Parks

Yes, it's even more awesome than you imagined. Since it opened in 1937, this 1.7-mile suspension span between San Francisco and Marin counties has become one of the most beloved bridges in the world. A work of art, an engineering marvel, and an American icon, the Bridge is flanked on both ends by the natural beauty of the Golden Gate National Parks. Enjoy an exhilarating, but often chilly, walk across it.

Endlessly explore the vast wilds here, one of the most stunning oceanfront parks in the world. This 70,000-acre peninsula north of San Francisco stretches from the wild and wind-chilled great beaches on the northwest side (where Sir Francis Drake landed in 1567) across forested ridges to the south.

Watch hawks trace circles in the sky from rolling hills in the Marin Headlands. Besides its wide-screen vistas of the Pacific and the Golden Gate, Hawk Hill offers fascinating wildlife experiences. It is the best place to witness the fall raptor migration and also provides habitat for the Mission blue butterfly.

Visitors keep discovering new pleasures in this jewel of a national park. From eucalyptus-lined ridges overlooking the City to its restored wetlands and beaches, it is both a place of tranquil seclusion and unique activities. Transferred from the Army to the National Park Service in 1994, the Presidio offers forests and museums, rambling trails and restaurants, cliffside surf and historic architecture.

Infamous for its maximum security prison, Alcatraz is also known for remnants of an 1850s military fort, the West Coast's first lighthouse, the birthplace of a Native American movement, an important bird-nesting locale, and the historic Alcatraz Gardens.

No beach in the world has a view like this. From its sandy shore just west of the north side of the Golden Gate Bridge, look east to a stunning panorama of the city. Limited parking. Camping reservations required.

Ready for a challenge? This 4,000-acre park above the San Mateo coast is a former Spanish colonial land grant. It boasts miles of winding public trails, important watersheds, diverse wildlife, and, atop 2,000-foot Montara Mountain, a breath-taking 360-degree view from the Bay to the Pacific.

Gaze in wonder towards the Bridge and Marin Headlands from outside the Golden Gate at mile-long Baker Beach. It's nestled at the foot of rugged cliffs on the Presidio's western shore. An easy stroll from the parking lot, you'll find a picnic area with tables, grills, and restrooms.

At every turn of the trail on this wild and rocky northwestern corner of San Francisco, there is another stunning vista. Along the way you'll see hillsides of cypress and wildflowers, views of old shipwrecks, access to the epic ruins of Sutro Baths, pocket beaches, and a new Lookout Visitor Center. You can thank community volunteers who have helped revitalize and restore the native habitat here.