From the top of Bolinas Ridge take in bird’s-eye views up and down the San Andreas Rift Zone. The fault divides Olema Valley, a lovely, undulating landscape reminiscent of England, that dips slowly down to the waters of Tomales Bay in the north, and Bolinas Lagoon in the south.

As its name suggests, this trail offers more of a leisurely promenade than a strenuous hike. But its 2.1-mile-long distance covers a vast swath of Presidio history; connecting the Lombard Gate and the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center, this trail offers a fantastic overview of the Presidio's past, present, and future.

Surrounded by urban development in Pacifica, Milagra Ridge forms what biologists call an island ecosystem.

Tucked almost directly beneath the Golden Gate Bridge, this former army post is on the threshold of the dramatic coastline of the Marin Headlands.

Logged during the 19th century, the area is especially popular now with equestrians.

The steep, mile-long trail to the cove begins at the parking area above Battery Spencer on Conzelman Road—eye-level with the Golden Gate Bridge's towers—and descends through a grove of cypress, eucalyptus, and pine.

One of the signature trail improvement projects of the Parks Conservancy, the multi-use Battery East Trail features eye-popping views of the soaring towers of the Golden Gate Bridge, as well as an overlook/seating area to admire the span and San Francisco Bay.

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

The army built Battery Chamberlin on Baker Beach in 1904 to protect the harbor’s minefields.