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A distant shot of people walking along the Batteries to Bluffs trail with the Golden Gate Bridge in the background on a sunny day.

Batteries to Bluffs Trail

Enjoy a rugged nature walk with incredible views of the Pacific Ocean and Marin Headlands.

Region

Golden Gate Region

Use Type

Pedestrian-only Trail

Top Amenities

Paid Parking, Free Parking, Golden Gate View, Muni Bus-accessible, Shuttle-accessible

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Batteries to Bluffs – a short, majestic route snaking along the park’s rugged western shoreline – is a nature trail that feels miles from the city.

It begins on a high note – literally. Start at one of the two trailheads near Lincoln Boulevard (off the California Coastal Trail) and enjoy a breathtaking view of the Golden Gate Bridge with the coastal bluffs tumbling to the rocky shore below.

The scenery is exceptional. If you’re lucky, you may see dolphins riding a wave or spot a grey whale. But pay attention to what’s right next to you. Depending on the season, the path comes alive with native dune plants and wildflowers as butterflies and birds enjoy the bright flora.

You’ll crisscross trickling seeps and hidden springs along the way to Battery Crosby, a historic gun battery. You can also descend a path that connects to Marshall’s Beach, where some dare to go bare. Baker Beach is also accessible via the Sand Ladder.

Note: Dogs are not allowed on the Batteries to Bluffs Trail. This trail features 470 stairs.

Presidio Trails Tip

The closest restrooms are at Fort Scott Ballfield near the intersection of Lincoln Boulevard and Storey Avenue. There are also restrooms at the Golden Gate Bridge and Baker Beach.

Length

0.7 miles (1.0 kilometers)

Activity Level

Moderate

Trail Use Type

Pedestrian only

Trail Surface

Compact soil and wooden steps

Estimated Walking Time

14 minutes

Batteries to Bluffs trail with steps and sign-post and Golden Gate Bridge in the background.
There are 470 stairs along the trail. Photo by Paul Myers.
Man sitting while overlooking the Batteries to Bluffs trail with the Golden Gate Bridge in background.
This trail offers a natural escape. Photo by Myleen Hollero.
Sign leading to Marshall’s Beach.
Marshall’s Beach can only be accessed from this trail. Photo by Gillian Ewing.

Getting to the Batteries to Bluffs Trail

Batteries to Bluffs Trail Route

Map of Batteries to Bluffs Trail

Trailheads

This trail can be entered at either the California Coastal Trail trailhead north of the Sand Ladder at Baker Beach on Lincoln Boulevard or further north near Golden Gate Overlook.

Parking & Public Transit

If you start at the south end, the closest parking is at Baker Beach, and it’s free. If you start at the north end, park at Golden Gate Overlook in the Langdon Court parking lot off Lincoln Boulevard. To get to the Presidio by bus or shuttle, visit the Public Transit page. 

Downloadable Maps

 

Presidio Trail Map
Presidio Bike Map
Presidio Visitor Map

Connecting Trails

 

 

California Coastal Trail

The 2.7-mile segment of this trail that runs through the Presidio starts at the 25th Avenue Gate near Baker Beach, traces the rocky coastal bluffs, and ends at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

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People on the Coastal Trail near the batteries and Golden Gate Overlook with Golden Gate Bridge in the background.Photo by Paul Myers.