climb, making this ideal for travelers with limited time or those wanting a compact but memorable experience.
Bottom Line: An economical way to access stunning views of San Francisco with minimal time investment.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, available time, and interest levels. If you’re after a full-day, in-depth Yosemite experience, the Yosemite Day Trip with Giant Sequoias offers excellent value, especially with its small group size. For urban explorers seeking a taste of San Francisco’s neighborhoods and scenic city views, the urban hikes provide a good workout and local flavor.
Those with limited time or on a tighter budget might prefer the shorter Coit Tower hike, or the San Francisco Urban Hike: Coit Tower, Lombard Street, which combine iconic sights with physical challenge.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular Yosemite trips, as these fill up quickly during peak seasons. Consider your fitness level, as some tours involve hills and stairs, and choose one that matches your interests—nature, cityscapes, or a mix of both.
Final Thoughts
San Francisco offers a wide array of hiking and trekking options that cater to different interests and fitness levels. For a full immersion in Yosemite’s grandeur, the Yosemite Day Trip delivers a memorable experience. If urban exploration with a fitness element appeals, the Castro and Twin Peaks hike or the challenging Coit Tower walk are excellent choices.
For travelers who want a quick but breathtaking view of the city, the Coit Tower Secret Views offers a budget-friendly option. Each tour provides a chance to see San Francisco from a different perspective—urban, natural, or a blend of both.
Start planning early, pick one that fits your interests, and get ready for some unforgettable walks in the hills and beyond.