Field guide
The Lands End trail for runners and hikers
Official information for running or hiking the Lands End trail in San Francisco. Find details on the Coastal Trail, parking, and transit access.
Lands End is a wild and windy area in the northwestern corner of San Francisco. Its trails wind around rocky cliffs above the ocean, offering views of the shore, headlands, and the Golden Gate.
This guide provides official information for runners and hikers. It covers trail features, access, and rules for visiting the area.
Official facts at a glance
- Description
- wild and windy trail with stunning views
- Location
- northwestern corner of San Francisco
- Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible trails
- Parking availability
- available
- Specific parking lot
- Merrie Way parking lot
- Transit access
- MUNI bus lines
- Hiking rules
- Stay on trails and keep distance from cliffs
- Trail features
- winds around rocky cliffs above the ocean, through shady stands of cypress and eucalyptus, spectacular views of the shore, headlands, and Golden Gate
- Notable trail
- Coastal Trail
- Notable trail
- El Camino Del Mar Trail
- Notable feature
- memorial to the USS San Francisco
- Notable feature
- West Fort Miley batteries with grassy picnic area
- Notable features
- views of shipwrecks of old and access to the ruins of Sutro baths
- Visitor center
- Lands End Lookout
Source: Lands End (nps.gov). Official page, checked Oct 21, 2026.
The trails at Lands End
The trails at Lands End wind around rocky cliffs and pass through shady stands of cypress and eucalyptus. Notable routes include the Coastal Trail and the El Camino Del Mar Trail.
Along the paths, there are views of shipwrecks and access to the ruins of the Sutro Baths. Other points of interest include a memorial to the USS San Francisco and the West Fort Miley batteries, which has a grassy picnic area.
Trail rules and safety
Visitors must stay on the designated trails. For safety, it is important to keep a distance from the cliffs.
Access and facilities
Parking is available for visitors, including at the Merrie Way parking lot. The area is also served by MUNI bus lines.
A visitor center, the Lands End Lookout, is located on site. There are also wheelchair-accessible trails available.
Before you go
- Check MUNI bus schedules for public transit options.
- Confirm operating hours for the Lands End Lookout visitor center.
- Plan your route using the Coastal Trail or El Camino Del Mar Trail.
- Remember to stay on the marked trails and away from cliff edges.
- Note that some trails are wheelchair-accessible.
Nearby options: running and active spots in San Francisco. All cities: City running and hiking guides.