Twin Peaks is one of San Francisco's most iconic natural landmarks. Located in the center of the city, these two hills offer sweeping panoramic views of the city, the Bay Area, and beyond. Twin Peaks is not only a prime spot for tourists but also a favorite location for locals looking to take in breathtaking vistas of San Francisco’s skyline, Golden Gate Bridge, and surrounding areas. Whether you're a photographer, nature lover, or someone simply seeking a quiet retreat, Twin Peaks offers a peaceful escape with some of the best views in the city.
Getting to Twin Peaks is relatively easy, with several transportation options available for visitors. The hilltop can be reached by car, public transit, or on foot, depending on your preferences.
By Car: If you’re driving, the quickest way to get to Twin Peaks is by taking Market Street or the 19th Avenue to the entrance off of Crestline Drive. There’s limited parking available at the top of the hill, and the parking lot can get crowded, especially on weekends, so it's advisable to arrive early. If the parking lot is full, you can find street parking in the nearby neighborhoods, but be sure to check the parking signs to avoid any fines.
By Public Transit: Public transit is a convenient option to reach Twin Peaks. You can take the Muni bus line #37-Corbett, which will take you directly up to the park near the entrance to Twin Peaks. If you are coming from the city center or downtown area, you can easily catch the #37 bus from the Castro District or other nearby stops. The public bus system offers a cheap and efficient way to visit Twin Peaks without having to worry about parking.
By Foot: If you enjoy walking, you can hike up the hill from the surrounding neighborhoods like Glen Canyon Park or the Inner Sunset. It’s a steep walk, but the route is scenic and rewarding, especially if you're in the mood for a hike with spectacular views of the city. However, it is important to note that the paths can be quite challenging, so be prepared for a bit of exercise.
Due to its elevated position, Twin Peaks offers some of the best views in San Francisco, but it also means the weather at the top can be quite different from the city below. The peak is often windier and cooler than the rest of the city, especially in the mornings and evenings. Fog is common in San Francisco, and Twin Peaks is no exception. While you might be greeted with fog when you arrive, it usually burns off as the day progresses, offering clear views in the afternoon.
The temperature on Twin Peaks is generally cooler than the city’s average, especially during the summer months. Daytime temperatures typically range from 55°F to 65°F (13°C to 18°C), while nighttime temperatures can drop to the low 50s°F (around 10°C). In the winter, temperatures may dip to 40°F to 50°F (4°C to 10°C), and it can get chilly and windy, so it's advisable to bring layers of clothing, even during the warmer months. Be sure to bring a jacket, especially if you plan to stay later in the day when the temperatures tend to drop.
Twin Peaks is open every day of the year, and there are no official hours of operation, as it’s a natural landmark. The area is always accessible to visitors, whether you're hiking, sightseeing, or just enjoying the view. However, if you plan to visit by car, it’s important to know that the parking lot tends to be less crowded in the early morning or late afternoon, especially on weekdays. The park area can become very busy during weekends, especially when the weather is nice.
If you’re visiting for the views, it’s best to go in the late morning or early afternoon when the fog has typically cleared. However, if you enjoy seeing the city lit up at night, Twin Peaks also offers an excellent vantage point for the night-time skyline. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical times to visit as well, with the sun casting beautiful colors over the city.
Twin Peaks is famous for its unparalleled panoramic views of San Francisco and its surrounding areas. Standing at 925 feet (282 meters) above sea level, the peaks offer a breathtaking perspective of the city, including iconic landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, the Bay Bridge, and the Transamerica Pyramid. On a clear day, visitors can even spot the Farallon Islands off the coast.
Aside from its views, Twin Peaks is also famous for its role in the TV series *Twin Peaks*, which made the location even more iconic in popular culture. The TV series, directed by David Lynch, used the Twin Peaks area for several memorable shots, adding a layer of intrigue and mystery to the site. Fans of the show may recognize the setting as a key location that added to the atmosphere of the series.
Unlike other tourist attractions in San Francisco, visiting Twin Peaks is free of charge. There is no entrance fee to access the peak itself, and there are no gates or ticket booths, so visitors can freely wander around the top of the hill to enjoy the views and the open space.
The parking lot is available at the top of the peaks, but it fills up quickly on weekends, so if you’re not planning to hike, it’s best to arrive early or use public transportation to avoid the hassle of finding parking.
If you want to make the most out of your visit, bring a camera or a smartphone to capture the views, as the scenery is truly one of the highlights of San Francisco. There are also benches where you can sit and relax while taking in the sights. Many visitors bring snacks and drinks to enjoy while soaking up the atmosphere. There are no major concessions or restaurants at Twin Peaks, so it’s a good idea to bring your own food and water for a comfortable visit.
Twin Peaks has been a prominent feature of San Francisco’s landscape for centuries. Originally, the area was home to the indigenous Ohlone people, who used the hills as a lookout point. The name “Twin Peaks” comes from the two distinct hills that rise above the city. These peaks have always been a natural landmark, but it wasn’t until the late 19th century that the area began to be developed for public use.
The park surrounding Twin Peaks was designed as part of San Francisco’s citywide efforts to create more public spaces and scenic spots. Today, the area around Twin Peaks is a protected natural area, and the city has made efforts to preserve its beauty and historical significance.
In terms of architecture, there is no major development at the summit itself, as the focus is on preserving the natural landscape and providing visitors with an unspoiled view of the surrounding city and bay. The area is largely undeveloped, with only a few necessary facilities such as parking areas, viewing platforms, and paved paths.
Visiting Twin Peaks is an experience all about the views and the natural surroundings. Here are some of the best things to do during your visit: