Will Ross

Smooth tarmac and mean mountains, with water all around.

Hopping across the Golden Gate Bridge is a rite of passage for most tourists, who either walk or cycle over this 80-year-old structure fairly tentatively. For good reason - cross winds, fog and loud traffic make for a tough ride. Locals whistle at twice the speed through the same 10ft-wide channel, so though crossing the Bridge is a must, it should also be taken on with the calmest temperament.

Broken into a series of plateaus, this ascent up one of San Francisco's most manicured stairways is tough going. The stairs are in a crucible of mansion-level real estate, cute hedge rows and the more unruly Presidio, topping out to reward with a timeless view of the Bay.