Twin Peaks (San Francisco)

The Twin Peaks are two prominent hills with an elevation of about 925ft located near the geographic center of San Francisco, California. Only 928foot Mount Davidson is higher within the city.Location and climateThe North and South Twin Peaks, also known as "Eureka" and "Noe" respectively, are about 200m apart; Twin Peaks Boulevard runs a figure eight around them. The peaks form a divide for the summer coastal fog pushed in from the Pacific Ocean. Their west-facing slopes often get fog and strong winds, while the east-facing slopes receive more sun and warmth. Elevation at each summit is just over 900ft. Thin, sandy soil is commonplace on Twin Peaks, making them susceptible to erosion.HistoryBefore the arrival of the Europeans, the native Ohlone people may have used Twin Peaks as a lookout or hunting ground. The ecological diversity of Twin Peaks provided medicinal or ceremonial plants, grains and berries. When the Spanish conquistadors and settlers arrived at the beginning of the 18th century, they called the area "Los Pechos de la Chola" or "Breasts of the Indian Maiden" and devoted the area to ranching. When San Francisco passed under American control during the 19th century, it was renamed "Twin Peaks".AttractionsChristmas Tree Point lies some 70ft below the North Peak and offers vistas of San Francisco and San Francisco Bay. The view to the north extends no farther than Cobb Mountain 120 km away, but looking southeast down the Santa Clara Valley on a clear day, Santa Ana Mountain is just visible 143 km away.