Senior Hikers Discover California Trail



Let’s Take a Hike, Seniors

I recently read that Coastal Trail at Land’s End was one of the best hiking trails in the county. So, you senior hikers, boot up.  Lands End in San Francisco has scenery with awesome views of the coastal inlet on every step of this Golden Gate National Recreation Area. It’s one of the favorite trails for folks who just enjoy walking.

At every turn of the trail on this wild and rocky northwestern corner of San Francisco, there is another stunning view. Along the way seniors will see hillsides of cypress and wildflowers, views of old shipwrecks, access to the epic ruins of Sutro Baths, pocket beaches, and a new Lookout Visitor Center.

As you hike you can thank community volunteers all along the trail who have helped revitalize and restore the trail and the native habitat. Note the bird and map link on this site.

Seniors Start the Hike at Ocean Beach

The trail begins near Ocean Beach and winds its way north and east along the ocean bluffs to China and Baker beaches. In its entirety, Coastal Trail is 11 miles long, although it’s not contiguous. The favorite stretch for many senior hikers is a 3.5-mile round-trip that follows the most “wilderness-like” section from above the Cliff House Restaurant to 32nd Avenue and El Camino del Mar. At least for a while, you’ll forget you’re anywhere near a major metropolitan area.

Folks ask all the time what the wildest place in San Francisco is.  For many it’s Coastal Trail. The ocean views from the Merrie Way trailhead are a satisfying first impression. As senior citizens lace up the hiking boots, watch for a Golden Gate-bound freighter or the spout of a gray whale, and lend an ear to the chorus of barking sea lions.

The Land’s End trail is an easy to moderate hike — depending on how far you walk. If you do the three-mile round trip from Point Lobos to Eagles’ Point, you can meander past the Sutro Baths, the Legion of Honor, and along cliffs with beautiful views of the Marin Headlands and the Golden Gate Bridge.  Runners who make the trek often note that it is a great running trail.

Happy Hiking!  jeb

1 comment to “Senior Hikers Discover California Trail”

  1. iherb.com says:

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