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Kenwood Today
By the People, for the People
Climb the Bay Area's Tallest Mountains on These 8 Hikes
From 2,463-foot-tall Sonoma Mountain to 4,342-foot-tall Mount Saint Helena, these challenging hikes offer stunning views and a serious workout.
Published on Feb. 26, 2026
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Sick of crowded studio classes and repetitive fitness machines? Switch up your workout without sacrificing any of its intensity with a climb up the Bay Area's tallest hikeable peaks. This article highlights 8 hikes to the highest points in the region, including Mount Saint Helena in Calistoga, Mount Diablo in Walnut Creek, Mount Umunhum in Los Gatos, Mount Sizer in Morgan Hill, Hood Mountain in Kenwood, Mount Tamalpais in Mill Valley, Mission Peak in Fremont, and Sonoma Mountain in Glen Ellen.
Why it matters
Hiking the Bay Area's tallest peaks provides an intense workout and stunning views that can't be replicated in a gym. These hikes offer a unique way for locals and visitors to explore the region's natural beauty and challenge themselves physically.
The details
The hikes range from 5.8 miles to 15.2 miles in length, with elevation gains up to 4,250 feet. Each trail features its own distinct landscapes, from pygmy forests to dramatic rock faces to blooming wildflowers. Many of the hikes are located within state and regional parks, providing access to interactive visitor centers and other amenities.
- The hikes are best tackled in the cooler months, as the summer heat can make them unbearable.
- The wildflowers on Mount Sizer are at their peak in the spring.
The players
Robert Louis Stevenson State Park
The state park where the hike up Mount Saint Helena is located.
Mount Diablo State Park
The state park that contains the hike up Mount Diablo.
Sugarloaf Ridge State Park
The state park that borders the trailhead for the hike up Hood Mountain.
Mission Peak Regional Preserve
The regional park where the hike up Mission Peak is located.
Jack London State Historic Park
The state historic park where the hike up Sonoma Mountain originates.
What they’re saying
“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”
— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)
The takeaway
Hiking the Bay Area's tallest peaks provides an unparalleled workout and the chance to experience the region's natural beauty up close. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking to switch up your fitness routine, these challenging trails offer stunning views and a sense of accomplishment that can't be found in a gym.
