Wrapping around the southern edge of the island, this 0.6-mile, easy walking trail features plenty of spiky succulent namesake (planted to slow erosion and serve as a verdant fence), and breathtaking views of the San Francisco skyline. This trail offers a chance to take a walk on the wild side, see birds, tidepools and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

This trail heads South from the islands dock and leads you around the southern end of the island, before climbing onto the historic Parade Ground. The agave or century plants found along this trail were planted by the U.S. Army. The rubble piles you see here were once Apartments that housed Correctional Officers and their families. These buildings were torn down by the General Services Administration following the Indiand Occupation. Today, the Parade Ground is home to the largest colony of nesting Western Gulls in the San Francisco Bay Area. Black Crowned Night Herons, Snowy Egrets and Great Blue Herons all can be found roosting amidst the rubble piles.

*Note: This trail is only open outside of these birds nesting season. It typically opens in late October and closes with the return of the birds in mid January.