Mission Peak has become a Bay Area phenomenon. On any given weekend, hundreds of hikers tackle this East Bay summit, drawn by the famous summit pole (everyone wants that photo), panoramic views of the entire Bay, and a workout that's become a local rite of passage.
The hike is straightforward but challenging—2,500 feet of elevation gain in just over 3 miles on an exposed, often hot trail. It's the kind of hike that rewards fitness, punishes overconfidence, and delivers views that make every step worthwhile.
Trail Overview
Stanford Avenue Staging Area (Most Popular)
- Distance: 6.2 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,100 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Time: 3-4 hours
The classic route starts in Fremont and climbs relentlessly on a wide fire road. There's little shade, so the sun and heat are real factors. The trail steepens near the top for a final push to the summit.
Ohlone College Route
- Distance: 6.0 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,500 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
Starting from Ohlone College in Fremont, this route is slightly steeper but sometimes less crowded.
The Summit
The Pole
Mission Peak's famous summit pole has become an Instagram icon. The 6-foot steel post invites climbers to pose, lean, and photograph themselves against the sky. On busy days, expect a line.
Views
The summit panorama includes:
- San Francisco Bay and city skyline
- The entire South Bay
- Mount Diablo to the north
- Mount Hamilton to the south
- On clear days, the Sierra Nevada
Cattle
Mission Peak is a working cattle ranch—you'll share the trail with cows. They're generally docile but give them space.
Tips for Success
Beat the Heat
The trail is exposed with almost no shade. In summer, temperatures can exceed 90°F on the trail. Start early (before 7 AM) or go in cooler months.
Water
Bring at least 2 liters—more in hot weather. There's no water on the trail.
Parking
The Stanford Avenue lot is small and fills by 8 AM on weekends. Arrive early or use the Ohlone College lot.
Crowds
Mission Peak is extremely popular. For a quieter experience:
- Go on weekdays
- Start at sunrise
- Visit in winter or spring
When to Hike
- Best months: November through April (cooler, greener hills)
- Wildflowers: March and April after wet winters
- Summer: Very hot—start before 6 AM or skip it
- Fall: Brown hills but can still be hot
Quick Reference: Mission Peak
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 2,517 feet |
| Distance | 6.2 miles round trip |
| Elevation Gain | 2,100 feet |
| Difficulty | Strenuous |
| Best Time | November-April, early morning |
Mission Peak is the Bay Area's fitness hike—challenging, popular, and rewarding. The views from the summit are genuinely spectacular, and joining the parade of hikers tackling this East Bay icon is a quintessential Bay Area experience. Just bring water, go early, and earn that summit pole photo.
