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.

Fort Miley is hidden in plain sight. If you’ve visited Lands End or Sutro Baths, you’ve already passed right by this former military site. On your next visit, look east as you find parking near the USS San Francisco Memorial, you’ll see a paved road and one entrance to this

In 1885, self-made millionaire Adolph Sutro created the Sutro Heights Park, an elegant and formal public garden that covered over 20 acres in the area now known as Lands End.