Highlight β’ Bridge
Road cycling
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Cycling
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Torpedo Wharf is a historic pier located within the scenic Presidio of San Francisco, California, offering unparalleled views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and the expansive San Francisco Bay. Situated at the mouth of the Golden Gate, this L-shaped wharf, originally established in 1854, holds a rich military past, having served as a naval mine depot for the U.S. Army. Today, it stands as a beloved public fishing pier and a prime viewpoint in the San Francisco Bay Area.
β¦This Highlight is in a protected area
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Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Tips
March 25, 2021
Road cycling
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Details
Informations
Elevation -20Β m
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Max wind speed: 15.0Β km/h
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Torpedo Wharf has a rich history dating back to 1854, when a wharf was first established at this site to aid in the construction of Fort Point. It earned its current name between 1907 and 1909 when the U.S. Army used it as a submarine mine depot, loading what were then called "torpedoes" for harbor defense. The current structure was built in 1941.
Yes, Torpedo Wharf is a key landmark along the Golden Gate Promenade and the Bay Trail. These paved paths offer excellent opportunities for walking, cycling, and trail running, connecting the wharf to other parts of the Presidio and beyond with stunning coastal scenery.
Accessible parking is available near Torpedo Wharf. However, the area can get quite busy, especially on weekends, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended. For public transport, visitors can check local MUNI bus routes that serve the Presidio and Crissy Field area, often requiring a short walk to the wharf.
Absolutely! Torpedo Wharf is considered very family-friendly. The walk along the wharf itself is short and easy, and the adjacent Crissy Field offers open spaces for children to play. The nearby Warming Hut Park Store provides refreshments and shelter, making it a comfortable outing for families.
While pets are not permitted on the Torpedo Wharf pier itself, the surrounding Crissy Field area is very dog-friendly. There are numerous dog-friendly walks and open spaces nearby where your canine companions can enjoy the outdoors, provided they are kept on a leash.
Yes, the Warming Hut Park Store is located right next to Torpedo Wharf. It's a popular spot offering coffee, snacks, and indoor seating, which is particularly welcome on cooler or foggy days. There are also abundant restrooms available in two buildings nearby.
Torpedo Wharf is a popular public fishing pier where no fishing license is required. Anglers can expect to catch a variety of species, including jacksmelt, striped bass, black surfperch, rainbow surfperch, and California halibut. Red crabs and rock crabs are also common catches, though Dungeness crabs are off-limits for keeping in San Francisco Bay.
Torpedo Wharf is a very popular destination and can get quite crowded, especially on weekends, holidays, and warm, sunny days. The good-natured interaction between tourists and fishermen adds to its charm, but if you prefer a more serene experience, consider visiting earlier in the morning.
Yes, Torpedo Wharf and the surrounding Crissy Field area are generally wheelchair accessible. There is accessible parking available nearby, and the paths leading to the wharf are paved and flat, making it easy for visitors using wheelchairs to enjoy the views and atmosphere.
Beyond the diverse fish species caught by anglers, visitors to Torpedo Wharf might spot various marine wildlife. Sea lions are known to make appearances in the waters around the pier, adding an exciting element to the experience. Birdwatchers may also enjoy observing various seabirds.
While Torpedo Wharf itself offers iconic views, exploring the adjacent Crissy Field and the Golden Gate Promenade can reveal other fantastic perspectives. Walking east along the promenade towards the Palace of Fine Arts offers different angles of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, while heading west leads towards Fort Point, providing a unique under-bridge view.