Parks

As the summer draws to a close and the Institute at the Golden Gate moves into its next phase of programming, the team is reading a number of great sources for inspiration. What are the staff’s essential end-of-summer reading picks?

For just a few weeks each year, Red-necked Phalaropes visit Rodeo Lagoon in the Marin Headlands. This brief migratory stopover for these slender shorebirds allows birders a good view of this unique species. Click to learn why these birds are so unusual.

As one of the few staff working in Tennessee Valley, Liz Ponzini (manager of our Tennessee Valley Nursery) is well-acquainted with the natural wonders of the area—including the local wildlife. Read on to get the inside scoop for your next hike in this remarkable valley.

Ditch the summer fog for the sunny peaks of our Golden Gate National Parks in Marin County. Have some fun in the sun on this eight-mile hike and finish it off with a frothy pint at the local English inn!

Early last month, dog walker Debra Wood came across an extremely rare sight at Calera Creek in Pacifica: coast garter snakes (Thamnophis elegans terrestris) massing near the creek! Read on to learn more about this amazing natural phenomenon.

Trail Mix. Scroggin. Gorp. Studentenfutter. Schmogle. Great names for a great snack! Try one of our specially formulated blends on your next park outing. Read on for some of our favorite recipes.

To build excitement for National Trails Day on June 2, 2012, we are putting you to the (trail) test. Flex your brain muscles to identify the park and the trail in the photos below and discover what type of trail aficionado (or not!) you are.

As you are out enjoying the parks this summer, be sure to take a closer look and appreciate the many ways that plants have adapted to ecological conditions to disperse their seeds.

Invasive species cause an imbalance to native communities and upset the food web that has long been established. 

International Migratory Bird Day has been celebrating migratory birds for 20 years, and here in the Golden Gate National Parks a free IMBD event has been held for 12 years running. Join us at Muir Woods on May 12, 2012 for bird walks, demonstrations, games and activities, and a chance to meet a live Spotted Owl!