Parks

A light dusting of snow on Mt. Tamalpais
Things to do in the parks this winter

We get more mild winters here in the Golden Gate National Parks then some of our friends at parks like Yosemite or Yellowstone—but we certainly do have subtle seasonal changes to enjoy.

Visitors enjoy Alcatraz Island.
The new Alcatraz experience: Now is the time to escape to Alcatraz Island!

In this article, we’ll get you set up with some tips to explore Alcatraz like a seasoned park ranger. Visit for those views, for the lush gardens, and the history that ties into present-day social justice movements. Here are some of our insider tips.

Waves crashing over rocks at Marshall's Beach with Golden Gate Bridge in the background.
Marshall's Beach
San Francisco

While visiting the biodiverse shorelines of the Presidio, you can’t get much closer to the Golden Gate Bridge than at Marshall’s Beach. This rugged stretch of sand and rocks is a favorite destination for photographers. Even clothing-optional sunbathers are known to frequent on warm days.

A visitor takes a photo on Alcatraz Island.
New Alcatraz outdoor audio tour app helps visitors explore historic island

Alcatraz Cruises has limited passenger capacity on ferries to the island to 20% and also enlisted enhanced safety measures on the dock and the boats to help reduce the potential spread of Covid-19. This is truly a special time to have this historic island almost entirely to yourself.

Screenshot of Matt Davis Trail on Mt. Tam using Street View
Take a Virtual Tour of Mt. Tam Using Street View

See some of your favorite spots and trails on Mt. Tam.

Screenshot of Golden Gate Bridge using Street View
Take a Virtual Tour of the Golden Gate Bridge Using Street View

Take a digital ride on the iconic span.

Screenshot of Tennessee Valley Beach in the Marin Headlands
Take a Virtual Tour of the Tennessee Valley Using Street View

Get panoramic views of Tennessee Valley.

Hikers near Muir Beach
How to Navigate our Park Virtual Tours Using Street View

Learn how to use Street View for a virtual tour of the parks.

Screenshot of Rodeo Beach on Google Street View
Take a Virtual Tour of the Marin Headlands Using Street View

See some of your favorite spots and trails in the Marin Headlands.

A coyote explores the Presidio of San Francisco.
Keeping coyotes and all wildlife wild in the GGNRA

Spring is coyote pupping season in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Get tips on how you can safely enjoy the GGNRA alongside the wild animals that call it home.

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