Fort Miley Batteries

What you need to know

What’s There

Fort Miley’s gun batteries are abandoned military emplacements from the Endicott-era coastal defense system, built between 1899 and 1902 to protect San Francisco Bay. The batteries sit on high ground above the Pacific near Lands End. The big-bore guns were removed in 1948. The concrete bunkers, magazines, and gun mounts are open to walk through.

The interiors are dark concrete corridors and rooms. Graffiti covers most surfaces. The batteries connect to the Lands End Trail and the Coastal Trail.

The views from the high ground extend to the Pacific, the Marin Headlands, and the Golden Gate Bridge. On clear days the Farallon Islands are visible.

Visiting

Address: Near the VA Medical Center, Clement Street at 42nd Avenue, Outer Richmond

Hours: Dawn to dusk. No gate.

Cost: Free

What to know: The batteries are not lit or maintained. Watch your step: uneven floors, low ceilings, dark interiors. Bring a flashlight or phone light. The coastal wind is strong.

Getting There

Transit: Muni 38-Geary to 42nd Avenue, then walk toward the coast.

Parking: Free lot at the Lands End Lookout Visitor Center, or street parking near the VA Medical Center.

Walking: Connects directly to the Lands End Trail and the Coastal Trail toward Baker Beach.