Park Stories

Large and majestic, the Ferruginous Hawk is arguably one of the most beautiful raptors we see at the GGRO. And it’s spotted from Hawk Hill no more than 20 times in a given year—adding to its allure and mystique.

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, it’s a time to show some love for those who have made a positive and lasting impression on our lives. Here in the Golden Gate National Parks, one incredible community stands out—our PARK VOLUNTEERS.

Stirring. Stunning. Surprising. Beguiling. These words describe our Golden Gate National Parks—and 13 unforgettable photographs that capture the essence of these parklands and the people who steward them. See the best images from 2013, handpicked by your E-ventures editors.

We’re thrilled to report that 2013 may have been the most successful year yet for the Institute at the Golden Gate. Look back on a remarkable year of influential reports, national convenings, and impactful pilot programs tackling some of society’s most pressing challenges.

The year 2013 was an eventful one for the Crissy Field Center. We were able to serve more youth, said goodbye to some dear staff, welcomed new colleagues, celebrated life events, and even had a few special visitors. Hear what our staff had to say about the memorable year.

One of the things winter visitors in the Marin Headlands might notice is the abundance of waterfowl at Rodeo Lagoon. Most people brush the birds off as just “ducks,” but a closer look reveals a far more complex avian world.

As you stand in the new parking lot at Muir Beach, you may notice the expanse of tan fabric covering the restored floodplain. What is this strange, straw-looking material? The simple answer is jute fabric—but what exactly is it?

Crissy Field—San Francisco’s beloved front yard and one of the Conservancy’s signature projects—continues to evolve as a visitor destination. As we assess its uses and evaluate maintenance needs, we’d love to hear your ideas on improving this shoreline park.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: ‘What are you doing for others?’” On MLK Day of Service in 2014, we hope you’ll be volunteering in our Golden Gate National Parks.

Once a dairy farm, later an Army parade ground, and now an overflow parking area, the “surfer’s lot” at Rodeo Beach is being transformed. Learn more about the project, and some of the plants—grown by the Marin Headlands Nursery—that will help restore wildlife habitat.

What’s the perfect dessert after a stomach-stretching Thanksgiving dinner? An exploration of some sweet trails in and around the Golden Gate National Parks, of course! Here are five hikes that will help your whole family work off that holiday meal.

Why get up at darkness-o’clock to battle mall zombies during the holidays? At www.parksconservancy.org/store, you can shop in comfort and joy from your cozy couch. Get started with our 2013 Gift Guide—featuring a hand-picked selection of this season’s must-haves—and find something for all the park lovers on your list!