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BAY AREA RUNNING / Routes

Lands End Coastal Trail running guide

An ocean-facing change of scene for a patient outing where the landscape, footing, and other visitors decide the pace.

Area
San Francisco
Setting
Coastal trail; rugged sections
Distance approach
NPS describes a 2.9-mile out-and-back
Guide reviewed
September 24, 2026

Know the setting

The National Park Service identifies Merrie Way as an access point to the Coastal Trail. It describes a 2.9-mile out-and-back and notes that some sections near Eagle’s Point are rugged. Accessible portions do not make every extension or spur equally accessible.

Shape your outing

Use the official trail map and stay on designated paths. An out-and-back lets you turn early rather than adding a spur with different terrain. This guide does not include the beach steps or promise an uninterrupted runnable route.

Share the route well

Treat this as a scenic outing rather than a pace test. Slow for narrow sections, uneven footing, and visitors stopping for views. A group should agree where to regroup without gathering at an exposed edge. Check current NPS conditions before leaving.

Maps, access, and current conditions

Use the official source below for the park map, current notices, and visitor rules. This is an editorial planning guide, not turn-by-turn navigation, a measured course, or a live conditions report. Any organized club outing needs its own confirmed route and event details.

Official sources & maps

Visit the responsible organization for current information.

GOOD TO KNOW

Questions, answered.

Is this an organized group run?

No. This page is a route-planning resource. Linked crews are proposed and do not establish a date, captain, or meeting point here.

Is there a GPX or verified club distance?

No surveyed club course or GPX is provided. Use the official map and check the exact segment; trail-network lengths do not define your outing.

LESS SCROLL. MORE STRIDE.

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