California Coastal Trail

This rugged coastal nature trail showcases history, habitats, and Golden Gate Bridge views.

Region

Golden Gate Region

Use Type

Pedestrian-only Trail, Multi-use Trail (Paved), Multi-use Trail (Unpaved), Bikes in Roadway, Pedestrians on Roadside

Top Amenities

Accessible Parking, Accessible Restrooms, Paid Parking, Free Parking, Bike Parking

Walk on the edge of the continent above the Pacific, enjoying nature and history along the way.

The California Coastal Trail is a 1,200-mile, route stretching along the Pacific coastline from Mexico to Oregon. The 2.7-mile Presidio segment connects Baker Beach to the Golden Gate Bridge with expansive Pacific Ocean views along the way.

If you start at the south end, walk along the beach past Battery Chamberlin. Further north, you’ll pass the popular sand ladder at Baker Beach.

As you walk on, the native blooms and shrubs, windswept Monterey cypress, and the craggy shoreline below add to the stunning beauty of this classic Presidio trail, where you’ll feel like you’re far from the city.

You’ll eventually reach sister overlooks – Pacific Overlook and Golden Gate Overlook – each with its own postcard-perfect view. Pause to take in the grandeur.

At the end, your reward is the Golden Gate Bridge. Stop into the Welcome Center to learn how the span was created – and to pick up a memento.

Presidio Trails Tip

Restrooms are at Baker Beach and at the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center. You’ll find refreshments at the Round House Cafe.

Length

2.7 miles (4.4 kilometers)

Activity Level

Moderate

Trail Surface

Asphalt and compacted soil.

Estimated Walking Time

48 minutes

Estimated Biking Time

15 minutes

Cyclists should note that there is a dedicated bike lane on Lincoln Boulevard. The route also includes a bicycle/pedestrian bridge that connects to the Golden Gate Bridge for easy access to the Marin Headlands.

Photo of a family on the dirt path near along the California Coastal Trail near the Golden Gate Bridge and the Batteries.

The California Coastal Trail is a great family walk. Photo by Paul Myers.

Man and woman walking along a dirt trail next to a roadside with the Pacific Ocean in the background.

This trail traces the edge of the Pacific. Photo by Myleen Hollero.

People walking up the Batteries to Bluffs Trail toward the California Coastal Trail.

The Batteries to Bluffs Trail connects to the California Coastal Trail. Photo by Myleen Hollero.

Three people taking a photo of the Golden Gate Bridge from the California Coastal Trail.

This trail has some of the best Golden Gate Bridge views. Photo by Myleen Hollero.

A dozen people walking or sitting on the sand at Baker Beach.

Baker Beach is at the south end of the trail. Photo by Myleen Hollero.

Getting to the California Coastal Trail

Trailheads

From the south end, pick up this trail at Baker Beach. At the north end, pick it up just northwest of the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center.

Parking & Public Transit

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.