Trails Forever Projects
Trails Forever has launched a number of exciting trail and conservation projects throughout the Golden Gate National Parks. Learn more about our work below.
Mori Point supports habitat for the most endangered reptile in North America – the San Francisco garter snake. Past land use (including quarrying), the introduction of non-native plants, and the absence of established trails have resulted in the degradation of the vital wetland and grassland habitats that support the garter snake – as well as a diminished visitor experience. Currently, we are developing a community stewardship program and are managing the removal of targeted invasive non-native plant species. Over the next four years, we plan to carry out trail improvements, install directional and educational signs and restore 33 acres of wetland, grassland, and coastal scrub habitat.
Lands End is a wonderful bit of wildness at the edge of a bustling city. Dramatic enhancements have been made to the site including an improved handicapped accessible Coastal Trail segment, new overlooks with seating, a revitalized forest, and over 30,000 new plants. Upcoming work in 2007 includes an improved landscaped parking area and trailhead above Sutro Baths.
The Presidio Bluffs are a showcase for serpentinite, the California state rock, and a refuge for eight of the Park's rare plants. However, the invasion of non-native species are threatening the survival of the bluff's rare plants and unique wildlife. In 2006, high priority invasive plants and select non-native trees were removed to allow for the restoration of wetland and coastal scrub habitats as well as the opening of scenic views from the Coastal Trail. In 2007, Trails Forever began improvements to the Batteries to Bluffs Trail. This project will result in both a safer hiking route along the city's northern coast as well as an improved access to north Baker Beach.
The Southern Marin Headlands' rolling grassland slopes provide important habitat for the endangered mission blue butterfly and provide a sublime backdrop to the vista points and military fortifications that draw millions of visitors to this area each year. Spreading infestations of non-native vegetation threaten the grassland and coastal scrub habitat that characterize these slopes, including plants that are critical to the survival of the mission blue butterfly. Efforts to control target invasive species began in 2006.
Pirates Cove is nestled within some of the Golden Gate National Parks' wildest and most scenic coastal slopes and rugged cliffs. Facing the Pacific Ocean just south of Muir Beach, this area supports dense and relatively undisturbed coastal scrub, prairie, and riparian habitats. Non-native Pampas grass has colonized the cliff faces over the past three decades, spreading inland in areas where non-natural distrubance has occured. In 2006, we began controlling the Pampas grass invasion in an effort to maintain this otherwise pristine wildland habitat. Additionally, an improved Coastal Trail route has been constructed to enhance public access to this special area year round.
On Saturday, January 20th, over 70 people gathered to celebrate the installation of Golden Gate National Parks’ first community trailhead sign at the Richmond District YMCA. Following the opening ceremonies, over 50 of the attendees "hit the trail" with park guides to explore either Mountain Lake's Anza Trail or the Lands End Coastal Trail with NPS and Presidio Trust guides. Lands End walk participants were transported to and from Lands End on Presidigo.
© Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy