Twin Peaks

Why go

Twin Peaks is defined by downtown towers, Market Street's axis, and the bay beyond. Another layer comes from fog spilling over the western hills and changing visibility. Plan Twin Peaks by remembering to bring a layer and skip the summit when wind or fog removes the payoff. After Twin Peaks, choose the Castro or Mission District; this keeps Twin Peaks geographically coherent and avoids forcing Twin Peaks into an unrelated crossing.

What to look for

• Look closely at downtown towers, Market Street's axis, and the bay beyond.
• Notice fog spilling over the western hills and changing visibility.

The full story

The Twin Peaks are two prominent hills with an elevation of about 925 feet located near the geographic center of San Francisco, California. Only 928 foot (283 m) Mount Davidson is higher within the city. The North and South Twin Peaks, also known as "Eureka" and "Noe" respectively, are about 200 m (660 ft) apart; Twin Peaks Boulevard runs a figure eight around them. The peaks form a divide for the summer coastal fog pushed in from the Pacific Ocean. Their west-facing slopes often get fog and strong winds, while the east-facing slopes receive more sun and warmth. Elevation at each summit is just over 900 feet (270 m). Thin, sandy soil is commonplace on Twin Peaks, making them susceptible to erosion. Before the arrival of the Europeans, the native Ohlone people may have used Twin Peaks as a lookout or hunting ground. The ecological diversity of Twin Peaks provided medicinal or ceremonial plants, grains and berries. When the Spanish conquistadors and settlers arrived at the beginning of the 18th century, they called the area "Los Pechos de la Chola" or "Breasts of the Indian Maiden" and devoted the area to ranching. When San Francisco passed under American control during the 19th century, it was renamed "Twin Peaks".

Useful to know

• For Twin Peaks, bring a layer and skip the summit when wind or fog removes the payoff.
• Pair Twin Peaks with the Castro or Mission District when the route and opening conditions align.

Your next visit

Estimated · Declared scenario and planning estimates; no live opening, weather, queue or booking service.