Have You Visited the Golden Gate National Recreation Area Yet?
The Golden Gate National Recreation Area is one of the best kept secrets in the San Francisco area. This area, which flanks the Golden Gate Bridge and includes parts of three counties, as well as Alcatraz Island, has something for everyone.
This area is accessible by public transit, although driving in your own vehicle will allow you to explore more of the park. Enjoy 59 miles of coastline, and hundreds of historic buildings along with beaches, forests, and amazing views. If you are a home owner in or around Newark, Oakland, or any nearby area and have not visited the Golden Gate Bridget, you owe it to yourself to check out this clean and monumental recreation area.
North Of The Golden Gate Bridge
If you’re crossing the Golden Gate Bridge, drive into the Marin Headlands and park at Battery Spencer. Here, you can take a short path to a Golden Gate viewpoint that’s truly spectacular. Another scenic view is the Hawk Hill viewing platform, which is a favorite among birdwatchers. During the day, you can see a huge variety of hawks and gulls.
As the sun begins to set, you’ll be able to view it from Point Bonita Lighthouse. The lighthouse is open Sat-Mon and makes for a great addition to the trip.
Try Mountain Biking
You can rent a bike, or bring your own and take a ride on the Middle Green Gulch Trail. It’s a fairly strenuous trip where you’ll gain 1,000 feet in altitude, and then gravel down Dias Ridge. From the trail, you’ll see great views of the hills and the Pacific Ocean. At the end of the trip, stop by the Pelican Inn, a popular pub, for a meal and a pint. If you have time, ride to the Muir Beach Overlook for one last amazing panoramic view of the coastline.
Visit Fort Baker
This 335 acre chunk of land was a 1905 Army base, and is often missed by tourists. Anyone who has an interest in military history should make a trip there, and you can also enjoy a museum, as well as hiking in the immediate area.
There are over 25 army buildings located on the base, as well as a jetty-protected harbor, gun emplacements, and various trails leading up from the San Francisco Bay. There are fun water activities nearby at Horseshoe Cove
Explore The Prison
Alcatraz is probably one of the best-known prisons, and you’ll have to board a ferry to visit it. The 22-acre island has a rich history, and is well-known for being the residence of Al Capone, the Birdman of Alcatraz, and other criminals.
It was added to the national park in 1973, and is now a tourist attraction. The New Industries Building on the island has also become a venue for art displays, so enjoy the history and some culture while you’re there.
Enjoy Engaging Activities At The Presidio
This is a mostly green space that surrounds the southern base of the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s one of the busiest parts of the park, and you can enjoy a wide range of activities such as biking, rock climbing, bowling, visiting the Walt Disney Museum, and enjoy local food trucks.
Events and activities vary here throughout the year. Before planning your trip, check out the schedule of events to make sure that you plan for any upcoming activities.