It seems like it’s animal day here at Far Out City. Guess who has a toddler obsessed with animals? Go on, guess.

The low shrubbery of the Bay Area’s mountain ranges makes for some excellent views and birdwatching, and this past weekend we got a chance to pack in both at San Bruno Mountain State Park. Just a 10-20 minute drive south of San Francisco, San Bruno Mountain is that strip of land between the airport and Daly City.

From its peak on Radio Road (aptly named once you see all the radio antennas), you get stunning views of the East Bay and Peninsula, as well as the broad stretch of Daly City, glittering with highways on the march out to the Pacific. To the north, you’ll see Twin Peaks and the Marin Headlands beyond as well as much of San Francisco. On very clear days, you can even see Point Reyes. Crazy!

But, once you’re on foot, the birdwatching is dizzying. Hawks circle overhead while scrub jays chirp and tweet out from behind wildflowers and brush. All you need is some silence and the patience to locate them. It makes for a great weekend hike.