Betty Lou Vickery, 93, lived on Alcatraz when it was a military prison, visits the Island again.

The main entrance to Muir Woods, which features the Muir Woods Visitor Center, is on Muir Woods Road — a winding road down to the valley floor from Panoramic Highway above. While you do need a Muir Woods parking reservation if you want to park your car in the lot at the entrance, you don't need a reservation to actually enter Muir Woods.

Get a sneak peek at new things to find on the island as we celebrate 50 years of Alcatraz being open to the public as a national park site, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Get an inside look at the penitentiaries and reformatories that once held inmates, have become increasingly popular tourist attractions.

This San Francisco Chronicle Op‑Ed by Parks Conservancy President and CEO Christine Lehnertz underscores the essential role of partnership as national parks face growing challenges. From Alcatraz to Crissy Field, Chris highlights how sustained collaboration and your support help keep these parks strong.

Each year, more than 18 million visitors come to the Bay Area’s national parks to share special moments at rocky beaches, wooded areas, and historical sites. These exceptional destinations give daters a chance to unplug and connect with the environment outside the city.