Visible for miles, the Park’s namesake summit is an iconic part of the peninsula’s horizon. The 1,314’-high peak can be reached by foot or by vehicle, and visitors enjoy sweeping 360° panoramic views of the entire Bay Area. At the northern end of the Santa Cruz Mountain range, this rugged 2,416-acre park is a popular hiking destination. Its steep slopes and deep valleys provide habitat for an incredibly diverse array of plants and wildlife. The area was for decades the focus of battles between developers who wished to build housing on the mountain and environmentalists who recognized the area’s biological significance. Jointly purchased by the County and the State, the Park is managed by the San Mateo County Department of Parks. San Bruno Mountain borders Daly City, Brisbane, South San Francisco, and Colma, and is easily accessible from highways 280 and 101.
Hiking is the most popular activity in the Park. Primary trailheads are at the park entrance, trailhead parking lot, and the summit. The Park includes approximately 12 miles of trails. Some trails are open to cyclists and equestrians; check the map for trail use. Views from the Park are stunning. By driving to the summit on Radio Road, you can look north to Mount Tamalpais, east to Mount Diablo, and west to the Farallon Islands. Near the park entrance are a number of drop-in picnic sites with tables, barbeque pits, drinking water, and restrooms. The nearby meadow is popular for volleyball and kite-flying. The Edward Bacciocco, Jr. Youth Camp area may be reserved for groups of up to 200 people.