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City Guide

Running in San Francisco

Karl the Fog, legendary hills, and some of the world's most iconic running routes — welcome to San Francisco.

Temp Range

45°F to 75°F throughout year

Avg Year-Round

58°F

Best Season

Sep-Nov

Seasonal Gear Guide

Winter (Dec-Feb)

45-58°F

Mild & rainy

What to wear:

Long sleeve or light jacketRunning tightsLight glovesRunning capWater-resistant layer

💡 SF winters are mild but wet. A light waterproof jacket is essential Dec-Feb. The hills get slippery — shorten your stride on wet pavement.

Spring (Mar-May)

50-65°F

Foggy & variable

What to wear:

Long sleeveLight jacket or vestRunning tights or shortsLayers

💡 April in SF can mean fog at 8am and sunshine by noon. Dress in removable layers and start with more than you think you need.

Summer (Jun-Aug)

55-68°F

Foggy & surprisingly cool

What to wear:

Long sleeve or tee + light jacketRunning shorts or tightsLight layer for fog

💡 San Francisco's "summer" confuses tourists. Karl the Fog keeps it 55-65°F. Don't let the calendar fool you — bring a jacket.

Fall (Sep-Nov)

60-75°F

Warmest & clearest

What to wear:

Moisture-wicking teeRunning shortsLight layer for evening

💡 September-October is SF's real summer. Clear skies, warm temps, minimal fog. Golden Gate Bridge runs in October are magical.

Popular Running Routes

Golden Gate Bridge + Marin Headlands

5-20+ mi

World-class — cross the bridge for incredible trail running in the Headlands

Embarcadero to Crissy Field

6 mi

Flat Bay waterfront, best flat route in the city

Lands End Trail

3.5 mi

Coastal cliffs and hidden beach coves — bring a camera

Presidio Trails

10+ mi

Forested hills above the Bay, connects to Crissy Field and the bridge

San Francisco Essential Gear

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