Get to Know a Neighborhood in San Franciso: Twin Peaks

Located in the geographic center of San Francisco, Twin Peaks has some of the best views in the City. Every year millions flock to the Twin Peaks lookout, the second highest point in San Francisco offering sweeping views of San Francisco, the Bay Area and the Pacific Ocean. Twin Peaks is a prominent dividing point for the summer coastal fog. West-facing slopes receive substantial fog and strong winds, while east-facing slopes receive more sunlight and warmth.

Homes in Twin Peaks consist of single family homes, condominiums, tenancies-in-common and apartment buildings. The architecture runs the gamut from turn-of-the-century to mid-century to newer construction. Mid-century architecture predominates. Many homes feature spectacular views. Twin Peaks is perfect for outdoor types. The hills offer a number of hiking trails, from the Twin Peaks lookout, to Tank Hill, to nearby Glen Park Canyon and Mt. Davidson. The new “Creeks to Peaks” hiking trail will connect the Glen Park Canyon trails with the Twin Peaks trail. Part of this initiative includes a plan to block all car and bus traffic from the east side of Twin Peaks Blvd, allowing for a more pedestrian-friendly hiking area.

The main attraction in Twin Peaks is the two peaks from which the neighborhood got its name. The area upon which the peaks sit is an undeveloped 31-acre natural area. The north peak, named Eureka Peak, has the vista point known as Christmas Tree Point, with views of San Francisco and the San Francisco Bay. The southern peak is called Noe Peak. The Twin Peaks Natural Area is also home to the Mission blue butterfly habitat conservation, one of the few remaining habitats for this species.

While predominantly a residential neighborhood, Twin Peaks has easy access to nearby shops and restaurants in West Portal, Diamond Heights and the Mira Loma shopping center. Bounded by Clayton St. to the north, Market St. to the east, Twin Peaks Blvd. to the west and Portola Drive to the south, the area is served by the 37 Muni line. The West Portal Muni station, which runs beneath Twin Peaks, gives access to downtown. Glen Park BART is a short bus ride down O’Shaughnessy Blvd.