Explore Telegraph Hill and Old Waterfront in San Francisco
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, including beginners comfortable with urban walking and some stairs.
Overview
Experience San Francisco’s hidden gardens, historic murals, and scenic waterfront on a unique three-hour urban hike. Explore the city’s captivating side beyond the usual tourist spots.
Telegraph Hill and Old Waterfront
For all ages! • 3 Hours • 4 mi / 6.4 km
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About This Adventure
Experience San Francisco like a local on this captivating three-hour urban hike. Discover hidden gardens, historic murals at Coit Tower, and the birthplace of blue jeans at Levi Plaza. Enjoy stunning views of the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge while exploring the vibrant Ferry Building Marketplace, filled with delicious treats.
Discover the City by the Bay like a local!
Duration
3 Hours
About
Take a secret passage to the landmark Telegraph Hill, enjoy crisp views of the waterfront, explore the history of the Embarcadero, and smell the lush greenery that wraps around the winding, wooden Filbert Stairs at Telegraph Hill. Reach the summit and listen to local history at Coit Tower, a San Francisco landmark in Pioneer Park. Beyond the tower a hidden garden awaits, offering spectacular views of the Bay, Golden Gate Bridge, and infamous Alcatraz Island.
Descend the masonry of the Greenwich Street steps to Levi Plaza, the headquarters of blue jeans, and visit Green Street Laboratory, where Philo Farnsworth sent the first television transmission. Can you believe the first image on TV was a dollar sign?
Following the breeze of the Old Waterfront, we’ll head to the coast. I’ll share pictures of the old days, when three-mast ships bustled along Yerba Buena Cove during San Francisco’s construction. Today, the Embarcadero waterfront hosts attractions like the Ferry Building––Our starting and ending point for this four-mile urban hike.
Don’t forget to grab a treat from one of the Ferry Building’s 100+ vendors!
Highlights include:
The Ferry Building Marketplace A Local’s Tour of Secret Gardens Historic Murals of Coit Tower Levi Plaza––the Birthplace of Blue Jeans!
More info
Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 4 mi / 6.4 km Hill Count: 2 Stair steps: 562 Max Elevation: 429ft /67m Min Elevation: -18ft /-13m
Adventure Tips
Wear Comfortable Footwear
The hike includes paved and uneven paths; sturdy shoes will ensure comfort.
Bring a Light Jacket
San Francisco’s weather can change quickly, especially near the waterfront.
Stay Hydrated
Carry a water bottle to keep refreshed during the three-hour walk.
Plan for Photo Breaks
Stop at Coit Tower and Levi Plaza for great views and memorable photos.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Western gulls
- California scrub jays
History
Telegraph Hill was an important communication point in the 19th century, and Levi Plaza marks the creation of the world's first blue jeans by Levi Strauss.
Conservation
Local efforts focus on maintaining native plants in surrounding gardens and promoting sustainable tourism to protect San Francisco's urban green spaces.
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Adventure Hotspots in San Francisco
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Supportive footwear ensures comfort on mixed terrain and stairs.
Light Waterproof Jacket
Protects against spring rains and cool bay breezes.
spring specific
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the three-hour hike.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the iconic murals, city views, and waterfront scenery.