Moderate

Access to the beach is via a paved drive or stairway down from the parking lot to water level.

Surrounded by urban development in Pacifica, Milagra Ridge forms what biologists call an island ecosystem. Despite this isolation, this 250-acre park hosts a surprising diversity of natural resources. It is home to threatened and endangered species like the mission blue and San Bruno elfin butterflies.

This trail to the Muir Beach Overlook offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Marin County coastline.

During the Cold War, anti-aircraft missile stations were constructed on the northern and southern sides of Rodeo Lagoon in the Marin Headlands. Radar sites were placed atop Hawk Hill and Hill 88.

This segment of the Bay Trail, skirting the northern edge of Fort Mason, features lovely Golden Gate Bridge vistas and an overhead view of the piers and buildings of lower Fort Mason, the port of embarkation from which 1.6 million military personnel shipped out to the Pacific Theater.

Tennessee Valley is an amazing offshoot of the Marin Headlands, with hiking trails that suit the whole family.