13 Steepest and Hilly Streets in San Francisco: Exploring the City’s Iconic Inclines
San Francisco is known for its unique landscape, featuring steep and hilly streets that captivate visitors and residents alike. The city’s steepest streets, with their sharp inclines, are a must-see for anyone exploring San Francisco.
These streets are popular among tourists, photographers, and fitness enthusiasts because of their challenging nature and stunning views. Discovering these inclines provides both a physical challenge and an opportunity to enjoy the city’s beauty.
While steep streets are known for their sharp inclines, the hilliest neighborhoods offer rolling hills that contribute to San Francisco’s charm. Exploring both allows you to fully appreciate the city’s diverse terrain.
7 Steepest Streets In San Francisco
These streets have the most extreme inclines, making them some of the steepest in the world.
Filbert Street (31.5% Grade)
Known for its steep 31.5% grade, Filbert Street challenges both residents and visitors. This street showcases San Francisco’s unique and hilly geography with every step you take.
- Why it’s famous: One of the steepest streets in San Francisco.
- What to do: Test your endurance walking up, or enjoy the view from the top.
22nd Street (31.5% Grade)
22nd Street shares the same ambitious incline as Filbert, making it a standout in the city’s landscape. Its gradient demands attention and invites curiosity from all who pass by.
- Why it’s famous: Has one of the highest street grades in the city.
- What to do: Walk up to the top for a rewarding cityscape view.
Jones Street (Between Union & Green) – 29% Grade
Jones Street features a 29% grade, making it a hidden gem for those interested in San Francisco’s less touristy, but equally daring, streets.
- Why it’s famous: A lesser-known but extremely steep street.
- What to do: Great for urban explorers looking for steep streets beyond tourist hotspots.
California Street
As a historic part of the city’s cable car system, California Street boasts a significant incline. The street is steeped in local tradition and history.
- Why it’s famous: A historic cable car route with a significant incline.
- What to do: Ride the cable car for a classic San Francisco experience.
Clay Street (Between Taylor & Jones)
Clay Street offers both a high incline and panoramic views of the city. It’s a haven for photographers and anyone who enjoys scenic landscapes.
- Why it’s famous: Features a high incline and offers scenic city views.
- What to do: Ideal for photography and cityscape enthusiasts.
Divisadero Street
One of the longer stretches with steep parts, Divisadero Street attracts cycling enthusiasts seeking a challenge along with fantastic views of the city.
- Why it’s famous: A long stretch with steep sections, popular for cycling.
- What to do: Enjoy a challenging bike ride or admire the scenic neighborhoods.
Lombard Street
Famed for its eight sharp hairpin turns, Lombard Street draws millions of visitors. Its unusual design is both practical and picturesque.
- Why it’s famous: Known for its iconic eight hairpin turns.
- What to do: Drive or walk down the world-famous “Crookedest Street.”
6 Hilly Streets In San Francisco
[These streets are known for their rolling hills and scenic elevation changes.]
Broadway Street
Broadway Street boasts sweeping views of the Bay and skyline.
- Why it’s famous: Offers sweeping views of the Bay and city skyline.
- What to do: Take a scenic walk and admire the views.
Russian Hill (Multiple Streets In The Area)
Russian Hill is a picturesque and historic hilly district.
- Why it’s famous: A picturesque and historic hilly district.
- What to do: Explore charming streets and enjoy panoramic views.
Twin Peaks Boulevard
Twin Peaks Boulevard leads to a top viewpoint in the city.
- Why it’s famous: Leads to one of the best viewpoints in San Francisco.
- What to do: Drive or hike up to Twin Peaks for breathtaking scenery.
Nob Hill (California Street & Powell Street)
Nob Hill offers historic high elevations with stunning architecture.
- Why it’s famous: A historic district with high elevations and stunning architecture.
- What to do: Walk around and admire the grand hotels and churches.
Vermont Street
Vermont Street is a curvy street similar to famous Lombard Street.
- Why it’s famous: Another curvy street often compared to Lombard Street.
- What to do: Drive or walk the winding path for a fun experience.
Hyde Street
Hyde Street provides incredible views of Alcatraz and the Bay.
- Why it’s famous: Offers incredible views of Alcatraz and the Bay.
- What to do: Ride the cable car for an unforgettable journey up and down its steep slopes.
Conclusion
San Francisco is famous for its steep and hilly streets. Bradford Street tops the list of steepest streets with a 41% grade. Other notable streets include Romolo and Prentiss. Explore these streets and more during your visit.
Consider exploring these streets on foot for a truly local experience. Driving is an option, but it requires confidence due to the steep grades. Riding a cable car is both fun and convenient for getting around these hilly areas.
For fewer crowds and better views, plan to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. These times typically offer a quieter experience and a chance to enjoy stunning views without the bustle of daytime tourists.
Frequently Asked Questions
San Francisco’s steep streets are famous worldwide. These hills offer unique landscapes and present specific challenges for locals and visitors.
Can I find a map pinpointing San Francisco’s steepest streets?
Yes, maps highlighting steep streets, including Bradford Street with its 41% grade, are available online and in tourist guides.
What are the challenges of navigating San Francisco’s steepest streets?
Navigating these streets can be tough due to sharp inclines and tight turns. Driving and parking can be tricky, especially on the crookedest street in the world.
What is the maximum road grade permitted in urban planning within San Francisco?
Urban planning typically limits street grades to prevent steep inclines from affecting safety and drivability. Common practice avoids grades over 15%, though some exceptions exist due to the city’s unique terrain.
Are there any streets with steeper grades than the internationally recognized steepest street?
Bradford Street holds a record in San Francisco with a 41% grade, rivaling any international contenders. Other streets in the city have steep inclines, but none surpass Bradford’s severity according to local experts.
