Discover the Real Steepest Streets in San Francisco: Beyond the Tourist Traps

Have you ever been asked, “What are the steepest streets in San Francisco?” by curious tourists or friends? If you’ve searched online for an answer, you’ve likely encountered the San Francisco Bureau of Engineering’s list, a somewhat outdated compilation from the last century.

That older list looks something like this:

1. Filbert between Leavenworth and Hyde (31.5% grade)
2. 22nd between Church and Vicksburg (31.5% grade)
3. Jones between Union and Filbert (29% grade)
4. Duboce between Buena Vista and Alpine (27.9% grade)
5. Jones between Green and Union (26% grade)
6. Webster between Vallejo and Broadway (26% grade)
7. Duboce between Alpine and Divisadero (25% grade)
8. Jones between Pine and California (24.8 grade)
9. Fillmore between Vallejo and Broadway (24% grade)

However, this list is deceptive, missing some incredibly steep streets that are clearly present in San Francisco’s hilly terrain. Think about Kearny Street just above Broadway – noticeably steep, yet absent from the official record.

To uncover the truly steepest streets, we collaborated with Stephen Von Worley. By combining data from the National Elevation Dataset with an Open Street Maps grid, we’ve compiled the definitive list of San Francisco’s most precipitous roads. You’re welcome to explore the real heart-pounding inclines of San Francisco.

The Definitive List of San Francisco’s Steepest Streets:

1. Bradford above Tompkins (41% grade)
2. Romolo between Vallejo and Fresno (37.5% grade)
3. Prentiss between Chapman and Powhattan (37% grade)
4. Nevada above Chapman (35% grade)
5. Baden above Mangels (34% grade)
6. Ripley between Peralta and Alabama (31.5% grade)
7. 24th between De Haro and Rhode Island (31.5% grade)
8. Filbert between Hyde and Leavenworth (31.5% grade)
9. 22nd between Vicksburg and Church (31.5% grade)
10. Broadway above Taylor (31% grade)

These streets represent the ultimate challenge for cyclists and a thrilling experience (or daunting climb!) for pedestrians. Next time someone asks about San Francisco’s steepest streets, you’ll have the accurate answer, showcasing the city’s true vertical character.