Last updated: January 27, 2021
Thing to Do
Explore the Agave Trail
NPS
Birds, tidepools and stunning views of the San Francisco can all be found along a short walk on the Agave Trail. This trail offers a chance to step away from the crowds and take a walk on the wild side. Keep your eyes peeled for the islands abundant bird life.
This trail heads South from the islands dock and leads you around the southern end of the island, before climbing onto the historic Parade Ground. The agave or century plants found along this trail were planted by the U.S. Army. The rubble piles you see here were once Apartments that housed Correctional Officers and their families. These buildings were torn down by the General Services Administration following the Indiand Occupation. Today, the Parade Ground is home to the largest colony of nesting Western Gulls in the San Francisco Bay Area. Black Crowned Night Herons, Snowy Egrets and Great Blue Herons all can be found roosting amidst the rubble piles.
This trail is only open outside of these birds nesting season. It typically opens in late October and closes with the return of the birds in mid January.
This trail heads South from the islands dock and leads you around the southern end of the island, before climbing onto the historic Parade Ground. The agave or century plants found along this trail were planted by the U.S. Army. The rubble piles you see here were once Apartments that housed Correctional Officers and their families. These buildings were torn down by the General Services Administration following the Indiand Occupation. Today, the Parade Ground is home to the largest colony of nesting Western Gulls in the San Francisco Bay Area. Black Crowned Night Herons, Snowy Egrets and Great Blue Herons all can be found roosting amidst the rubble piles.
This trail is only open outside of these birds nesting season. It typically opens in late October and closes with the return of the birds in mid January.
Details
Duration
30-60 Minutes
Most folks can walk the Agave Trail in a half hour, but plan longer time if you'd like to stop and enjoy the views. A variety of benches along the trail provide opportunities to rest and take in the scenery.
Activity
Front-Country Hiking
Pets Allowed
No
Pets are not permitted on Alcatraz Island.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Reservations
No
Season
Winter, Fall
This trail is open outside of Alcatraz Island's waterbird's nesting season. It typically opens in late October and closes with the return of the birds in mid January.
Time of Day
Day
Accessibility Information
From the dock this trail begins as a flat gravel trail, ranging 6'-10' in width. At that point a stone paved staircase of ~40 steps climbs up to the parade ground. Several benches are available along the trail to rest.