Angel Island

Last weekend, Alex and I took the ferry to Angel Island, the largest island in the San Francisco Bay.  Angel Island has a deep history and is known as the "Ellis Island of the West".  The Immigration Station on the island was built in order to process an anticipated flood of European immigrants entering the United States during World War I; however, the facility instead served as a detention center for approximately 175,000 Chinese immigrants who came to America between 1910 and 1940.  These immigrants were held on the island for weeks, months, and even years while awaiting approval on their applications.  In contrast, immigrants passing through Ellis Island were processed within hours or days.  While walking around, you can still see buildings and outposts from this time.  

The island today is known for its hiking and beautiful views.  We chose to hike the Sunset Trail which winds around the island and up to the top of Mount Livermore, the highest point on Angel Island.  From the peak, you can see the Bay Bridge, Alcatraz Island, the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco and Marin County.  Although we had beautiful views of Marin County (not a cloud in sight), there was a huge fog cloud blocking the city of San Francisco and part of the Golden Gate Bridge!  Ha!  It was such funny experience looking one way and seeing clear skies and pivoting around to the other side and seeing nothing but fog!  

At the top of Mount Livermore - View of Marin County

At the top of Mount Livermore - View of San Francisco (or at least some of it!)

Golden Gate Bridge

Once we returned back to the mainland, we stopped at Boudin Bakery for a perfect San Francisco lunch of clam chowder in a bread bowl!  It hit the spot after our long hike!

Despite its sordid past, Angel Island is a beautiful place and we enjoyed exploring and learning more about its history.  I know we'll be back to visit again.  Fingers crossed, we may actually see San Francisco next time around!!