Two summits and a wide-open skyline
At 281 m (922 ft), Twin Peaks rises above much of central San Francisco, so even a short stop feels dramatic. Most visitors start at the north peak overlook for quick photos, then move toward quieter paths on the southern side when they want less crowd noise.
Trails, habitat, and the Mission Blue Butterfly
Beyond the overlook, the 26 ha (64 acres) natural area includes a 1.1 km (0.7 miles) trail network through coastal scrub and grassland. In 2009, conservation teams released pregnant Mission Blue Butterfly females here, and this remains the species' only surviving site inside San Francisco. Stay on marked paths so you help protect fragile habitat.
How access changed from 2016 to today
Access on Twin Peaks Boulevard changed in stages: the vehicle pilot began in April 2016, the east-side closure became permanent in April 2020, and trail upgrades continued through 2025. Current project updates from February 2026 describe the next phase as a linear promenade park with an accessible path, habitat restoration, and clearer wayfinding.