Nature & Science

The nature trails of Mt. Wanda provide excellent opportunities for experiencing the unique plants, wildlife, and natural features of John Muir National Historic Site.

NPS

For John Muir, Mt. Wanda and the surrounding hills were common hiking spots and a place where he passed his love of nature to his daughters.

“Another lovely day, mostly solid sunshine. Took a fine fragrant walk up the West Hills with Wanda and Helen, who I am glad to see love walking, flowers, trees, and every bird and beast and creeping thing.” —John Muir, April 12th, 1895, Alhambra Valley, Contra Costa County, California. As cited in John of the Mountains: the Unpublished Journals of John Muir by Linnie Marsh Wolf

The natural landscapes that Muir and his daughters explored in Martinez can be experienced by all at the John Muir National Historic Site. The park works to protect these landscapes and provide present and future generations with the opportunity to enjoy them.

Mt. Wanda stands at about 650 feet and consists of over 325 acres of natural open space and hiking trails. It features the iconic and diverse natural habitats commonly found in the east San Francisco Bay Area.

 

Help protect your National Park lands!

• While hiking on Mt. Wanda, you can practice leave no trace principles by taking only pictures and leaving only footprints.
• You can contribute to nature observations and get help with identification through iNaturalist,a community science project where people can record what they observe in nature and interact with nature experts using a free mobile app. The project name for this park is "Wild Life in John Muir National Historic Site".
• To help the park with conservation projects, explore our volunteer opportunities.