San Francisco, a city celebrated for its iconic hills and breathtaking vistas, often sparks the burning question: “What are the steepest streets in San Francisco?” For years, readily available lists, sometimes dating back to the last century from the San Francisco Bureau of Engineering, have circulated, often misleading both tourists and locals alike. These outdated rankings frequently miss some truly formidable inclines that define the city’s unique character.
You might be familiar with the old list, showcasing streets like Filbert and 22nd, both boasting a 31.5% grade. While undeniably steep, this list omits other contenders that arguably offer a more intense experience. Think about Kearny Street near Broadway – a street that visually screams “steep,” yet is absent from many conventional rankings.
To set the record straight and provide an accurate picture of San Francisco’s most challenging streets, we’ve partnered with data expert Stephen Von Worley. By leveraging the precision of the National Elevation Dataset and the detailed mapping of Open Street Maps, we’ve compiled a definitive list of the real steepest streets in San Francisco. Prepare to be surprised, and perhaps challenged to explore these vertical avenues.
The Definitive Ranking: San Francisco’s True Steepest Streets
Here are the streets that truly earn the title of the steepest in San Francisco, offering a more accurate and updated perspective:
1. Bradford Street above Tompkins (41% grade)
2. Romolo Street between Vallejo and Fresno (37.5% grade)
3. Prentiss Street between Chapman and Powhattan (37% grade)
4. Nevada Street above Chapman (35% grade)
5. Baden Street above Mangels (34% grade)
6. Ripley Street between Peralta and Alabama (31.5% grade)
7. 24th Street between De Haro and Rhode Island (31.5% grade)
8. Filbert Street between Hyde and Leavenworth (31.5% grade)
9. 22nd Street between Vicksburg and Church (31.5% grade)
10. Broadway above Taylor (31% grade)
This revised list not only includes familiar names like Filbert and 22nd but also introduces you to Bradford Street, Romolo Street, and Prentiss Street, which rightfully claim the top spots as the steepest streets San Francisco has to offer. For those seeking an authentic San Francisco experience beyond the typical tourist trails, exploring these streets provides a unique and leg-burning adventure.
