• View of the Golden Gate Bridge, taken from the Marin Headlands, looking across the bay back towards San Francisco, seen in the distance.

    Golden Gate

    National Recreation Area California

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  • Tunnel to Marin Headlands Closed

    The tunnel on Bunker Road from Alexander Avenue in Sausalito towards the Marin Headlands is closed for construction. Please follow the detour signs to Conzelman Road (just above the north end of the Golden Gate Bridge) to go up over the hill. More »

  • Muir Beach (but not nearby Muir Woods) parking lot closed June-November 2013

    Muir Beach parking lot will be closed from June-November 2013 due to construction. Restrooms or nearby parking will not be available at Muir Beach during this period. Pacific Way is closed except to residents. Check back for updates or call (415)561-3054 More »

  • CAUTION: Post Storm Damage to Coastal Trail

    The Presidio Coastal Trail segment just north of the Pacific Overlook and adjacent to Lincoln Blvd remains CLOSED indefinitely. We have posted signage to alert bicyclists and hikers and with information for safe trail alternatives. More »

Into the Redwood Forest

Student examines insect

New teachers accepted to Into the Redwood Forest must attend the Teacher Workshop on January 5, 2013.

Your class discovers the magic of Muir Woods National Monument, which preserves one of the last remaining old-growth redwood forests in the Bay Area. The program weaves science, art, and journaling to introduce students to Muir Woods' history and habitats. Students collect and organize data, link plant and animal communities within the forest, and represent these interdependent communities through artistic explorations, such as drawings and three-dimensional models.

 
Students study the redwoods

Program Description

Into the Redwood Forest utilizes a cooperative learning model. Lessons are organized so students can build on the knowledge they have already gained. The program helps students achieve science standards.

  • Pre-visit activities begin with a biography of John Muir and his use of journals. Students construct a personal journal that is used throughout the program. All activities are designed to build on one another so the student may record and follow their individual progression in understanding the components of the ecosystem.

  • A classroom visit from National Park Service staff helps students develop an understanding of Muir Woods ecology and the National Park Service mission. Park staff facilitates fun learning activities to prepare students for their visit.

  • A science field experience in Muir Woods brings students to study, experiment, record, and draw the interdependent communities of a redwood forest.

  • Post-visit activities engage students in the exchange of information accumulated in their personal journals. They are encouraged to design a park brochure, write a story, poem, or letter about their experience.

Please click here for a PDF of the Teacher's Guide and program description.

 

Did You Know?

The building now known as the Crissy Field Center originally opened for business in 1939 as a commissary?

The building now known as the Crissy Field Center originally opened for business in 1939 as a commissary?