Touring * Beginner * Historic *

From U.S. 101 heading north, take the first Candlestick Park exit and follow Harney Road to Candlestick Park. Turn right on Jamestown Avenue Extension. The entrance to the recreation area parking lot is about a quarter of a mile farther up on the right. From U.S. 101 heading south, take the Candlestick Park/Beatty Avenue exit. Follow the signs to Candlestick Park, looping around to the right on Alana Way to go back under the freeway. Follow Harney Way to Candlestick Park, where you'll turn right on Jamestown Avenue Extension, about a quarter of a mile from the entrance to the recreation area parking lot.

Candlestick Point State Recreation Area is a small state-run park that sits in the shadow of Candlestick Park, where the San Francisco Giants and 49ers play. The park trails are short and quirky in character, but perfectly suited for beginners. Dress in layers for this excursion: like many areas near the bay, it can be uncomfortably cold and windy. The recreation area has a maze of nicely paved trails that are fun for folks on wheels looking for an adventure at the edge of the bay. Some of the trails seem to beckon you into the distance only to end abruptly. One trail ends at a strange Stonehengelike structure built from broken chunks of concrete. Another trail is gated by sculpted concrete walls that seem to promise grandness to come, but it never materializes. You'll also find nicely maintained picnic areas, grassy play areas, plenty of rest rooms and water fountains, and even a small beach. Of course, you should avoid this area during Giants and 49ers home games, when the traffic is dreadful.