Fort Point to Baker Beach Hike

Route Description for Fort Point to Baker Beach Hike

The Fort Point to Baker Beach Hike is a lovely hike atop the coastal headlands, boasting awe-inspiring ocean views and unrivaled sights of the Golden Gate Bridge—be sure to charge your camera! Wandering atop the headlands, there are countless stairs along this route, so be prepared. Additionally, this trail sees windy and foggy conditions, so wear a windbreaker or layers as insurance against changing conditions. Note the north end of Baker Beach is clothing optional.

Setting out from the trailhead off Marine Drive, the Fort Point to Baker Hike wanders south, merging right onto Presidio Promenade, then beneath the Golden Gate Bridge. After crossing beneath the bridge, hikers will connect with the Coastal Trail, passing several batteries and epic overlooks of the famous bridge and the Marin Headlands. Eventually, you will encounter an intersection with the Batteries to Bluffs Trail, which will guide you down the coastal bluffs past the Battery Crosby and back up to the Coastal Trail.

If time permits, take a detour down the Sand Ladder to Baker Beach. Reconnect with the Coastal Trail and hike down to the Battery Chamberlin. Loop around the historical site, then begin your return, retracing your steps all the way back beneath the bridge. From here, follow the Battery East Road before turning left down to the trailhead—marking the end of your adventure.