01
Best overall pick
Sawyer Camp Trail (Crystal Springs Regional Trail)
Skyline Boulevard, West Of Millbrae • Paved Reservoir‑Side Multi‑Use Trail • Classic Local Favorite
A smooth lakeside path with big reservoir views and gentle grades that works for casual walkers and longer training miles alike.
Just a few minutes up the hill from Millbrae, Sawyer Camp is the stretch everyone means when they talk about “going for a walk at Crystal Springs.” It’s paved, mostly flat, and follows the edge of the Lower Crystal Springs Reservoir, so you get open water vistas and oak‑dotted slopes without committing to a tough climb. Go early on weekends if you prefer a quieter feel, and head north from the main parking area if you want the widest views and a bit more space from the crowds.
02
Best mellow nature walk
San Andreas Lake Trail
West Of Millbrae, Near Skyline Boulevard • Lakeshore Path Through Coastal Hills • Relaxed Escape Close To Town
A quieter companion to Crystal Springs with a gently rolling path above the water and frequent bird and wildlife sightings.
The San Andreas Lake Trail runs along the eastern side of the reservoir, offering a more tucked‑away feel than Sawyer Camp while still staying close to Millbrae. The route undulates through eucalyptus and scrub, with regular glimpses of the lake and the spine of the Peninsula hills beyond. It’s an easy choice when you want a longer stroll in nature without a big climb—just expect limited amenities, so bring water and be ready for some breezy stretches along the open sections.
03
Best in‑town stretch‑your‑legs option
Millbrae Spur Trail (Phases I & II)
Through Central Millbrae • Tree‑Lined Urban Greenway • Everyday Local Loop
A linear path threaded through Millbrae’s neighborhoods, ideal for quick walks, jogs, and bike‑free kid outings under tall eucalyptus.
The Spur Trail is the kind of route locals use multiple times a week: a former rail corridor turned greenway that runs through the heart of Millbrae. Long rows of mature eucalyptus offer shade and a buffer from nearby streets, and frequent access points make it easy to tailor the distance to your schedule. It’s not a wilderness hike, but if you want to get steps in before work or unwind after dinner without driving anywhere, this is the go‑to option.
04
Best coastal bluff hike
Mori Point
Pacifica Coastline, West Of Millbrae • Blufftop And Hillside Coastal Trails • Scenic Half‑Day Outing
Low‑to‑moderate climbs lead to sweeping ocean views, wildflowers in season, and classic Pacifica cliffs just 15–20 minutes from Millbrae.
Mori Point feels much farther from the city than the short drive from Millbrae suggests, with dirt paths climbing from wetlands and ponds up to dramatic cliffs over the Pacific. You can keep it easy with a short loop near the base or head up the steeper bluff trails for wide‑open views of the coastline and Highway 1 snaking below. Fog and wind are part of the charm here, so pack layers, and consider timing your visit for late afternoon light or spring wildflower blooms along the bluff tops.
05
Best challenging climb
Montara Mountain (North Peak routes)
Montara State Beach And Mcnee Ranch Area • Steep Coastal Mountain Climb • Big‑View Workout Hike
A sustained ascent up old ranch and fire roads to a summit with panoramic views over the ocean, Peninsula, and on clear days, the city skyline.
For hikers ready to break a sweat, Montara Mountain is the standout objective within an easy drive of Millbrae. Trails climb steadily through chaparral and coastal scrub, with views opening up quickly as you gain elevation above the fog layer. Bring sturdy shoes, water, and sun protection—there’s not much shade once you’re out of the lower slopes—and plan on a few hours round‑trip so you can linger at the high viewpoints before heading back down.