Outbound Collective logo

Mt. Livermore via North Ridge Trail

Belvedere Tiburon, California

4.5/5
based on 6 reviews

Details

Distance

4.92 miles

Elevation Gain

1178 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Clare Healy

This hike is a moderate 5 mile loop, which begins with a quick ferry ride to Angel Island.

Unless you own a boat or a kayak, this adventure requires a ride on the Blue and Gold Ferry from Pier 41 in San Francisco. But let’s be honest, that’s actually half the fun. Who doesn’t love a ferry ride?

Angel Island State Park is the largest island in the Bay, and recommend the 6-mile loop around the island that combines the North Ridge and Sunset Trails. This route is mostly single track, no bikes allowed, so you’ll avoid most of the other visitors who tend to stay on the perimeter road. This hike will take you to the top of Mt. Livermore, the highest point of the island at 788 ft, and back down to Ayala Cove.

Once you exit the ferry, you’ll stay left and look for the sign marking the North Ridge Trail. Follow the signage up some stairs and across the perimeter road for the official start of the North Ridge Trail.

As you near the summit, there’s a sign for a spur that leads to Mt. Livermore. This final section is not long and there are a number of picnic tables at the summit that provide the perfect spot for you to enjoy your lunch and take in the views of the Alcatraz, The San Francisco skyline, the Bay Bridge, and the Golden Gate.

Once you’re ready to return, retrace your path and find the Sunset Trail to your right. Follow it all the way back down to the docks at Ayala Cove. Reward yourself on the ferry ride back with a cold beverage of your choosing.

Ferry times vary on the time of year. For a schedule and to buy tickets, click here.

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app
Download GPX File

Features

Photography
Hiking
Picnic Area
Scenic

Mt. Livermore via North Ridge Trail Reviews

This is also a 5mi race course and it's a fun way to get some exercise, see the island, get a ferry ride, and take in the views of the surrounding bay. We got rained on a bit but it was fun and I'd recommend signing up for a race to add some excitement to your Angel Island trip!

Takes a little over an hour to get to the top

This is a great way to stretch your legs and get a little exercise on angel island. With that said, you want to keep an eye on the weather. The day I hiked up Livermore, it was pretty foggy, so the views toward San Francisco and the Golden Gate weren't visible. I'm sure on the right day at the right time, it's unbeatable.

I have hiked this trail many times over the last 15 years. It is an easy to moderate climb with light duty hiking shoes. The view from the top is spectacular on a clear day. Once you have been to Angel Island one time, you will want to come back over and over. It is never crowded and overnight camping fees are very reasonable. Ferry service from Tiburon aboard the Angel Island Ferry is very well priced and has many departure and arrival times to suit any schedule.

You must plan ahead and get on the early ferry to fully take advantage of the Angel Island hiking. Bring food, drinks, and towels along with you. Once the ferry docks, beat the crowds and head straight for the trailhead. Get up to the peak, enjoy the panorama views, then have your pick of beaches or lawns to relax for the remainder of the day. There is a little cafe on the island if food or drink is needed.

Bring a mini stereo and beer for the top. Also don't litter, clean up after yourself. :)

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Camp on Angel Island

Angel Island Perimeter Loop

Catch the Sunset at Swedes Beach

Headlands Ride to Point Bonita Lighthouse

Vista Golden Gate

Battery Spencer