Fort Baker: A Historic Coastal Defense Post

Explore a historic fort under the Golden Gate Bridge with stunning views, hiking trails, and family-friendly activities in Sausalito, California.

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Nestled at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge in Sausalito, Fort Baker is a former U.S. Army post transformed into a national park site. With stunning views of the San Francisco Bay, it offers a blend of history, recreation, and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Fort Baker

Sausalito, California, 94965, US
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Local tips

Even when other areas are foggy, Fort Baker is often sunny.
Hike the trails around Fort Baker for views and to spot the endangered mission blue butterfly.
Visit the fishing pier at Horseshoe Cove; no fishing license is required.

Getting There

Public Transport

From San Francisco, take the Golden Gate Ferry to Sausalito. The one-way fare is approximately $14 for adults. From the Sausalito Ferry Landing, you can take the Route 130 bus towards San Francisco and San Rafael. Get off at Alexander Ave & Bunker Rd. From there, it is a 19-minute walk to Fort Baker. Alternatively, from San Francisco, you can take the 130 bus directly to Alexander Ave & Bunker Rd. The bus fare is approximately $5-$7.
Walking

From the Sausalito Ferry Landing, it is approximately a 45-minute walk to Fort Baker. Head south along Bridgeway, then turn left onto East Road. Follow East Road to Fort Baker.
Driving

From Highway 101, take the Alexander Avenue exit. Follow Alexander Avenue to Fort Baker. Parking is available near Horseshoe Cove and the Bay Area Discovery Museum. Parking availability may be limited.

Discover more about Fort Baker

Fort Baker, located in Sausalito, California, is a captivating blend of history and natural beauty, offering visitors a unique experience beneath the Golden Gate Bridge. This 335-acre former U.S. Army post, dating back to the early 1900s, played a crucial role in the defense of the San Francisco Bay for over a century. Originally the Lime Point Military Reservation in 1850, the area was acquired by the U.S. government in 1866 to safeguard the bay. Fort Baker was formally established in the 1890s as part of a coastal fortification effort. By 1910, construction was largely complete, featuring Colonial Revival-style buildings, including officer's homes, barracks, and community spaces arranged around a parade ground. The fort was named after Edward Dickinson Baker, a former U.S. Senator from Oregon who died leading Union troops in the Civil War. Transferred to the National Park Service in 2002, Fort Baker has been revitalized through partnerships, resulting in the LEED-certified Cavallo Point lodge and the Institute at the Golden Gate. Visitors can explore historic batteries like Battery Cavallo and Battery Yates, hike trails with views of the Golden Gate Bridge, and enjoy recreational activities such as fishing. The area is also home to the endangered mission blue butterfly. Today, Fort Baker offers a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, and exploring the historic buildings. The Bay Area Discovery Museum provides hands-on activities for children, while Cavallo Point offers dining and lodging options. With its rich history and stunning scenery, Fort Baker provides a unique glimpse into California's past and present.