Twin Peaks

Most visitors take in sweeping vistas from the scenic overlook, but it's also possible to follow short trails up the two hills of Twin Peaks—South Peak and North Peak—for unobstructed views. Many San Francisco city tours include a stop at Twin Peaks for photo ops, while some half-day tours combine a visit here with other Bay Area landmarks, such as Muir Woods and Sausalito, or with a bay cruise. For an insider's view, consider an urban hiking tour that also takes in some of the city's lesser-known stairways and hills.

• Restrooms and a parking lot are available.

• The scenic overlook in the North Peak parking lot is wheelchair accessible.

• Bring layers, as you may feel strong winds standing at the second-highest point in San Francisco.

• Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to explore any of the hiking trails in the 64-acre park.

Twin Peaks is located in a residential area of central San Francisco, about a 30-minute drive southwest of downtown. Unless you're on a city tour, it takes a special trip to get here; you won't just pass by on your way to other attractions. Drive up Twin Peaks Boulevard from either Clarendon Avenue or Portola Drive, or take a cab or rideshare vehicle.

The park is open daily from early morning to midnight. For extra-special views, go during sunrise or sunset. In the summer, it can be difficult to avoid the city's fog; aim for late afternoon for your best chance of clear photos if you're visiting during this time.

The two closest neighborhoods to Twin Peaks that are popular with San Francisco visitors are Haight-Ashbury and the Castro. Plan your sightseeing adventures so you can also explore these two districts, both known for their seminal roles in San Francisco's countercultural history.

Yes, Twin Peaks in San Francisco is worth visiting. A 10-minute drive from the Castro District, the two hills rising about 922 feet (281 meters) above the city offer some of the best views of San Francisco and the Bay Area. It's also a stop on the 49-Mile Scenic Drive.

Reaching Twin Peaks in San Francisco on foot is no walk in the park—but the hike ends with expansive views of the city. From Market and Castro streets in the heart of the Castro District—a common starting point—it's about 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) uphill and takes 30–45 minutes.

Early mornings (unless there's fog) and right before sunset are the best times to visit Twin Peaks in San Francisco. Visiting after dark—the park is open until midnight throughout the year—when the views glow with city lights across the bay is second-best. Just make sure you bring a jacket.

No, you do not need to book in advance to visit Twin Peaks in San Francisco. In fact, you don’t need Twin Peaks tickets at all—the hills lie in a public park that’s open every day of the year from 5am to 12am. Visitors can freely visit without entrance fees or reservations.

Twin Peaks in San Francisco is a public park and does not organize tours. However, various guided tours in San Francisco include a visit to Twin Peaks as part of the itinerary—these include city sightseeing tours, self-guided go-cart tours, walking and urban hiking tours, and private tours with customizable itineraries.

Yes, there are bathrooms near Twin Peaks in San Francisco. Public restrooms are on the southern end of the Christmas Tree Lights viewpoint parking lot on Christmas Tree Point Road. There are also public restrooms on Johnstone Drive near the Sutro Reservoir and the Sutro Heights East Ridge Trailhead.