Basic Information

Welcome to the Golden Gate National Recreation Area!

Golden Gate National Recreation Area is one of more than 420 national park units across the country. Plan on spending at least a few hours in the park, exploring the scenic drives or particular points of interests. If time permits, take a hike, participate in a Junior Ranger program, recreate in Golden Gate, or consider attending a ranger-led program to learn more about these special places. Guided walks and tours occur at various locations.

Here are the basics:

Access to the park is free, with the exceptions of Muir Woods National Monument and Alcatraz Island.*
Most parking lots are open between sunrise to sunset.
Most trails are shared by hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians, and runners. Please practice good trail etiquette with your fellow visitors.
Cell phone service can be unreliable in the mountains and valleys of the Marin Headlands and Muir Woods.
Check out our park visitor centers for more information about the parks.
Visit our Frequently Asked Questions webpage for more details.
For a detailed list of laws and policies governing the parks see the Superintendent's Compendium.