BLAUERT: A great trail starts at Lands End

From the southern tip of Baja California at Cabo San Lucas to the most westerly part of England in Cornwall, Lands End is a name that signifies land giving way to vast waters.

Closer to home, the San Francisco Peninsula has its own dramatic Lands End. A trail along this spectacular stretch of coast starts at a small park along the Great Highway, just north of the famous Cliff House restaurant. With several parking areas nearby, you shouldn't have trouble finding a spot.

Start your hike by descending the steps to the shore. The large concrete foundations you see are the ruins of the Sutro Baths, a saltwater swimming complex built in 1896 and in operation until 1966. It sounds odd to hear about a swimming facility burning, but it was a fire what destroyed the baths.

Don't miss the nearby tunnel cut through the cliffs, also open for exploration.

After checking out the ruins, climb back up the steps and follow the signs for the Point Lobos viewpoint. (No, you didn't suddenly transport to the Point Lobos near Carmel.)

From here, signs indicating the Coastal Trail will guide you along the cliffs. The views start out great and get better as you work your way northwest around the edge of the peninsula towards the Golden Gate Bridge.

In the early days, many visitors to the baths arrived on the Ferries and Cliff House Railway. Though a landslide ended its run in 1925, today's Coastal Trail follows the railroad grade. Eagle Point is a good turn-around spot, making a 2½ mile round trip. This is my favorite part of the trail. The views are impressive and the trail goes where roads can't.

If you want to go farther, the trail continues to China Beach, Baker Beach and the Presedio, though it follows roads for a good part of the way.

You'll go up and down quite a few stairs, though the overall elevation gain and loss is minimal. Side trails wind down to small beaches. These treks require a bit more exertion. Cypress groves along the trail frame the Golden Gate Bridge, the waves, and the striking Marin Headlands on the opposite side of the Golden Gate. You will see the concrete that once formed the base of the Mile Rocks Lighthouse, and at low tide you can see the remains of shipwrecks.

The Lands End section of the Coastal Trail is one of the best coastal hikes in Central California.

It's an easy day trip from the San Joaquin Valley or something you can do while in the Bay Area. It's a great place to go on a sunny day. No matter what the weather, don't forget a windbreaker. Unlike many other popular trails, dogs are welcome at Lands End.

Adam Blauert explores the outdoors for the Merced Sun-Star. Contact him at adamblauert@yahoo.com.