Here’s something strange about exploring abandoned places: you often find unexpected stunning views with no crowds. •• I walked up to Battery Spencer on the Marin Headlands and saw this image in front of me. It was me and maybe 4-5 other people total at the edge of the cliff looking out onto the bridge. Every other Golden Gate vista point I’ve tried has dozens of people at least. •• People seem less willing to make their way to spooky abandoned spots, so you never know what surprises you may find there. . . . . .