Pace Yourself: Walks in The Bay Area

As I sit here today, I can hear the wind howling outside my window. The fog has settled over the Inner Sunset, while the rest of the City—Noe Valley, Potrero Hill, and even the Outer Sunset—are all basking in blue skies. Yes, it’s yet another classic San Francisco summer! Honestly, that’s one of the many reasons I love living here. I’m not a fan of hot weather; it makes me feel like I’m going to melt, which keeps me indoors. But the cool coastal air here? It lets me enjoy everything the City has to offer without breaking a sweat.

Of course, when I do crave some warm sunshine, there are plenty of escapes nearby. With three dogs, I’m always on the hunt for spots where they can roam free or even swim on a hot day. One of my favorites is the Sunol Regional Wilderness, part of the East Bay Regional Park District. It’s about a 45-minute drive from the City and perfect for when you need a quick nature retreat without traveling too far.

But if Sunol’s not your style, or if you’ve been there one too many times, Bay Area Hiker is a fantastic resource. Whether you’re looking for easy strolls or a full-day trek, it helps you find dog-friendly hikes across the Bay Area, categorized by difficulty level. Whether it’s a leisurely path or a more intense adventure, there’s always a perfect trail for your pace.