Virtual Guidebook to Marin and the North Bay Counties
Conzelman Road
Golden Gate National Recreation Area California

Conzelman Road has some of the most jaw-dropping views in California. It was built to service the military installations along the Marin Headlands, and climbs steadily from the north end of the Golden Gate Bridge to Hawk Hill, then drops down west towards Point Bonita. First stop is Battery Spencer, with the giant red bridge so close it seems unreal. Just past there a dirt road/trail drops to Kirby Cove, a little-known campsite right at sea level on the Golden Gate.

Conzelman Road should not be missed by anyone visiting San Francisco. Drive (or walk) across the Golden Gate Bridge, take the first Marin exit and go under the freeway then up the hill. First stop at Battery Spencer, maybe one of the next two viewpoints, then park and walk to the top of Hawk Hill. Most people turn around where it becomes one-way westbound, but if you have time continue on to Point Bonita and the Nike Base, or at least to the beach at Fort Cronkite. Return through the tunnel and down to Sausalito, or back to the city.