Twin Peaks

Panoramic Point San Francisco, California

The Twin Peaks are two prominent hills with an elevation of approximately 925 feet (282 m) located near the geographic center of San Francisco. The North and South Twin Peaks, also known as 'Eureka' and 'Noe' respectively, are approximately 200m apart. The peaks form a divide for the summer coastal fog blown in by the Pacific Ocean. Their west-facing slopes often get fog and strong winds, while east-facing slopes get more sun and heat.

Originally called “Los Pechos de la Choca” (Breasts of the Maiden) by early Spanish settlers, most visitors like to drive to Twin Peaks drive (or take a tourist bus) to the north peak parking lot to enjoy 180-degree views of the Bay Area. Twin Peaks also hosts a large reservoir holding 300 million gallons, installed on the peaks after the 1906 quake as a water supply for fighting fires. Here's some advice: Climb to the top: for an even better view, climb the stairs up to the top of each peak, you really will feel you're floating above the whole Bay Area!. The peak furthest from the parking lot has probably the best view; there's another hill nearby that also has great views, but very few people visit: Tank Hill, most locals haven't been there, either. Try to go on a clear day. When it's foggy, Twin Peaks sits right in the middle of it and you won't see anything but swirling fog. Dress warmly. It can be very cold and windy up there, don't be fooled by a warm day. Go early.