The best walks and hikes in Angel Island State Park
4.7
(442)
11,214
hikers
12
hikes
Hiking in Angel Island State Park offers routes across an island in the San Francisco Bay. The terrain is characterized by rolling hills, forested ridges, and coastal paths with views of the bay, the San Francisco skyline, and the Golden Gate Bridge. The island's highest point is the 788-foot (240 m) summit of Mount Caroline Livermore, which is accessible via several trails.
Best hiking trails in Angel Island State Park
- The most popular hiking route is North Ridge and Sunset loop β Angel Island State Park, a 5.2 mile (8.3 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 25 minutes to complete. This route ascends toward the island's summit before descending along the western slopes.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Perimeter Road loop β Angel Island State Park, a moderate 4.9 mile (8.0 km) path. This hike follows the paved road around the island, providing access to historical sites and multiple viewpoints.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Sunset Trail lookout β Sunrise Site loop from Belvedere, a 5.3 mile (8.5 km) trail leading through the island's varied landscape, often completed in about 2 hours 30 minutes.
- Hiking in Angel Island State Park is defined by its mix of paved perimeter roads, dirt singletrack, and grassy slopes. The trail network provides options for different ability levels, from gentle circuits to more moderate ascents.
- The routes in Angel Island State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 350 reviews. More than 8,900 hikers have used komoot to explore Angel Island State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
5.0
(8)
29
hikers
22.0km
06:21
540m
550m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(12)
132
hikers
8.29km
02:23
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(6)
103
hikers
7.95km
02:18
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(8)
39
hikers
8.61km
02:32
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
24
hikers
6.97km
02:05
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The abandoned army church at Fort McDowell provides a striking window into the regionβs history and its role in past military life.
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Here you have the opportunity to witness some absolutely wonderful views of the San Francisco Bay!
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You can get some incredible views while walking or biking the Perimeter Road on Angel Island. This is a sterling example, as you can see the entire span of the Golden Gate Bridge from here.
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While navigating the switchbacks here on Sunset Trail, enjoy rewarding views of Golden Gate, Richardson Bay, and Tiburon. The best views are on the corners of the switchbacks, and on some corners there are little wooden benches to sit on and take a break.
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The Angel Island Ferry Landing in Ayala Cove offers regular passenger ferry service to Tiburon and San Francisco. The Angel Island to Tiburon Ferry provides a 15-minute crossing of the Racoon Strait to the Tiburon Ferry Terminal. The island is car-free, providing safe trails to hikers and bikers. Unlike the Tiburon and Sausalito ferry piers, private boats can moor at Ayala Cove Pier under Angel Island State Park's rules. Late in the day, lines can grow long, and on busy dates, visitors may be left waiting at the pier when the ferry reaches capacity.
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This station functioned as both an immigration and deportation facility, detaining large numbers of Chinese and Japanese immigrants under oppressive conditions, generally from two weeks to six months, before being allowed to enter the United States.
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Excellent remote primitive tent-only campground, pre-booking required. 3 sites, all year, all ages, 34 ft elev, tables, grill, water, toilets, fish, trail, hike, primitive. Campsite #7 is in the Sunrise site on the east side of the island with sweeping views of Berkeley, Oakland and the Bay Bridge. It is grouped with Campsites #8 and #9, each of which has its own picnic table, charcoal grill and food locker. The Sunrise sites share an outhouse and water spigot with drinking water.
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This island is the largest in San Francisco Bay, with a long history. It has been a hunting and gathering location for the local native tribes, a haven and supply stop for Spanish explorers, a cattle ranch, a place to process hundreds of thousands of immigrants, and a refuge for the military dating back to the Civil War era, up to the 1960s. The island's transition into a California State Park took over to protect the remains of the former immigration and quarantine stations, as well as military defense installations, and allow visitors to enjoy this beautiful hidden gem surrounded by the urban Bay area. Ayala Cove is the landing area for Angel Island State Park and is only accessible by ferry. It is a passage from Tiburon or a longer ride from San Francisco. From here, the entire island is car-free and reserved for hikers and bikers to explore this fantastic island.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Angel Island State Park?
Access to the island is exclusively by ferry. Public ferries run from San Francisco and Tiburon. It's best to check the current timetables for the Angel Island-Tiburon Ferry or the San Francisco Bay Ferry services before you travel, as schedules can vary seasonally.
How long does it take to hike around the entire island?
The hike around the island on the paved Perimeter Road is approximately 5 miles (8 km). For most hikers, this takes about 2 to 2.5 hours to complete, not including stops to enjoy the views or visit historical sites along the way.
Are there any easy hikes suitable for families or beginners?
Yes, the island offers several easier options. The paved Perimeter Road is relatively flat and provides a straightforward walk with continuous bay views. For a slightly more varied but still manageable experience, you could try a route like the Hiking loop from Belvedere, which offers a good introduction to the island's trails without a major climb.
What are the best trails for views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco?
For some of the most rewarding panoramic views, take a trail that leads toward the summit of Mount Caroline Livermore. The western and southern slopes of the island offer the best vantage points. The North Ridge and Sunset loop is specifically known for its stunning vistas of the San Francisco skyline, Alcatraz, and the Golden Gate Bridge.
What historical sites can I see while hiking?
The island is rich with history. The Perimeter Road provides direct access to several key sites, including the U.S. Immigration Station (often called the "Ellis Island of the West"), and the historic military posts of Camp Reynolds and Fort McDowell, which date back to the Civil War era.
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Angel Island State Park?
No, pets are not permitted on the island. Only trained service animals are allowed, so it's best to leave your dog at home when planning a hiking trip here.
Can I camp on Angel Island?
Yes, camping is one of the unique experiences the park offers. There are a limited number of campsites available, which provide an opportunity to enjoy the island's tranquility after the last ferry has departed. Reservations are required and should be made well in advance, as they are very popular.
What should I pack for a day hike on the island?
It's essential to dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly from foggy and cool to warm and sunny. Be sure to bring sturdy walking shoes, plenty of water, and snacks, as services on the island are limited and can be seasonal. Sunscreen and a hat are also highly recommended.
Are bicycles allowed on the hiking trails?
Bicycles are welcome on the main paved roads, such as the Perimeter Road. However, they are not permitted on the narrower, unpaved hiking trails like the Sunset Trail or North Ridge Trail to protect the natural environment and ensure hiker safety.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Angel Island State Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the unique combination of natural beauty and rich history. The 360-degree panoramic views of the entire San Francisco Bay from the island's higher elevations are a frequently mentioned highlight.
How many hiking trails are there on Angel Island?
There are over 10 designated hiking trails in Angel Island State Park. These range from easy, paved circular routes to more moderate dirt trails that climb to the island's summit, offering a variety of experiences for different fitness levels.
Most popular routes in Angel Island State Park
Most popular attractions in Angel Island State Park
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