Middle earth is a term linked to J. R. R. Tolkien and there is spot in the city that feels like you’re in a surreal place. Where? Look no further than the Presidio specifically the Spire by Andy Goldsworthy on the Bay Area Ridge Trail. More information about the Bay Area Ridge Trail at the Presidio can be found here .
When you're in the Presidio this gate starts at the Arguello Gate. Overall, the Bay Area Ridge Trail is a continuous 550-mile multi-use loop. There is a 2.5-mile section that passes through the Presidio that takes you to the depths of this magical park.
The Bay Area Ridge Trail in total circles the highest and most picturesque points around San Francisco Bay. Currently, 340 miles of the loop is open to the public, but today we will cover 2.5 miles of the trail.
Dress for possible coastal fog that often lingers until afternoon. The entire trail is not always within the covered parts of the Presidio, but dress for typical and finicky city weather.
Once you've started hiking the along the Bay Area Ridge Trail, you might be surprised to discover a Presidio landmark that may look odd. If you don't know what it is this peak/spire may look like something from Middle Earth.
The Spire is a sculpture by the artist Andy Goldsworthy. Whether you know the piece of work or not, the effect of this spire in Presidio is fascinating and mystifying.
Make sure to look at this impressive structure to get the full effect. The spire by Goldsworthy is a powerful symbol of the rejuvenation of the celebrated Presidio forest.
This is the ideal trail because you can enjoy a good deal of varied environments. The portion featuring the Presidio’s forest is the most mysterious.
Along the way you'll be walking through forests and grasslands, eventually you'll come upon coastal bluffs.
If you decide to hike the whole Bay Area Ridge trail you'll pass by the National Cemetery and end up with a view of the Golden Gate Bridge. All in all, this is an unforgettable hike and experience.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.