It only takes one look from the summit at San Francisco’s Twin Peaks to know you're somewhere special. Sitting in the heart of San Francisco, this park, named for two towering hills, gives locals and visitors alike a chance to see the city in all its glory. Those who venture to the top are gifted 360-degree views of San Francisco, making the Twin Peaks one of the city's must-see natural landmarks. Here's what you need to know about this jewel of the Bay Area.
What Is Twin Peaks?
Located smack dab in the middle of the city, Twin Peaks is named after a pair of hills that provide a 360-degree view of San Francisco from their perch about 925 feet above sea level. The North and South peaks are roughly 660 feet apart from one another, and together they form a barrier for coastal fog rolling in off the water.
Before Europeans arrived in San Francisco, the native Ohlone people reportedly used the two hills of Twin Peaks as a lookout over the peninsula. When Spanish conquistadors made the area their home, they named the pair Los Pechos de la Chola, or the "Breasts of the Maiden." After California became part of the United States, though, the area gained a more family-friendly name: Twin Peaks.
Getting to Twin Peaks
Thanks to its central location in San Francisco, there are plenty of ways to travel to Twin Peaks. Those driving from Fisherman's Wharf, Embarcadero, or the downtown area can take Market Street, and it’s just a quick trip southeast for fans of the outdoors who are soaking up the sunshine in Golden Gate Park. If you're looking to ditch your car, Twin Peaks is also accessible by bus: jump on the 37 Corbett line and get off at the "Burnett Ave & Crestline Dr" stop, and you'll be steps from the hills.
Twin Peaks San Francisco Parking: Street parking is available just off of Crestline Drive, and there is a small parking lot located near Christmas Tree Point.
Getting to the Best Views at Twin Peaks
It's not difficult to find the best views at Twin Peaks. Whether you arrive by car, bus, bike, or on your own two feet, you'll enjoy some spectacular vistas of the San Francisco skyline. No matter what time you're taking in Twin Peaks—check out this gem during the day or at night for views of the illuminated skyline—you're sure to leave with some memories (and hopefully a few pictures) of the resplendent city.
Twin Peaks’ Christmas Tree Point is the most popular spot for seeing San Francisco. Look north to catch glimpses of Golden Gate Park, the Presidio, and further on, the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. A glance eastward reveals downtown San Francisco as well as the cities of Oakland and Berkeley on the other side of the San Francisco Bay. The endless expanse of the Pacific Ocean lies to the west, with San Bruno Mountain State and County Park rising in the distance to the south.
Twin Peaks is also part of a protected natural area and is home to a diverse array of flora and wildlife. The land is part of the endangered Mission blue butterfly habitat conservation, and lucky visitors will see the beautiful insects.
5 Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Time at Twin Peaks
Here are a few tips to make the most of your experience visiting Twin Peaks:
Tip No. 1: Pack for the weather
Consider bringing a jacket when you visit Twin Peaks. San Francisco is sandwiched between two bodies of water, meaning winds can whip up out of nowhere. And at elevation, the temperature can get a bit chilly. Throw in the occasional fog, and it’s no wonder why the happiest guests are the ones who come wearing layers.
Tip No. 2: Check out the light show
Visiting Twin Peaks at night? In addition to breathtaking views of the city lit up under the evening sky, park visitors will experience a light show on certain nights. As if San Francisco weren't pretty enough, this added display cements its status as one of the loveliest cities in California.
Tip No. 3: Hike Mount Sutro
Just west of Twin Peaks lies Mount Sutro, a picturesque hill in the heart of the city blanketed with a dense eucalyptus tree forest. If you are the hiking type, the Twin Peaks and Mount Sutro loop—a 5.5-mile trek that takes visitors across all three hills—is an ideal way to spend the afternoon. Just make sure to bring comfortable footwear.
Tip No. 4: Soak in some history
If hiking isn’t your thing, why not check out some classic San Francisco culture? The nearby Haight-Ashbury neighborhood was the epicenter of 1967's Summer of Love, and remnants of the decade's historic counterculture that swept the nation still exist. Beautifully painted buildings and lively streets make Haight-Ashbury an unmissable stop on your tour of the Bay Area.
Tip No. 5: Grab a bite
Thanks to its central location, there are plenty of stellar food options near Twin Peaks. Head over to the nearby Castro District—one of the most historic neighborhoods in the city—and take your pick from some of the most exciting dining options on the peninsula. It’s the perfect pit stop after working up an appetite on your hike.
A trip to San Francisco isn't complete without a journey to Twin Peaks. Whether you're looking to break a sweat and put some miles on your shoes, or trying to take in the sights, the park has something for everyone. Better yet, it makes a fun stop at the beginning of trips, as visitors can catch glimpses of the exciting San Francisco landmarks they may soon be seeing up close.
No matter when you go to Twin Peaks—whether it’s your first time, or your 50th—one thing is for certain: there's no better place to see all San Francisco has to offer than from the top of these stunning hills. Make sure it's part of your vacation itinerary, along with California’s other must-see natural wonders.
