San Francisco Urban Hike: Coit Tower, Lombard Street and North Beach

Explore San Francisco’s iconic landmarks on the Urban Hike. This challenging 3-hour tour takes you through Coit Tower, Lombard Street, and the vibrant North Beach neighborhood. Starting at Levi’s Plaza Park, you’ll tackle steep staircases and enjoy breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Discover the rich cultural heritage of North Beach, complete with historic cafes and bookstores, while your knowledgeable guide shares fascinating insights about the city’s history and pop culture. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time visitor, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of San Francisco.

This experience made our list of the 4 Best Treks And Hiking Tours In San Francisco.

Good To Know

• The 3-hour urban hike covers 5 miles and includes iconic landmarks like Coit Tower, Lombard Street, and the cultural hub of North Beach.
• The strenuous hike involves navigating numerous staircases and is not suitable for those with serious medical conditions or young children.
• Highlights of the tour include panoramic city views from Coit Tower, the experience of navigating the crooked Lombard Street, and exploring the historic Italian neighborhood of North Beach.
• The tour is highly recommended by previous travelers and provides local insights and history from the knowledgeable tour guide.
• The tour is priced at $54.00 and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the hike, subject to availability and minimum participant numbers.

Overview of the Urban Hike

The San Francisco Urban Hike is a 3-hour, 5-mile walking tour that leads adventurous travelers through the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

With a strenuous difficulty rating, the hike involves climbing numerous staircases, making it suitable for fit individuals. Recommended by 100% of travelers, the tour departs from Levis Plaza Park and offers morning or afternoon options.

Travelers will explore the art deco Coit Tower, the crooked Lombard Street, and the historic North Beach neighborhood, as well as lesser-known gems like Jack Early Park and Macondray Lane.

The tour guide provides insights into the city’s history and pop culture, creating an engaging and informative experience.

Key Attractions and Landmarks

Along the San Francisco Urban Hike, travelers frequently encounter the iconic Coit Tower, a 210-foot-tall art deco monument that offers panoramic views of the city, the Golden Gate and Bay bridges, and Lombard Street, known as the crookedest street in the world.

The hike also takes participants through North Beach, San Francisco’s Italian neighborhood with a rich cultural history.

Hikers will also discover hidden gems like Jack Early Park, which boasts stunning views of Alcatraz and Pier 39, as well as Macondray Lane, which inspired the setting for Armistead Maupin’s acclaimed novels.

Hiking Experience

Hikers begin the San Francisco Urban Hike at Levi’s Plaza Park, climbing up the Filbert Street steps along Telegraph Hill. Along the way, they may spot the famous wild parrots of Telegraph Hill.

The hike takes visitors to lesser-known cultural landmarks and scenic lookouts, where the tour guide shares local history and pop culture insights. Stops include the iconic Coit Tower and the crooked Lombard Street, as well as the vibrant North Beach neighborhood.

Throughout the tour, hikers have the opportunity to take in breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the San Francisco Bay.

The 5-mile hike is strenuous, involving numerous staircases, and isn’t recommended for those with serious medical conditions.

Practical Information

Although the San Francisco Urban Hike isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most able-bodied travelers.

The tour guide recommends wearing comfortable shoes or hiking boots and bringing water. Group size is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers.

It’s not recommended for children under 12 or those with serious medical conditions. The tour runs rain or shine, and rescheduling or refunds are available if preferred due to rain.

• Group Size: Maximum of 20 travelers
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible; not recommended for children under 12 or those with serious medical conditions
• Gear: Comfortable shoes or hiking boots recommended; bring water
• Weather Policy: Tour runs rain or shine; rescheduling or refunds available if preferred due to rain
• Price: From $54.00

Booking and Cancellation

The San Francisco Urban Hike is priced from $54.00.

Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

However, minimum numbers apply, and the tour could be canceled if there aren’t enough participants. The hike isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for children under 12 or those with serious medical conditions.

Comfortable shoes or hiking boots, as well as water, are recommended gear for this strenuous 3-hour, 5-mile urban adventure through San Francisco’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

Exploring Coit Tower

One of the iconic landmarks visited during the San Francisco Urban Hike is Coit Tower. Standing 210 feet tall, this art deco monument offers panoramic views of the city and beyond.

Hikers will climb to the top of the tower via an elevator, taking in sights like:

• The Golden Gate Bridge
• Alcatraz Island
• The Bay Bridge
• Fisherman’s Wharf
• Sweeping vistas of downtown San Francisco

The tower’s distinctive architecture and murals also provide a glimpse into the city’s history and culture.

With its strategic location atop Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower is a must-see during the Urban Hike, offering unparalleled photo opportunities and breathtaking panoramas.

Navigating Lombard Street

After conquering the Filbert Street steps, hikers make their way to the iconic Lombard Street, known as the "crookedest street in the world."

This winding, steep stretch of road requires a strenuous climb, but the effort is rewarded with stunning views of the city’s famous hills and iconic architecture.

Navigating the tight turns and steep incline of Lombard Street is a highlight of the urban hike, as hikers weave their way down the curvy road.

The challenge is well worth it, offering a unique perspective of San Francisco’s charming neighborhoods and a chance to experience one of the city’s most famous landmarks up close.

Discovering North Beach

From the iconic Lombard Street, the urban hike moves on to explore North Beach, San Francisco’s vibrant Italian neighborhood.

Famed for its lively cafes, eclectic boutiques, and rich cultural heritage, North Beach offers a delightful respite from the city’s famous landmarks.

Visitors can discover:

• The iconic Washington Square Park, surrounded by historic churches and Italian restaurants
• City Lights Bookstore, a legendary independent bookshop and hub of the Beat Generation
• Caffe Trieste, a beloved coffee shop that has been a gathering place for writers and artists since 1956
• The Beat Museum, celebrating the counterculture movement of the 1950s and 60s
• The SS Peter and Paul Church, with its distinctive green dome that has become a neighborhood landmark.

Things To Known

Are Dogs Allowed on the Urban Hike?

The tour does not allow dogs. It’s not wheelchair-accessible and not recommended for children under 12 or those with serious medical conditions due to the strenuous nature of the hike.

How Long Will the Total Walking Time Be?

The total walking time for the urban hike is approximately 3 hours. The hike covers a distance of 5 miles and involves climbing numerous staircases, so it’s considered a strenuous activity.

Can Participants Take Photos During the Tour?

Participants are encouraged to take photos during the tour, as it offers many scenic landmarks and city views. However, they should be mindful not to disrupt the group or block the path while doing so.

Are There Restrooms Available Along the Route?

Restrooms are available along the route, though options may be limited. Participants are advised to plan ahead and utilize facilities at the start and end of the tour, as well as at major stops like Coit Tower.

Is Water Provided by the Tour Company?

The tour company doesn’t provide water, but it’s recommended to bring your own. Staying hydrated is crucial during the strenuous hike, which involves climbing numerous staircases.

Sum Up

The San Francisco Urban Hike offers an exhilarating way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks. From the stunning views at Coit Tower to the winding Lombard Street and the vibrant North Beach neighborhood, this tour provides an immersive experience that showcases San Francisco’s rich history and culture. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this challenging yet rewarding hike is a must-do activity for anyone seeking to discover the best of the City by the Bay.