Recognizing Muir Woods' Centennial Year, the Chronicle takes an in-depth look at the national monument's past, present, and future, with special emphasis on the ecological complexities and challenges in the Redwood Creek watershed.

Perched on a small plateau off the main Coastal Trail, the labyrinth in San Francisco's Lands End is an inviting outdoor creation: a simple strolling circuit with unmatched views of the Marin Headlands and Golden Gate Bridge.

The Golden Gate Raptor Observatory, a Parks Conservancy program, helps in the recovery of two red-tailed hawks contaminated from the Cosco Busan oil spill in November.

An international model for environmental education, Crissy Field Center brings outdoors experiences and ecological awareness to underserved youth. Through innovative Parks Conservancy programs, young people overcome "nature deficit disorder" by reconnecting with the environment.

Thanks to a generous bequest from the late Chuck Wofford and the efforts of volunteers and staff, the Parks Conservancy and National Park Service unveiled the newly refurbished Battery Townsley. The top-secret facility in the Marin Headlands, an anchor of American coastal defenses during World War II, was restored after years of neglect and is now open for tours.