Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Welcome to one of the world's largest and most beautiful urban area parks, the magnificent Golden Gate National Recreation Area located in the San Francisco Bay Area. This description, like most on this website was written by me, Taylor Marshall, the site founder and owner, and Congress first established this park in 1972 which means my Cousin Dick (President Richard Nixon) signed the bill into law. Over 17 million people visit this park each year. Some of it's features include the historic (and possibly haunted) Alcatraz Island, Crissy Field, and over 250 miles of trails.

Wildlife: It is estimated that nearly half of all bird species found in North American have been sited in the park as well as a third of all California plant species. Some of the other wildlife include harbor seals, coyotes, black tailed deer, bats, and many others.

Trails: As mentioned above Golden Gate National Recreation Area boasts over 250 miles of trails.

The Tennessee Valley Trail (this name is a bit deceiving isn't it?) is about 1.75 miles long and in places is nearly 14 feet wide. About 3 quarters of a mile of the trail is paved making it accessible to people in wheelchairs.

The Point Bonita Lighthouse Trail is half a mile long and unlike the Tennessee Valley Trail this name is not deceiving as it really does lead to a lighthouse where you can catch some great views of the Pacific Coast and Ocean. It has an elevation gain of about 75 feet.

The Gerbode Valley Loop Trail is more challenging at 5 miles in length with an elevation gain of 900 feet. This trail has some great views of the Marin Headlands, Pacific Ocean, and San Francisco Bay.

The Dias Ridge Trail is challenging at 3 miles in length and a 780 foot gain in elevation. This one is also open to equestrians and mountain bikers. One can see as far as the Farallon Islands on clear days.

The Muir Woods Main Trail is 2 miles long with only a 30 foot gain in elevation. This trail will take you through some redwood forest.

To contact the park office please call 415-561-4700.