Hiking may be one of the best forms of exercise—what could be better than enjoying a stunning view while climbing your way through the great outdoors? There’s also no feeling quite like standing at the top of a mountain peak, knowing you’ve conquered the hard part. Luckily, if you’re a Berkeley resident, there are hiking options galore in your city. We’ve rounded up the most breathtaking hiking destinations in Berkeley.

Grizzly Peak

View from Grizzly Peak

Don’t want to leave your car? Grizzly Peak is one hike that you can drive up, but be prepared for the twists and turns you’ll encounter as you head up the winding road to the peak. Deep in the Berkeley Hills, this little peak is one of the most popular in the city. No matter what time of day or night it is, you’re guaranteed fantastic vistas. On a clear day, a hike up Grizzly Peak offers a great view of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay Bridge, and the Oakland Hills. In the early evening, stop by to catch a glimpse of the sun setting over the water. At night, you can enjoy the sparkling city lights scattered around the San Francisco Bay Area. 

Berkeley Fire Trails

To feel like you’re at one with the trees, stop by Berkeley Fire Trails, located in the Oakland Hills. The paved main trail, ideal for strolling and running, is accessible from UC Berkeley’s Space Sciences Lab and also from in between Strawberry Canyon and the UC Botanical Garden on Centennial Drive, so you can expect to see quite a few Golden Bears during your hike. Admire the lush greenery, the endless stretches of evergreens, and the stunning views as you trek your way to the top. There are also other trails that offer more of a challenge, thanks to steeper inclines.

The Big C

The Big C photo courtesy of Gomfbears

For a hike that’s definitely Instagram-worthy, trek up The Big C. If you’re not feeling up to a long hike or if you’re short on time, this quick hike is still totally doable—the road to the peak is fast and easy. College students from nearby UC Berkeley often come for picnics, and families stop by to soak up the sun or even have a mini photo-shoot. After all, the views of Berkeley from the top are quite breathtaking.

Seaview Trail at Inspiration Point

You’ll see a wide array of natural landscapes during your hike along Seaview Trail at Inspiration Point. From vast green meadows to endless groves of evergreens and conifer-covered rolling hills, this hike has it all. There are numerous benches along the trail where you can sit and take it all in, or simply rest your legs. Although you’ll spot a lot of trees as you hike, not every stretch of the route has shade, so be sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, and lots of water if you’re attempting this hike during the hot summer months.

Indian Rock Park

Indian Rock Park photo courtesy of Burkhard Mücke

Be ready to scramble if you’re going to visit Indian Rock Park. The rocky hike at Indian Rock Park will require some careful climbing—you may even run into some rock climbers practicing here—but the views are totally worth it. You’ll be able to spot many major Bay Area landmarks on this hike, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Coit Tower, Angel Island, Mount Tamalpais, the Salesforce Tower, and more. So if you don’t have time to visit all these destinations during your Bay Area staycation, rest assured that you’ll be able to see them all, and then some, on this one hike.