OAKWOOD VALLEY & ALTA AVENUE

Quick Facts

Site Description

The people who once lived in Oakwood Valley planted rows of eucalyptus to mark boundaries and serve as windbreaks. Unattended for the past twenty years, these trees have grown into dense groves, some as large as five acres. As the groves expand, which happens at a rate of 10–15 feet per year, they displace the oaks and local flora that serve as habitat for the coyotes, butterflies, and other critters who live in this special place.

Today, this valley supports the largest stand of oak and bay forest in the Golden Gate National Parks. Ancient oak trees with a rich understory of ferns and other woodland perennials characterize this community. Located near the park entrance to Tennessee Valley, this site is a favorite of local community members, many of whom walk their dogs or stroll through the valley daily. Volunteers at this site work to restore and preserve the ecological integrity of the valley, which is threatened by highly invasive non-native plants.

Above the valley to the east, the ridgeline, known as Alta Avenue, supports native grass communities and wildlife, most notably, the endangered Mission Blue Butterfly.

Support Our Work

Donate
If you are interested in learning about how you can support improvements at Oakwood Valley and Alta Avenue, please contact Development Director Kathryn Morelli by e-mail or call (415) 561-3050.

Get Dirty
Lend a hand! We rely on community support to maintain the amazing landscape improvements at our sites. It’s fun, it’s healthy, it makes a difference, and it’s easy to get started. To learn more, visit our volunteer page or call us at (415) 561-3077.

Restoration Sites

Marin Team >
Dias Ridge
Muir Beach
Oakwood Valley
Wolfback Ridge 

San Francisco Team >
Lands End
Presidio Bluffs

San Mateo Team >
Milagra Ridge
Mori Point