San Bruno Mountain State Park
Mountain recreation space featuring city & bay views, hiking trails, picnic areas & open meadows.
San Bruno Mountain State Park is rated 4.7 / 5 from 965 Google reviews and sits about 3.3 km (41 min walk) from Daly City station.
General overview
About San Bruno Mountain State Park
San Bruno Mountain State and County Park is a large open-space park just south of San Francisco, known for sweeping Bay Area views, coastal grasslands, wildflowers, wildlife, and hiking trails. The park includes San Bruno Mountain, which rises to about 1,314 feet and contains important habitat for several rare butterfly species. The information below is based on general training knowledge and has not been live-verified.
- Panoramic views of San Francisco, the Bay, the Pacific Ocean, and surrounding San Mateo County
- Hiking through coastal scrub, grassland, and seasonal wildflower areas
- Habitat for the federally endangered Mission blue butterfly and other sensitive species
- Summit and ridgeline viewpoints, especially on clear days
- Convenient location near Brisbane, Daly City, South San Francisco, and San Francisco
Things to do here
Hiking and scenic walking
Explore trails across the mountain’s grasslands and coastal habitat. Routes range from relatively easy walks to steep, exposed climbs.
San Bruno Mountain summit and ridgeline views
Higher trails provide broad views of the San Francisco skyline, Bay, airport area, Pacific coast, and Peninsula. Visibility is often best after fog clears or following rain.
Wildflower and native-habitat viewing
Spring can bring colorful displays of native plants, although bloom timing varies with rainfall and weather. Stay on designated trails to protect sensitive habitat.
Butterfly and wildlife observation
The park is notable for rare butterflies, including Mission blue butterfly habitat. Wildlife viewing is best done quietly and from trails; do not handle insects or plants.
Picnicking
Visitors can enjoy informal picnicking, but facilities are limited and conditions can be windy. Pack out all food and trash.
Use the Guadalupe Canyon Parkway entrance and follow posted signs to designated parking and trailheads. Arrive early on weekends, bring layers because the summit can be windy and foggy, and carry water because shade and drinking-water facilities are limited.
Advance reservations are generally not needed for ordinary day visits or hiking. Confirm whether reservations are required for any organized group use, picnic area, or special event.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source — verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
Photo gallery
See it before you go
Most asked
How to reach
San Bruno Mountain State Park is about 3.3 km (~41 min walk) from Daly City station on the BART (San Francisco Bay Area).
Before you go
Good to know
Verify tickets, seasonal hours, entry rules, and special events on the official website before visiting.
Pair it up
Also near this station
Cinemark Century Daly City 20 XD and IMAX
Restaurants · 6 min walk
★ 4.3
Original Joe’s Westlake
Restaurants · 19 min walk
★ 4.5
Hampton Inn San Francisco-Daly City
Hotels · 21 min walk
★ 4.4
In-N-Out Burger
Restaurants · 25 min walk
★ 4.6
Lake Merced Park
Places to visit · 33 min walk
★ 4.5
The Franciscan Park
Hotels · 39 min walk
★ 4.1
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to San Bruno Mountain State Park from Daly City station?
San Bruno Mountain State Park is about 3251 m (roughly 41 min walk) from Daly City station on the BART (San Francisco Bay Area). Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is San Bruno Mountain State Park rated?
San Bruno Mountain State Park has a Google rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 965 reviews.
What's near San Bruno Mountain State Park?
Also within a short walk of the same station: Cinemark Century Daly City 20 XD and IMAX, Original Joe’s Westlake, Hampton Inn San Francisco-Daly City.
Is San Bruno Mountain State Park wheelchair accessible?
Yes — Google lists the following accessibility features for San Bruno Mountain State Park: wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking.
Is there parking near San Bruno Mountain State Park?
Google lists these parking options near San Bruno Mountain State Park: paid parking lot, free street parking, paid street parking.
Is San Bruno Mountain State Park good for children?
Yes — Google lists San Bruno Mountain State Park as good for children.
Is San Bruno Mountain State Park free to enter?
General park access is commonly free, though parking or reserved facilities may have separate charges. Check current signs and county information.
How difficult are the hikes?
Difficulty varies. Some walks are manageable, but many routes include steep grades, uneven surfaces, little shade, and strong wind. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water.
Can I see San Francisco from the park?
Yes. On clear days, elevated trails and ridges offer views toward San Francisco, the Bay, the airport area, and the Peninsula.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring is often rewarding for greenery and wildflowers. For views, choose a clear day; mornings can be foggy, while conditions may improve later.
Are there restrooms and drinking fountains?
Facilities are limited. Restrooms may be present near developed areas, but visitors should bring their own water and should not depend on drinking fountains.
Are dogs allowed?
Dog access is area-specific and generally requires a leash where dogs are allowed. Check current trail signs because sensitive habitat may have stricter restrictions.
Can I camp overnight?
The park is generally used for day visits, and overnight camping is not normally available. Confirm current rules before planning an overnight stay.
Should I bring protection from the weather?
Yes. San Bruno Mountain can be much colder and windier than nearby lowland areas. Bring layers, sun protection, water, and rain protection when appropriate.
Is the park suitable for wheelchairs or strollers?
Only some developed areas may be suitable. Many natural-surface trails are steep or uneven, so verify accessible routes in advance.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated August 23, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change — confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.