Fort Baker: A Coastal Fortress Reborn
Explore a historic US Army post reborn as a national park site with stunning Golden Gate Bridge views, hiking trails, and preserved military architecture in Sausalito.
Nestled at the northern foot of the Golden Gate Bridge in Sausalito, California, Fort Baker is a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and stunning views. This former U.S. Army post, dating back to the early 1900s, has been transformed into a vibrant part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Visitors can explore well-preserved military buildings, wander along scenic trails offering breathtaking vistas of the San Francisco Bay, and discover the unique ecosystem that supports the endangered Mission Blue butterfly. Whether you're interested in military history, outdoor recreation, or simply soaking in the iconic scenery, Fort Baker offers a memorable experience for all. Its location provides a unique vantage point, often bathed in sunshine even when other parts of the Bay Area are shrouded in fog, making it a consistently appealing destination. The blend of historical significance and natural splendor makes Fort Baker a must-visit location.
A brief summary to Fort Baker
- Sausalito, California, 94965, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Pack layers, as the weather at Fort Baker can change quickly, with sunshine and fog often alternating throughout the day.
- Explore the trails around Battery Yates for panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline.
- Visit Horseshoe Cove for a chance to spot local wildlife, including harbor seals and various bird species.
- Take advantage of the self-guided cell phone tour to learn about the history and natural features of Fort Baker.
- Consider visiting on a weekday or early on a weekend to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Sausalito, take the Golden Gate Transit Route 130 bus towards San Francisco or San Rafael. The bus departs from Bridgeway & Pine St in Sausalito and arrives at Alexander Ave & Bunker Rd, a 19-minute walk to Fort Baker. The bus fare is approximately $2-$7. From the bus stop, follow Bunker Road, then Moore Road to reach the main area of Fort Baker. Alternatively, from San Francisco, take the Golden Gate Transit Route 130 bus from Van Ness Ave & Clay St to Hwy 101 & Alexander Ave. The bus fare is approximately $5-$7.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Sausalito, a taxi or ride-share to Fort Baker takes approximately 6 minutes and costs between $12-$15. From San Francisco, a taxi or ride-share takes approximately 15 minutes and costs $30-$40, depending on traffic.
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Driving
From Highway 101, take the Alexander Avenue exit. Follow Alexander Avenue and signs for Fort Baker. Parking is available at Horseshoe Cove and near the Bay Area Discovery Museum. Parking is free, but can be limited, especially on weekends. There are designated accessible parking spaces near the fishing pier and waterfront.
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Walking
From the Golden Gate Bridge Welcome Center, follow the steps down to the Battery East Trailhead and continue along the road to Fort Point National Historic Site. From there, continue along the coastal trail to Fort Baker. This walk offers scenic views of the bridge and bay. Alternatively, from Sausalito, it's approximately a 44-minute walk to Fort Baker.
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