Parks

California poppies seen in the Golden Gate national parks.
Parks
Make sure you preserve the bloom in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area! Check out some of our top picks for trails that have wildflowers without the crowds.
The view from the Alcatraz Cruises boat to Alcatraz Island.
Parks
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.
Seal Rocks seen in the Pacific Ocean near San Francisco's Lands End.
Parks
A sign at Lands End states: "Terrains that have been shaped by human activity in response to nature have a name—cultural landscapes." Here's a sampling of what you can learn on one of our member tours of the area.
Stairs down to Black Sands Beach
Parks
Beach
You’ll feel like a pirate as you descend the steps to the black sand on this hidden beach in the Marin Headlands.
NPS Ranger pushes beach wheelchair into storage
Parks
Beach Wheelchairs are available upon request via the National Park Service. Please provide at least 5 days advanced notice.
Some spots in the Golden Gate National Parks, like this overlook in Tennessee Valley, are wonderful for reflection.
Parks
Beach
The 1.8-mile, well-groomed trail to Tennessee Beach begins at the trailhead parking lot, about a mile down Tennessee Valley Road.
The Golden Gate Bridge as seen from China Beach.
Parks
China Beach, the small, sandy cove nestled between Baker Beach and Lands End, isn’t just a hidden gem, it’s a prized jewel.
Lidia D'Amico opens a window to the ocean on Alcatraz.
Gateways Article
National Park Service biologist Lidia D’Amico works, in short, for the birds.
Overlooking Stinson Beach
Parks

The GGNRA's Best Beaches in the North Bay

Whether you’re a beachcomber, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking breathtaking views, the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) parklands in Marin County have a coastal paradises for everyone.

Rodeo Valley Trail
Parks
Learn more about the "Leave No Trace Seven Principles" to help minimize our actions may have on plants, animals, other people, and even entire ecosystems.