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Marin Headlands
Rating Details »
Categories: Parks, Landmarks & Historical Buildings, Hiking [Edit]
948 Fort BarryGolden Gate National Recreation Area
Sausalito, CA 94965
(415) 331-1540
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
149 reviews for Marin Headlands
I'm writing my review specifically on Hawk Hill Tunnel.
One of my most favorite places to be in the SF.
In fact, i liked it so much i even wrote an english essay on it.. ; )
These are some parts from my essay (as stupid as i may sound).
Hawk Hill and its tunnels are a part of a rare place that captures both the beauty of the metropolitan city and raw nature at the same time.
There are hills that roll and end at the coast where the Pacific Ocean begins. After riding across the Golden Gate bridge, you will have to take a turn and change directions so that you're heading back towards the south of the Bay. Then we travel right onto the last exit before getting onto the Golden Gate (a street called Conzelman Road). This road will then snake up a steep hill which is located on the right of the bridge.
As we go up the hill, you get another aspect of the bridge. Instead of the bridge standing far away or towering above you, it is stretched humbly below us. Suddenly the road widens into an area where you can stop to look at the Bridge. If at any moment, instead of looking at the Bay, you turn 180 degrees around, you will find a large hole in the hill. This is where the Hawk Hill Tunnel starts.
Unlike most tunnels, it is split in the middle where the hill has a gap. Interestingly, there are large sequoia trees in this space. It is more enjoyable when there are no people around. If you go into the second part of the tunnel, you may find drawings on the walls of the tunnel if you look closely enough. These drawings make the tunnels more alive. The combination of the drawings inside of the tunnel and the nature around the tunnel makes it peaceful yet alive with visuals that one can see.
I was a little reluctant about writing this review because of what a cool experience it is to walk through the tunnel without all the people, but then again if there's something good you gotta share it. :)
Beautiful.
Amazing views.
Must-see.
...what else is there to say that hasn't already been said?
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"Little" hike, it was anything but little and took my group with 3 dogs and various water stops about 4 hours from our start point at the Marin Headlands Visitor Center and back. We followed the suggested trail as written in a hiking book. This took us up an uphill battle... YES, it was a battle!
We were warned by a few others along the trail that the coyotes were acting aggressively to dogs, however my take on that was, welllll the dogs can distract them as we run and if the dogs survive they'll find us! So mean I know. :(
This is not for the faint of heart, however after passing an at least 80 year old man using walking sticks and my 9 year old daughter tackling this trail I had no option, but to conquer it and that I did followed by a trip to Carl's Jr. Grrrr
I say, "Yay I'm a fan until I think about the constant uphill climb." OUCH However, we discovered so many barracks and old nuclear missile sights along the way that I couldn't wait to see what was next!! I still want to go back and throw something in the water pit at the old missile site and see what it mutates into! So cool!!!!!
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I've enjoyed the Marin Headlands when I was a young boy and my school would take trips out here as would my family. Now that I'm grown man I made the trip again . . . with family visiting from St. Louis. All the same, the views remained spectacular. The abandoned bunkers and pillboxes were neat although I don't know why you would get some wedding photos in front of the bunkers. The pedestrian tunnels were fun.
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Every once in awhile i'm lucky enough to meet someone who points me towards a hidden treasure in my own backyard.
While I was at Blackwell's Wines for a tasting, http://www.yelp.com/bi... one of the locals was kind enough to tip me off to the Marin Headlands. He said that it was one of the most beautiful places in the US. I had my doubts; I mean sure san fran is pretty and full of culture, but one of the most beautiful places in the US? ? ? ?
The next morning I traveled across the golden gate...... through a small tunnel, and BANG I was in a different world. It's shocking how such an untouched, flower covered island sits so close in proximity to one of the largest cities in the US!!!!
If you love nature and hiking, or if you just need some time to yourself this is the place. I doubt you will find a beach or untouched countryside in the USA more beautiful than here.
The views are sweeping, spectacular, and utterly breathtaking; in fact every turn I made I was met with more beauty then the turn before. I spent all day hiking around from sunrise till sunset, and left completely refreshed and happy. My legs were darn tired, but it was totally worth it :).
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One of the most spectacular places in San Francisco that isn't actually in San Francisco.
Awesome view of the Golden Gate Bridge as well as the city skyline. There are benches to sit down and take it all in not to mention that the place is dog friendly. Although one Park Police Officer who wasn't clear on this fact decided to be a complete ass and asked us to remove our dog. After pointing out he was wrong, he left in a huff. His behavior seemed to be a little homophobic in nature due to the fact that we weren't the only ones with a dog that day.
Despite his attempt, he did not ruin this place for me. Take in the sun as well as the view of the Headlands. If you continue down the road to Point Bonita Lighthouse you will find another treasure that offers more of the same.
There are picnic tables, trails and exciting twisty roads the entire length of this area. This place will make you fall even more in love with San Francisco!
The best non-tourist destination in SF. Spooky as hell in the fog. Word.
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Fond memories here, grateful to be living in the bay area.
I am amazed at how many people I talk to who have grown up in San Francisco, yet don't even know where the Marin Headlands are. I can't see how anyone can miss such a treasure only minutes away. You don't have to be the outdoor-type to appreciate the beauty here. Bring the family. Have a picnic. Sit/play by the beach. It's all free. For nature lovers, it is a picturesque playground.
Even on the trails on a warm weekend, I don't run into many folks. It's sad, really. You can be transported into a different world--a world of peace and tranquility. I can't think of a better place to get away from the human animals for awhile. I come across deer frequently, and the types of birds I catch sight of are beautiful.
I don't make it out here often, but I'm hoping that will change as I continue to conquer some of its brutal trails during training and races. But my recent visit left me stranded, as I stupidly relied on Muni to get me back home, which never arrived. Getting cell phone service in the area is a crapshoot; my battery drained from trying to snag a signal. Long story short, the Park Ranger was kind enough to give me a ride back to the City, which I could not be more grateful for.
Due to the tunnel prohibiting pedestrian use, hitchhiking is legal in this National Park. Being stuck out there as it quickly became cold and dark, I can't say that it never crossed my mind.
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1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/13/2006
So many trails, so little time.
Ditch the car; walk across the bridge and hike into the Headlands.… Read more »
[for memory sake] on thursday, 08.27.09--the weather was SUNNY, CLEAR, WARM & 74 degrees in SF!!! no fog or clouds. what the heck?!?
this is a place to take wonderful pictures & to soak in all the sun while you're looking out to the magical city of San Francisco.
you can see everything from a different perspective on this hill top. this view is simply amazing & beautiful!!!
take a look at the pictures i took today!!! this place is so gorgeous when the weather is simply perfect. :D
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can not tell you how cool this place is. A must if you love views and taking photos.
The Oakwood Valley Trail (part of the Marin Headlands) is a peaceful, lush, mostly shaded dirt trail, 2 miles in length. There is a small creek that runs parallel to the trail. There isn't much of a view on the Oakwood Valley Trail, other than of trees, creek and shrubs (but it's still a pretty spot). The path can be uneven at times due to water erosion.
The trailhead is on Tennessee Valley Road (free parking). There are two paths - the one on the left has a wider dirt path and passes through a more open area. The one on the right takes you through a forest - you'll find trees (oak, on both sides of the path and branches overhead). Both paths have a slight incline which eventually becomes steeper towards the trail end where the paths meet up again.
The Oakwood Valley Trail connects to the Alta Trail which takes you up the mountain. Stay on the right side. You'll climb a set of stairs. The left side looks like it might lead up to the top but I'm told it's overgrown. The climb offers a good workout. I didn't make it to the top because sunset was fast approaching.
I didn't see too many animals but I did hear birds. Apparently there are coyotes in the area and hawks and falcons have been spotted in the area.
No bikes or horses are allowed. Dogs are allowed.
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My Favorite place to take the dogs. You can visit several times a month and have totally different experiences everytime. Such a jewel to have so close to City.
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How many times have I used the cliche of "so close to the city, yet worlds away"? No matter, I'm going to use it one more time, because Marin Headlands practically invented the concept. Seriously, how they protected all this from development, I'll never know (actually, I should probably read up on the history). On a sunny day, the views just keep on coming--yet you'll never get tired of them. In the clouds and fog, it's so desolate you might as well be in Scotland. Yet rather than futilely try and capture the quality of the place in my review, let me just emphasize the quantity of things to do. To say the GGB vista point on the 101 is the tip of the iceberg is a vast understatement--you could (and should) spend a dozen weekends seeing it all. Off the top of my head:
* Fort Baker (now with a swanky hotel, restaurant, and kid's museum)
* The thrillingly precipitous one-way stretch of Conzelman Road
* The Baker Tunnel
* The Slacker Trail viewpoint (my personal favorite spot to photograph the bridge and city)
* Kirby Cove (Bay Area's Best Kept Secret Picnic Spot?)
* Hawk Hill viewpoint and the Battery 129 tunnels
* Point Bonita Lighthouse (love that rickety bridge)
* Rodeo Beach and Lagoon
* Gerbode Valley Loop Hike
* Tennessee Valley Trail to Tennessee Beach (it's a car-free beach, people!)
* Muir Beach and the Green Gulch/Pirate's Cove Loop
* The Marin Headlands Visitor Center
* And about a zillion more historic army structures
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Best place for biking...if they would get rid of the hills! No really, a beautiful park that I can get lost in for days biking and hiking around.
One of the most spectacular spots in an area brimming over with picturesque views. The vistas are breathtaking from every direction, and you are guaranteed a good time no matter what you do with your visit.
We started at Rodeo beach (which we reached after miles of jaw-dropping views of the bay, ocean, bridge, and downtown San Francisco). The waves were beautiful, and things got even better as we hiked up the coastal trail from the beach. We wound our way past meadows of wildflowers, craggy cliffs, and several tempting detours.
Next, we made our way to the Point Bonita lighthouse. The approach to it was lovely, but we didn't have the patience to wait in line at the final suspension bridge. Maybe next time, when the day is clearer, but for today's sunny fog, this was perfect. There is no way I am leaving San Francisco.
I was so bummed that I forgot my camera at home when we made an impromptu trip through the tunnel on our way out of Sausalito. Driving through the Marin Headlands is unbelievably breathtaking - particularly during sunset...tres tres romantic...I had no idea what this place was like, and I've signed up to run the Marin Headlands half marathon in April.
At least I know when I'm dying in the middle of that race, I'll be surrounded by beautiful, right?
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When will they implement 1/2 stars as I want to say my adventure in the Marin Headlands was worthy of 3 1/2 stars. I had my sights set on seeing the giant redwoods and huge sequoias which I did.
However, I was led astray when I accidentally took the wrong trail called Ocean View. Yes this was my mistake and I realised that Muir Wood is not Yosemite... there are only sporadically placed markers making it difficult to figure out where you are or how far you've gone.
Instead of veering turning off the path onto the Lost Trail, I climbed up higher and higher only to find out nothing closely or remotely looking like an 'Ocean View.' Maybe it should have been called a trail leading to Ocean View Highway which is miles away from the actual ocean called the Pacific.
I would advise you to get to the Headlands early if you want to take everything in before the crush of the crowds. FYI: By the time we left, every space in the lot was taken and tour buses abound. Expect a walk if you come late as some cars were parked over a mile away from the Visitor's Center which I recommend using as your starting point -- only if you want to see the trees.
I have been coming up to the Marin Headlands for quite a few years now and I cannot think of a more scenic spot anywhere in the bay area. Depending on the time of day you come up to the top of the mountains, you can either see San Francisco and the Golden gate at sunset, covered in fog or shining under the bright California sun. The views from the top of the fort are absolutely breathtaking in every direction.
If you park by the entrance to the abandoned fort, you can take one of two tunnels to the trail that runs up the mountain to an observation deck up top. Watch for a hidden room on the right in one of the tunnels with some amazing artwork on the walls.
Another hidden treasure separated by a winding drive is Rodeo Beach on the other side of the headlands from the bridge. Everyone must check this beach out if you haven't already.
Date & Time: Saturday September 20, 2008 @ 1pm
Company: Michael & Canine Jack
Crowd: None Save for Nice Middle-Aged Couples in Ralph Lauren & Guys on Bikes
Scene: Mountains & Rodeo Beach
Route: We Took the Coastal, Wolf Ridge & Miwok Trail
Devour: Packed Viking Sub Sandwiches or Houston's Dining Hall
Animals: Deers
Insects: Bees- Got Stung on the Ear halfway through the 3.1 Mile
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Beauuuutiiifuulllllllllllll!
Beautiful, amazing, colorful, dazalling,exciting and all sorts of other words could be used to describe this amazing place on our planet. There are beaches and hiking trails and some breath taking world famous views.
The park has so many wonderful things to see and do. You should go and explore. Its a great place to spend a day with nature.
Can you remember the first place you ever watched the sunrise with your friends? The first place your Mom took you to see wild life? The first place you stood and saw the Golden Gate Bridge in all its glory? I can. This place is the Marin Headlands.
I was such a lucky kid to grow up in the North Bay. I was surrounded by natural beauty. As a child I would come here with my Mom. She would hold my hand as we walked along the paths. We would often visit one of her friends who worked at the Marin mammal Center. This was the first place I ever saw a seal.
I came here in my teenage years. We would come late at night and stay until the sun rose. Often times we cuddled up in clusters talking about our future.
I came here today. I wasn't with my Mom. I didn't see any seals. I didn't stay up all night with my friends. Instead I stood alone, staring in awe upon the city I love.
I sat down on a bench and watched. I watched as boats went in and out of the bay. I watched the thousands of cars coming and going from the bridge. I watched as families, bikers, lovers and friends passed by me. I watched what seemed like the whole bay. Wondering just how so much beauty could be wrapped up in one little place. Wondering how I was so lucky to be here and be alive.
Today I came here with a heart that was broken a long time ago... A heart that was helped mended by the sights and sounds here.
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Dudes, flowers die and candy makes girls fat.
An epic view and a little romance, on the other hand, go a long, long way.
There's a reason they call it the *Head*lands.
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What is there not to love about this picturesque place?! It has the best sunsets ever - for the young peeps, great cupcaking spots.
This is a Bay Area treasure.
Nice views, but a lot tourist, so there is a bit traffic.
A must place to go to during your life.
The headlands are an amazing oasis of nature directly across from the concrete landscape of San Francisco. Perfect for hikes, bird watching, communing with nature, taking gorgeous photos and stealing away to spend time with your sweetheart.
The last time I went, we brought a picnic with us and enjoyed the warm yet foggy day that had clouds rolling over the Golden Gate Bridge in waves of white nothingness. It's a beautiful view and an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city (if only for a short amount of time).
Parking can be difficult at times depending on the area you decide to park. But it's still a worthwhile trip to make to get out of the East Bay and SF for the day.
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Today was perfect.
It was sunny and clear.
We hiked for 3 hours and didn't even notice =]
...the spectacular surrounding distracted us.
My baby and I had our own picnic at the top of the mountain and everything was just right.
I don't really need to say much - the place speaks for itself. However, do not stop hiking... go and get lost... you will find the coolest places- like a bridge to a lighthouse (open to the public)
The Marin Headlands have something for everyone!
Whether you hike, bike, walk, surf.....crawl, there is something to do! I have been a frequent visitor my entire life, and feel blessed to live so close. The views are to die for. They honestly showcase some of the worlds very best lookouts.
If you like camping lightly, Kirby Cove is excellent for all ages. A light walk down a fire road will take you to the campground which is another 100 yards to the ocean looking up at the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, and as far as the eye can see into the Pacific Ocean.
Up top the Nike Air Base is an interesting, and somewhat educational spot to check out. It makes you thankful that we never had to use them, or go to war on our beautiful landscape.
Rodeo Beach is just wonderful. You get a sense of freedom that is hard to find even at some of the more popular local beaches. The weather is not swimmer friendly, but sure is shark friendly. You can see surfers here pretty frequently as well. The hiking trail above is very nice, and walks along the water at several points that make for great photos. Don't go to close to the edge though, because the winds can make for a terrible accident to those not paying close attention.
The Marine Mammal Center is for those who have already signed up as volunteers and currently is not open to the general public. I intend to sign up soon to help out with our coastal friends.
Please come and enjoy the beauty of the Marin Headlands, and be sure to clean up after yourself! :)
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Such a beautiful place, OMG!
On the day I went, the beautiful beach had HUGE waves. Surfers were wading in the water, but I never saw any of them get up.
In addition to the beach there are tons of hillsides to climb to relax and/or get different views of the Ocean.
PERFECT spot to watch the sunset - weather down at the beach or up on the hillside.
You definitely need to visit this place - you will feel like you've left SF behind, when you're only 15 min away.
You can't call yourself a hiker if you don't hike.
On my quest to hit 30 miles of urban hiking this week, I needed to pull out the big guns, I had already walked 23 mi and needed 7 mi on Sunday to meet my goal.
So my friend and I walked over the GG Bridge and then headed up the Coastal Trail. We had packed a picnic lunch, but weren't really sure of our destination. Just up, and up, and up, and up. For a Sunday afternoon, I was shocked that we saw very few people on the trails. It was a very beautiful hike, filled with incredible vistas. We finally stopped at the top of a mountain in a grassy knoll. Resisting my urge to pluck a bouquet of California Poppies, I distracted myself by gorging on olive bread, Humboldt Fog chevre, Montenebro, and some organic chocolate from our small hometown.
We sat there for awhile, enjoying the view and the fresh air, reluctant to head back to our busy City lives.
Stuffed and silent, we waddled our way down the trail to terminate our terrific trek.
7.6 miles, including the bridge walk = 30.6 mi for the week. Thanks to the Marin Headlands for pushing me over my goal and making me the nauseating overachiever that my friends know and love.
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Ten years living in the Bay Area and not only hadn't been here before but I didn't even know heaven was so close. Shame on me!
GPS made it easy to access. It's right here, a short drive after crossing the Golden Gate. The visitor center told me many things I ignored at the same time that it sparked my curiosity about this mystical spot.
Hiking routes are clearly marked, neatly taken care of. The whole experience, the view, breathtaking.
The way back we didn't use the GPS and followed the red convertible with the black Labrador as a co-pilot instead (where is your camera when you need it?). It was a different way, all along the coast. Amazing.
Note to self: next time you come here, and in order to enjoy the hike, don't bring those cute 2" heel, fake patent leather, ankle-strap, cherry-red pumps.
This is the best place to disconnect from everyday tedium and to get closer to your inner self via deep conversation with good friend.
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It's so amazing to think this treasure is only minutes from the big city. I brought my parents here last weekend and they loved it. We did the Bob Cat Trail / Rodeo Valley loop which was about 4.5 miles. It was great because even though it was Saturday afternoon we hardly passed a soul. Afterward we headed to Rodeo beach for a picnic lunch and finished it off with a trip to the light house which has amazing views of the golden gate and the city.
I am so happy this place is so close. Any time you are in need of a brief reprieve from the busy and noisy city this is the perfect spot.
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Top 5 Reasons to bring your out of town friend to the Marin Headlands:
5. They're only in San Francisco for a few hours and want to "see the city".
4. They hate exercise.
3. They're fascinated with military history/government waste.
2. They're a photographer.
1. They plan to commit suicide in a grand fashion.
The Marin Headlands are just plain incredible. Go when it's sunny, rainy, foggy, sunrise, sunset. You're bound to enjoy the views, the sheer cliffs, flora-softened military installments, and of course, the fresh ocean-salt breeze.
Oh, also, if you come in from the southern end, be prepared for a windy road that looks like it's a sheer cliff that will drop you into the ocean. A thrill ride in itself. If you come in on the northern end out of Sausalito, be prepared to wait for the longest light ever to go through the one-way tunnel. Woof.
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I had an amazing moment 4 years ago staring out into the pacific, watching a freighter head far, far out to sea. I still remember it.
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Spectacular views that are as good as it gets. The view never seems to be quite the same. Sometimes there is so much fog you can't even see the bridge, but that is an experience all by itself.
Don't forget to dress accordingly, it is cold and windy most of the time!
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This is just one of the most amazing things to see in SF! I love bringing guests here and it never disappoints. The old tunnels from the fort are fun and Hawk Hill is just beautiful. It is amazing to realize you are above GG Bridge - and on certain foggy days, you are above the fog and can see the tips of the bridge.
Stunning.
Ran the Pirates Cove 20k race today and I'll tell you that its one hell of a wild ride! Great trails and the views are spectacular and breathtaking! Be it trail running or hiking this is a must visit for any one from out of town or hometown folks!!
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1/4/2009
I ran The Northface Challenge there in Dec. '08 and the place is spectacular!!!! I've never entered… Read more »
Ah..Marin Headlands..a Bay Area treasure.
This place is so expansive and beautiful. My ex and I use to come here and explore on days we wanted to de-stress.
One special day a few months ago, we packed a picnic lunch and found a secluded spot high above on the cliffs. We sat on an old log and enjoyed our lunch in silence with the beautiful Golden Gate Bridge and Pacfic Ocean providing us much needed therapy. Behind us, majestic trees lined the cliffs in a unifying stance and my love and I sipped on glasses of chilled Chardonney and listened to the melodies of a lone trumpter who had also found a haven within the Headlands.
It was a remarkable day in a remarkable place.
The Obvious: The Marin Headlands are absolutely amazing (see the 100 previous reviews)
My Two Cents: BOBCATS! Lots of em here. I'm crazy about Bobcats. They're my favorite local wildlife by far. Even on the sometimes crowded Tennessee Valley trail, you have a good chance of seeing one, especially if your hike is nearish dawn or dusk. They are very used to seeing humans hiking all around and tend to go about hunting as if you didn't exist.
On one inspiring all day Headlands hike including the Miwok, Coyote and Tennessee Valley trails, we spotted an amazing *five* Bobcats. I've never seen more than one Bobcat per hike since, but the obsession was born.
Hike quietly, and keep your eyes scanning the hills, and you have a very good chance of spotting one of the urban Bay Area's few remaining graceful predators.
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