The COVID-19 pandemic has forced almost 40 million Californians to stay at home, including San Franciscans. While the Golden Gate City may be under a stay-at-home order, locals can engage in outdoor exercise, if six feet of social distance is maintained. This means that with the right attitude and safety precautions, now is a great time to soak up a little San Francisco sunshine.
Dr. Grant Colfax, San Francisco Director of Public Health, encouraged San Franciscans by saying, “You will still be able to walk your dog or go on a hike alone or with someone you live with, or even another person as long as you keep six feet between you.”
Are you craving a dose of fresh air? Here are some safe and social distancing-approved ways to get outdoors and enjoy San Francisco nature during the shutdown.
Get to know your local parks
While national parks near San Francisco are closed, along with popular trails in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, chances are your local park is still open. Whether it’s a morning jog before starting your work from home routine, an afternoon yoga session, or a sunset stroll with your pup, the COVID-19 shutdown is a nice excuse to explore your local neighborhood and enjoy San Francisco nature.
Hike up Mission Peak
While the popular Stanford Avenue entrance is closed, you can still access the Peak Trail and the Panorama Trail from the Ohlone College entrance. Both lead up to the Mission Peak summit and reward you with sweeping views over the Santa Cruz Mountains and beyond. Watch for hawks and vultures soaring overhead. It’s also possible to see wild goats grazing on the rocky cliffsides. For more hiking ideas and the latest updates on closures and conditions at the local trails visit AllTrails, and stay up-to-date on the latest COVID-19-related trail closures at the state parks near San Francisco at California State Parks.
Enjoy San Francisco’s Slow Streets
Taking cues from Oakland, San Francisco has introduced a Slow Streets initiative designed to offer residents more space to walk, run, and cycle without compromising social distancing around San Francisco. The initiative includes 12 streets located throughout the city and could be expanded if successful. Remember, roads are still open to residents, so stay alert and keep an eye out for cars and motorbikes.
Cool off in the Pacific
The China Beach parking lot may be closed, but according to the Parks Conservatory, pedestrian and bicycle access is allowed. For a truly invigorating dose of fresh air, bike down to the beach and enjoy a dip in the Pacific Ocean. The beach is hemmed in by rocky cliffs and is protected from the strong currents.
Take an urban jog around the city
Want to really get your pulse racing? San Francisco is famously hilly, and during the lockdown, you can work this to your advantage. Try jogging up some of the city’s notoriously steep streets, including Bradford Street in Bernal Heights, Romolo Place in Jackson Square, Baden Street in Sunnyside, and 24th Street in Potrero Hill. Pretty much the entire city is open to pedestrians, so lace up your runners, keep your distance, and make the most of the limited traffic. Top tip: don’t forget to bring your own water bottle as public water fountains are either shut off or not safe to use.
Work up a sweat with your household
While playing sports with others isn’t allowed, San Francisco’s Stay Home Health Order has given the green light on playing with members of your household. Whether it’s tossing a frisbee at your local park, kicking around a soccer ball, practicing your home run swings, getting outdoors with your family or housemates is a great way to stay active during the shutdown while practicing responsible social distancing around San Francisco.
Want to know more about what’s allowed during the stay-at-home order? Check out San Francisco’s Stay Home Health Order website for the latest updates on exercise, closures, and social distancing around San Francisco.
The good news is, when COVID-19 restrictions are lifted, the incredible national parks near San Francisco will be waiting. Marvel at eye-popping landscapes in Yosemite, gaze up at living giants in Sequoia and Kings Canyon, and discover dramatic desert scenery in Death Valley.
Team Outdoorsy is here to help you along your journey. If you have questions or concerns about your upcoming RV rental, give us a call at 1-877-723-7232, send us an email, or start a chat. And for a continuously updated list of frequently asked COVID-19 questions relating to RV travel, visit our FAQ page.
