Milagra Ridge

One of several locations around the Bay Area that were once Nike missile defense sites but are now under the protection of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Milagra Ridge is a worthy place to explore. Located to the west of Highway 1 and nestled in the suburb of Pacifica, this little open space is dog friendly and popular with local walkers. It can be approached from several points, but one of the nicest is from the parking area at the end of Connemara Drive off of the coast highway. From the trailhead, it is a gentle grade to the east up to the flat overlook that provides great views of the Pacific Ocean. Further up the trail are the remains of a Nike bunker built into the hillside. This bunker is now welded shut, but the interior is still visible from the entrance. There are several concrete structures to explore (now heavily decorated with graffiti), but the bulk of the launch site has been eradicated. The last part of the trail to the top of the ridge expands the views up and down the coast and is an excellent spot to catch a sunset.