The Presidio Visitor Center is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Stop by for insider tips and park information.
Golden Gate National Recreation Area does not charge entrance fees, except for Muir Woods National Monument, where it is $10 for adults and free for children under 16. An annual pass for Muir Woods is $40.
From San Francisco, take Highway 101 north, crossing the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, and immerse yourself in vast coastal landscapes and historical sites.
At Golden Gate National Recreation Area, parking options include the Southeast Side Visitor Parking Lot with 37 spaces, including accessible spots, at $5/hour for up to 3 hours. No overnight parking. The Northeast Side has free parking with a 4-hour limit. No RV or motorcycle specifics provided. Fees apply at Battery East and West Bluff lots.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Golden Gate National Recreation Area, spanning across Marin, San Francisco, and San Mateo Counties, is a tapestry of diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This expansive park encompasses iconic sites such as Alcatraz Island, Muir Woods National Monument, and the Presidio of San Francisco, each offering a unique slice of history and natural beauty.
The area’s 59 miles of bay and ocean shoreline are dotted with pristine beaches, rugged headlands, and serene estuaries, creating a dramatic coastline that evolves with the seasons. In the spring, wildflowers bloom vibrant colors across the prairies and grasslands, while the autumn brings a golden hue to the forests. The summer months see warm days perfect for hiking the Lands End Trail or the Rodeo Lagoon Loop, with the sound of waves crashing against the shore.
Home to over 3,000 plant and animal species, the park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors can spot harbor seals, sea lions, and a wide array of bird species, including the majestic great blue herons. The historic military fortifications and archeological sites of the Coast Miwok and Ohlone people add a layer of depth to the area’s cultural significance.
For those looking to immerse themselves in the local experience, Crissy Field offers summer concerts and picnics, while ranger-led tours at Muir Woods provide a deeper understanding of the area’s ecology. Nearby, the artisan town of Sausalito beckons with its boutique shops and gourmet eateries. Local outfitters like Sea Trek Kayak & Paddleboard offer guided tours through the tranquil waters of the bay.
- Area (mi²)
- 128
- Annual visitors
- 17 000 000
- Established year
- 1972
Top 3 Facts about Golden Gate National Recreation Area
This area is home to over 2,000 plant and animal species and supports 19 distinct ecosystems, hosting nearly one third of California’s plant species and over half of North American avian species.
In this urban wilderness, nearly 53 mammal species, 250 bird species, 20 reptiles, and 11 amphibians thrive. Coastal ecosystems support whales, seals, and sea lions, while grasslands and wetlands are home to the endangered mission blue butterfly and its host plant, the silver-leaf lupine. As part of the Pacific Flyway, this area is a critical stopover for hundreds of bird species. The diverse flora includes almost a third of California’s plant species, making it a haven for both wildlife and the discerning naturalist.
Along the rugged coastline, the Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary meets the shore, creating a backdrop of turquoise and emerald waters. The Marin Headlands rise dramatically, with mountains reaching heights of over 900 feet, their scrublands and grasslands swathed in a misty veil of fog. Here, geologic formations reveal a diverse array of rock types, shaped by over 100 million years of Earth’s history.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Volunteer & Stewardship
- Youth Conservation
- Scouting Partnerships
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Arts & Crafts
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a few days to explore, especially during the mild spring season. Arrive early, park at designated lots, and visit the visitors center. Anticipate rocky trails, pack meals, and rest often. Don’t miss the Tunnel Tops opening event.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for changing weather, sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, and a reusable water bottle. For longer stays, include camping gear and a first-aid kit. Check the season for specific needs.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain safe distances from wildlife, especially during mating and nesting seasons. Keep pets controlled or leave them home. Never feed wildlife to preserve their natural behaviors and health. Stay on marked trails to protect flora and fauna.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and swift waters, and check weather conditions. Follow signs and park rules. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 415-561-5000. Stay informed to ensure a safe adventure.
Seasons
Spring transforms coastal trails into vibrant wildflower displays. Enjoy mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and celebrate Earth Day and National Park Week with volunteer opportunities and outdoor events, making it an ideal time to visit.[-2]
Summer brings mild temperatures (60s-70s°F) and foggy mornings, ideal for outdoor adventures. August’s Outside Lands Music & Arts Festival showcases music, food, and local art. Perfect time for hiking, biking, and festivals amidst San Francisco’s vibrant culture.
Experience autumn’s mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and crisp weather, ideal for hiking through coastal scrub and riparian zones to see big leaf maples and creek dogwoods. Join the annual Coastal Clean-up Day in September for a unique blend of conservation and scenic beauty.
Winter, from December to February, brings mild temperatures (averaging 49°F) and occasional rain, making for serene hikes, vibrant green landscapes, and whale migrations along the coast. Fewer crowds and dramatic sunsets behind iconic landmarks make this season a hidden gem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Golden Gate National Recreation Area has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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You should stay in San Francisco, as it is the nearest city and many of the park’s sites, including Alcatraz Island and the Presidio, are located within the city. The park also extends into nearby Marin and San Mateo counties, but San Francisco is centrally located for easy access.
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The hike to Point Bonita Lighthouse is highly family-friendly, featuring a short one-mile trail along the coast, a tunnel, and a footbridge. The Tennessee Valley trail is also a good option, as it is one of the five family-friendly hikes in the area. Additionally, the Owl Trail from Muir Beach Overlook to Tide Pools offers a balanced level of challenge and stunning views, making it suitable for kids.
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Dogs are allowed off-leash in specific areas, with 7 locations and 31% of beaches permitting off-leash use. There are also four designated off-leash dog areas in the San Francisco portion. However, most areas require dogs to be on a leash or under voice control.
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There are parking fees at various locations, such as the West Bluff parking lot where it costs $3 per hour or $10 per day, and the southeast lot near the Golden Gate Bridge where it costs $5 per hour with a maximum of 3 hours. Some areas, like the northeast side parking lot, offer free parking with a four-hour limit. Proposed fees are also planned for other sites like Baker Beach and Lands End Lookout.
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Hike through Muir Woods National Monument to see ancient redwood trees, visit Alcatraz Island to explore its historic prison, and walk along the coastline at Lands End for stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Pacific Ocean. You can also explore the newly opened Tunnel Tops park or hike up Sweeney Ridge to the Bay Discovery Site where Spaniards first spotted San Francisco Bay in 1769. Additionally, visit Mori Point for its sweeping ocean views and restored wetlands.