Nearly the tallest summit in San Francisco (second only to Mount Davidson by a few feet), Twin Peaks gets accolades for being the most frequented natural area in the city. At 922 feet, this pair of summits situated near the iconic Sutro Tower draws both locals and tourists for its sweeping vistas of downtown San Francisco and beyond. The topography of the adjacent and symmetrical peaks inspired the name "Los Pechos de la Choca," or "Breasts of the Maiden," by Spanish settlers.
The park’s main draw is its Christmas Tree Point viewing area, where buses drop hordes of folks to take in the sights on clear weekend days. Beyond this small portion of the park is a network of trails that explore the native hilltop habitat consisting of chaparral and grasslands, habitat that still supports a diversity of wildlife from coyotes to the endangered Mission blue butterfly. An undulating trail traverses the north and south peaks, called Eureka Peak and Noe Peak respectively, offering vistas that are equal if not superior to those from the busy nearby viewpoint.
While most visitors drive to Twin Peaks, trails offer hiking access to the parks connecting the Twin Peaks neighborhood via Crestline Drive to the east, and a Creeks to Peaks Trail connects Glenn Canyon Park to the south. Dress for windy conditions at the summit. If you are visiting during the spring or summer, keep in mind that the peaks are often enshrouded in a blanket of fog.
A small parking area is located adjacent to the Christmas Tree Point viewing area. Alternatively, look for parking along Crestline Drive and hike up to the summit.
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