Mount Davidson: Highest Point Hike in San Francisco

Standing at 928 feet above sea level, Mount Davidson holds the distinction of being San Francisco’s highest natural point—a fact that surprises many visitors who assume Twin Peaks claims that title. This wooded urban oasis offers something completely different from the city’s more famous hiking destinations: peaceful eucalyptus groves, serene forest trails, and sweeping panoramic views that feel more intimate and discovered than the crowds at other scenic overlooks.

What makes Mount Davidson particularly appealing is how it combines accessibility with genuine reward—the short and manageable 0.9-mile loop trail can be completed in 30-45 minutes, yet delivers both the satisfaction of reaching San Francisco’s highest summit and the unexpected tranquility of hiking through fragrant eucalyptus forest just minutes from busy city streets. The 103-foot concrete cross that crowns the summit adds historical significance and serves as a distinctive landmark visible from many parts of the city.

This hike is also featured in our Best Hiking Trails Near San Francisco for Day Hikers guide, which highlights the city’s top outdoor escapes that showcase San Francisco’s remarkable diversity of hiking experiences, from coastal cliffs to urban summits to hidden forest walks like this one.

Even for relatively short urban hikes like Mount Davidson, having sturdy shoes that can handle potentially muddy trails and a light daypack for carrying water, snacks, and perhaps an extra layer can make the experience significantly more enjoyable—especially since the eucalyptus groves create their own microclimate that can be cooler and damper than the surrounding neighborhoods.

Why Hike Mount Davidson?

As the city’s highest peak at 928 feet elevation, Mount Davidson offers the unique satisfaction of standing at San Francisco’s **literal high point** while experiencing panoramic views that many locals have never discovered. Unlike the more touristy viewpoints around the city, Mount Davidson provides vistas that feel more exclusive and personal, partly because the forest setting frames the views rather than offering completely open 360-degree panoramas.

The unique mix of **eucalyptus forest and open summit with panoramic views** creates a hiking experience unlike anywhere else in San Francisco. The approach through dense, fragrant eucalyptus groves feels almost mystical, especially on foggy days when the trees create a natural cathedral that muffles city sounds and transforms the hike into something that feels far removed from urban life. Then you emerge at the summit to discover sweeping views that stretch from downtown San Francisco to the Pacific Ocean.

The **historic landmark** of the 103-foot Mount Davidson Cross adds cultural and spiritual significance that enriches the hiking experience. Originally built in 1923 for Easter sunrise services that drew over 5,000 attendees, the current concrete cross was dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1934 and continues to serve as the site for annual Easter celebrations and Armenian Genocide memorial events. The cross itself is an impressive engineering feat, illuminated on special occasions and visible from many parts of San Francisco.

Easy access makes this a perfect quick escape for both locals looking for a peaceful morning walk and visitors wanting to experience San Francisco’s natural side without committing to longer, more strenuous hikes. The multiple entrance points around the residential neighborhoods mean you can easily incorporate Mount Davidson into other city explorations or use it as a peaceful break from tourist attractions.

Quick Trail Snapshot

Trail Overview – What to Expect

Starting Point & Access

The main trailhead on Dalewood Way (around 39 Dalewood Way) provides the most straightforward access to Mount Davidson’s trail system. You’ll find a gate that blocks vehicle access to the wide dirt fire road, but walkers can easily enter and begin the gentle uphill walk toward the summit. The official starting point sits near the intersection of several residential streets including Myra, Sherwood, Lansdale, and Dalewood, offering multiple parking options depending on where you find available street spaces.

Limited signage throughout the park means it’s smart to download a trail map in advance, especially if you want to explore some of the narrower paths and old stone stairs that branch off from the main fire road. The park covers 40 acres with various trails to explore, so having a map ensures you won’t miss interesting detours or have trouble finding your way back to your starting point.

Using AllTrails Pro or similar offline mapping apps ensures you don’t miss the summit path or any of the scenic viewpoints along the way. The trails can intersect in ways that aren’t immediately obvious, and having reliable navigation helps you make the most of your time on the mountain.

Eucalyptus Groves

The shaded, serene, and fragrant eucalyptus forest that covers much of Mount Davidson creates an almost otherworldly hiking experience, especially on foggy days when the towering trees disappear into the mist above. These non-native eucalyptus trees were originally planted by Adolph Sutro in the late 1800s as part of his vision to transform San Francisco’s sand dunes into a forested landscape. Today, they create a dense canopy that provides year-round shade and a peaceful atmosphere that feels remarkably removed from the urban environment surrounding the park.

The forest environment makes Mount Davidson excellent for birdwatching, with various species taking advantage of the sheltered habitat. You might spot everything from common city birds like ravens and scrub jays to more unexpected species that appreciate the forest environment. The dense tree cover also creates excellent acoustics for birdsong, adding to the serene atmosphere of the hike.

Lightweight hiking shoes work particularly well here since the trails through the eucalyptus groves can become muddy, especially during San Francisco’s winter rainy season or when morning fog creates damp conditions. The combination of eucalyptus leaf litter and occasional moisture can make some sections slippery, so having shoes with decent grip makes the experience safer and more comfortable.

Summit Cross

The 103-foot concrete cross that crowns Mount Davidson represents over a century of San Francisco’s spiritual and cultural history. The current cross, built with $1 donations during the Great Depression, was officially dedicated by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1934 when he pressed a golden telegraph key in Washington D.C. to illuminate the cross before an audience of 50,000 attendees. This dramatic dedication ceremony demonstrates just how significant this landmark was to San Francisco’s identity during the 1930s.

The cross serves as the site for memorial events and Easter sunrise services that continue a tradition dating back to 1923. The annual Easter celebration, now in its 102nd year, brings together thousands of worshippers from across the Bay Area for a non-denominational service that begins at dawn. The cross is also illuminated on April 24th for Armenian Genocide Memorial Day, reflecting its current ownership by the Council of Armenian-American Organizations of Northern California, who purchased it from the city in 1997.

Beyond its historical significance, the cross area provides excellent photo opportunities and serves as the natural summit destination where you can appreciate both the landmark itself and the panoramic views it overlooks. The contrast between the massive concrete structure and the natural forest setting creates striking visual compositions for photographers.

Panoramic Views

From Mount Davidson’s summit, you’ll enjoy downtown skyline views, Twin Peaks, and on clear days, glimpses of the Pacific Ocean that showcase San Francisco’s geographic diversity. The views differ significantly from those at Twin Peaks or other popular viewpoints because they’re framed by eucalyptus trees and offer a more southeastern perspective on the city. You can see the entire downtown skyline, the distinctive silhouettes of nearby hills including Twin Peaks and Mount Sutro, and on exceptionally clear days, views extending to the San Mateo mountains and East Bay hills.

Weather conditions dramatically affect the viewing experience—on foggy days, Mount Davidson transforms into what feels like a mystical cloud forest with limited visibility but incredible atmosphere, while clear days reveal sweeping vistas that remind you why San Francisco is considered one of the world’s most beautiful cities. The fog can roll in and out rapidly, sometimes creating the magical experience of watching your surroundings disappear and reappear in the mist.

For another short hike with stunning city views but a completely different exposure and perspective, check out the Twin Peaks hike, which offers those classic 360-degree panoramic views from exposed grassland rather than Mount Davidson’s forested summit setting.

Best Time to Visit Mount Davidson

Morning visits offer the most peaceful experience with fewer crowds and often the clearest air quality for views. Early morning light filtering through the eucalyptus groves creates particularly beautiful photographic conditions, and you’re more likely to have the trails largely to yourself, enhancing the sense of peaceful escape from city life.

Spring brings wildflowers that add seasonal color to the forest understory and create additional photography opportunities throughout the park. While the eucalyptus trees provide year-round greenery, spring blooms add variety and remind you that this urban forest supports diverse plant communities beyond the dominant eucalyptus canopy.

Summer and fall deliver foggy but atmospheric conditions that transform Mount Davidson into something that feels more like hiking through a Pacific Northwest cloud forest than an urban park. The fog creates dramatic and moody conditions that many photographers actually prefer to clear weather, though visibility can be quite limited. These seasonal fog patterns also keep temperatures comfortable for hiking even during San Francisco’s warmest months.

Bring layers regardless of when you visit—fog and wind are common even on sunny days at Mount Davidson’s elevation, and the eucalyptus forest creates its own microclimate that can be significantly cooler and damper than the surrounding neighborhoods.

Tips for Hiking Mount Davidson

• Wear sturdy shoes that can handle potentially muddy or slippery conditions, especially in the eucalyptus groves where fallen leaves and occasional moisture can create slick surfaces. While the main fire road is generally well-maintained, some of the narrower trails and stone steps can be uneven, so having footwear with decent grip makes the experience safer and more comfortable.
• Bring water and a snack since there are no facilities within the park itself, and the peaceful forest setting makes it ideal for a contemplative break or impromptu picnic at the summit. The combination of fresh air, forest atmosphere, and city views creates perfect conditions for taking your time and enjoying the experience rather than rushing through.
• Parking is limited to street spaces in the surrounding residential neighborhoods, so arriving early—especially on weekends—improves your chances of finding convenient parking near your preferred entrance. Check parking signs carefully and be respectful of residents by not blocking driveways or parking in clearly marked residential-only areas.
• Download offline maps from apps like AllTrails Pro to help navigate the various trail options and ensure you don’t miss interesting detours or viewpoints. While the main route to the summit is straightforward, Mount Davidson contains numerous smaller paths, old stone staircases, and scenic spots that are easy to miss without proper navigation tools.
• Mount Davidson is ideal for a quick hike or picnic at the summit, making it perfect for those times when you want outdoor adventure without committing to a full day of hiking. The combination of accessibility and reward makes it an excellent choice for morning exercise, peaceful lunch breaks, or sunset viewing sessions.

Gear Checklist for Mount Davidson

• Daypack: A lightweight pack for carrying water, snacks, and an extra layer works perfectly for this short hike while keeping your hands free for navigating trails and taking photos. The peaceful summit area is ideal for spending extra time, so having supplies available enhances the experience.
• Lightweight hiking shoes: Shoes with good tread that can handle both the main dirt fire road and potentially muddy or slippery sections in the eucalyptus groves. The varied terrain requires more than casual sneakers but doesn’t demand heavy hiking boots.
• Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is important even on shorter hikes, and the peaceful forest setting invites taking your time and enjoying rest stops along the way.
• Windbreaker or light jacket: The eucalyptus forest and elevated position can create cooler conditions than street level, and San Francisco’s changeable weather means being prepared for temperature shifts or fog rolling in.
• Compact binoculars or tripod: The wildlife viewing opportunities in the forest and distant city views from the summit are enhanced with a little magnification or camera stabilization. The peaceful atmosphere also makes this an excellent location for bird watching or contemplative photography.

Getting to Mount Davidson

By Car: The most convenient trailhead access is on Dalewood Way near the intersection with Myra, Sherwood, and Lansdale. Street parking is available in the surrounding residential neighborhoods, though spaces can be limited on weekends. The roads leading to Mount Davidson are narrow and winding, requiring careful driving and occasional pulling aside to let other cars pass.

By Public Transit: The Muni 36 Teresita line stops at the Dalewood Way and Myra Way entrance to the park, providing convenient access without parking concerns. The 43 Masonic line also serves nearby stops, though with a slightly longer walk to the trailhead. Public transit works particularly well for this destination since parking can be challenging.

By Bike: While possible, the steep access roads make cycling to Mount Davidson quite challenging. However, if you’re an experienced urban cyclist comfortable with San Francisco’s hills, there are bike racks available near some entrances to the park.

Accessibility notes: The park is not fully wheelchair-accessible due to narrow dirt paths, uneven terrain, and the absence of paved routes to the summit. The main fire road provides the easiest access, but it still involves significant elevation gain and unpaved surfaces that may not be suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.

Comparing Mount Davidson to Other SF Hikes

• Want 360° panoramic views with less forest cover? Try the Twin Peaks hike, which offers those classic sweeping views of San Francisco from exposed grassland rather than Mount Davidson’s forested setting. Twin Peaks provides wider open vistas but lacks the peaceful forest experience and historical significance of the cross.
• Looking for coastal cliff scenery instead of forest? Explore the Lands End Trail, which combines Golden Gate Bridge views with dramatic Pacific Ocean coastline and historic Sutro Baths ruins. It’s a completely different perspective on San Francisco’s natural beauty—ocean drama and coastal history instead of urban forest tranquility.
• Prefer a waterfront walk with Golden Gate views? Head to the Crissy Field Promenade for flat, family-friendly walking along San Francisco Bay with constant bridge views and plenty of amenities nearby. It offers the accessibility of Mount Davidson but with waterfront scenery instead of forest and summit experiences.

FAQs About Mount Davidson Hike

• Is the trail free? Yes, Mount Davidson Park is completely free to access as a San Francisco city park. While the summit cross and immediate surrounding area are privately owned by the Council of Armenian-American Organizations, the park trails and viewing areas remain open to the public at no charge.
• How long does it take to reach the summit? Allow 20-30 minutes for the walk from the main Dalewood Way entrance to the summit area. However, many hikers spend additional time exploring the various trails, enjoying the forest atmosphere, and taking in the views, making 45 minutes to an hour a more realistic timeframe for the full experience.
• Can kids do this hike? Yes, the relatively short distance and moderate difficulty make Mount Davidson suitable for families with children who can handle some uphill walking. The forest setting keeps kids engaged, and the cross provides an interesting destination that gives the hike a clear purpose and reward.
• Is it safe at night? Not recommended—the combination of uneven trails, limited lighting, and isolated forest setting creates safety concerns after dark. Additionally, the dense eucalyptus canopy blocks significant ambient light, making navigation challenging even with flashlights.
• Can you drive to the top? No, vehicle access is blocked at park entrances, and reaching the summit requires walking on foot. This foot-access-only policy helps preserve the peaceful forest atmosphere and protects the trail system from vehicle damage.

Final Thoughts on Hiking Mount Davidson

Mount Davidson offers a unique and rewarding hiking experience that combines the satisfaction of reaching San Francisco’s highest natural point with the unexpected tranquility of walking through fragrant eucalyptus forest just minutes from busy city streets. The short distance and manageable difficulty make it accessible to most hikers, while the peaceful forest setting and panoramic summit views provide genuine rewards that feel much more substantial than the modest effort required.

The combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and urban accessibility makes Mount Davidson a perfect representation of what makes San Francisco hiking so special—you can experience genuine outdoor adventure, meaningful cultural landmarks, and spectacular city views all within a single short hike that fits easily into a morning or afternoon. Whether you’re drawn by the forest serenity, the challenge of reaching the city’s highest point, or the fascinating history of the summit cross, Mount Davidson delivers an experience that feels both peaceful and accomplished.

For more hiking inspiration that showcases the incredible diversity of outdoor experiences available within San Francisco, see our Best Hiking Trails Near San Francisco for Day Hikers guide, which includes everything from coastal adventures to waterfront strolls to urban summits like this one.

For another panoramic city hike that offers wider open views from exposed grassland, try the Twin Peaks trail. For a completely different coastal adventure that combines dramatic Pacific Ocean scenery with fascinating historical sites, explore the Lands End Trail.