Presidio National Park Rangers Marcus Combs, Cidney Webster, and Will Elder love their office. Their top recommendation is the multifaceted Ecology Trail: “You get everything in such a small area: a grove of redwoods; blooming golden poppies, the state flower; and serpentinite, the state rock,” says Webster. Start from the patio atop Inspiration Point, advises Combs, and take it all the way down to the main post, with a side trip to El Polin Spring. “This quiet spot in a meadow surrounded by eucalyptus doesn’t get many visitors, so it’s one of my favorite places to pack a picnic,” says Combs. “On the way, keep your eyes peeled for the lavender-colored Presidio clarkia,” adds Elder. “Inspiration Point is one of only two sites in the world where you can see this endangered flower.” More information.