As the end of 2017 approaches, we must not only look towards the future but into the past as well. From natural disasters to tragic occurrences, some historic events will never be forgotten. One such event that caused monumental destruction throughout our city was the infamous 7.8 magnitude earthquake that occurred on April 18, 1906. Read on to learn more about the dramatic 1906 earthquake that forever changed San Francisco.
After the earthquake hit, destructive and deadly fires broke out in the city and lasted for many days.
San Franciscans were resourceful and went back to business just a few weeks after the earthquake, though it took around 9 years to rebuild San Francisco to all its former glory.
Nature lovers from all over the world are often drawn to the natural attractions in San Francisco. Some of these highlights include the City by the Bay's breathtaking landscape which consists of rocky cliffs that drop straight into the Pacific and massive hills that get caught up in a dense blanket of fog. Without further ado, take a look at eight of the most incredible natural wonders worth visiting when you want to explore some nature spots in San Francisco, California.
While they aren't exactly hidden, we can't ignore that San Francisco's epic hills
are some of the city's most prominent features. The number of actual hills in San Francisco depends on how you define a "hill." The estimated count falls between 42 and 50. Either way, they give the city so much of its beauty and charm. Yet, one of the many reasons why residents tend to stay in tip-top shape.
As it eerily creeps across the city, enveloping us in its mystical vapors, the fog in San Francisco is like nothing else. It even has a name and a Twitter account! The best time to experience this natural attraction in San Francisco is from June through August - during those chilly Bay Area summer days and nights.
Another unique nature thing to do in San Francisco is to take in the rocky coastline along the Pacific. This can best be experienced on the Lands End and Batteries to Bluffs Trails in the city.
Even taking out all the manmade wonders such as the Cliff House, the Sutro Baths ruins, the Golden Gate Bridge, and this labyrinth, walking along the Coastal Trail will have you weaving your way up and down the coastline. It's truly a nature lover's paradise.
4. The Sandy Specific Beaches: Ocean, Baker, Mile Rock, China, and Marshall Beaches
The sandy Pacific beaches line the northern and western edges of San Francisco, including the expansive Ocean Beach; the hidden gems of China Beach, Mile Rock Beach, and Marshall Beach. There's also the beautiful Baker Beach with its spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Marin Headlands. Hint: You can get to all of these natural attractions in San Francisco if you follow the trails mentioned in #3.
A dense eucalyptus forest sits atop the slopes of this 900-foot hill near the geographical center of the city. Former San Francisco mayor Adolf Sutro planted this forest over a century ago. Karl the Fog loves to hang out in this nature spot in San Francisco. This creates an ethereal cloud forest that'll quickly have you forgetting that you're right in the middle of a bustling city.
This small group of rock formations in the Lands End area, (near the Cliff House and Sutro Bath ruins), used to be home to a population of sea lions (hence its name). They're now mostly taken over by birds. However, they remain a beautiful natural wonder in San Francisco.
Some 3,000 years ago, Angel Island was a fishing and hunting site for Coast Miwok Native Americans. Over the centuries, it became a home for Spanish explorer Juan Manuel de Ayala. It was also a cattle ranch, a U.S. Army post, an immigration inspection site and detention facility, a Nike missile base, and even a site where WWII POWs were held. In 1954, it was named a state park and officially opened its doors to the public. When you walk its rugged trails, you'll be able to capture spectacular views of the city and the bay from this stunning natural attraction in San Francisco.
While they're not technically "natural wonders," since the original herd was placed here by humans in Golden Gate Park way back in the 1890s, seeing bison in the middle of a major city is pretty cool any way you slice it. The bison you will find today, near Spreckels Lake and just off John F. Kennedy Drive in Golden Gate Park, are descendants of 1984 birthday presents given to mayor Dianne Feinstein.
Along with the spots on this list, what are some of your favorite nature things to do in San Francisco? Feel free to share your thoughts in the following comments section.
If you're a nature lover, then San Francisco and the Bay area is an idyllic place to live or vacation. There are many spots in and near our fine city that will make you yearn for a peaceful and dramatic natural landscape. What are you waiting for? Grab a water bottle, pack up the car, and visit one of these incredible natural oases.
This is a fantastic hike in the city that features marvelous vista points of everything from the sea to rocky cliffs. Hike to a lookout to watch the sunset or explore the area around this iconic area like Sutro Baths.
Address: Seal Rock Dr & El Camino Del Mar, San Francisco, 94101
A nature lover's delight! Visit classic redwoods and mammoth trees that will surely impress most anyone nearby in Mill Valley. Muir Woods contains six miles of trails and has views of thousands of old-growth coast redwoods that are some of the tallest in the world.
Point Reyes National Seashore is a real escape from city life complete with majestic views and even wild animals. The Point Reyes National Seashore has more than 150 miles of trails that meander through the rolling hills of Point Reyes. The main attraction is the 60 miles of shoreline.
Address: 1 Bear Valley Road, Point Reyes Station, 94956
Fitzgerald Marine Reserve is often overlooked but offers plenty of natural beauty. This area is 40 minutes south of San Francisco and is a popular place to catch sunsets and recharge in the beauty of nature.
Sharp Beach is at Mori Point with sweeping sea views. The trail down the stairs to the beach in Pacifica is a bit steep, but the views are worth it. The best part? This beautiful oasis is located only 20 minutes from the city.
A green oasis full of vegetation not too far from the city. Ring Mountain offers easy hiking with great views. Walk around and enjoy the wildflowers in season.
Butano Park is a perfect escape from the madness of the city. Once you are in this part of California the serene peace among the redwoods and greenery will make you happy.
