Marin Headlands - Info & Ranger Guided Programs

 

The Marin Headlands has an amazing richness of history and biological diversity.

The Marin Headlands is known for its unique geology, its fog-swept coastal prairie ecosystem, and its many chapters of history. Dramatic cliffs of oceanic rock offer sweeping views of the Golden Gate Bridge, and the foghorn frequently resounds over the misty lagoon and rolling hills of coyote brush and sage. The Headlands’ human history is long and layered. Today, we welcome international and local visitors, jr. rangers, hikers, surfers, students, birders, geologists, historians, and researchers. We hope you find a way in which your own lives and passions intersect with the themes underlying the story of this park.

Tips & Highlights for your Marin Headlands Visit:

• Check alerts and conditions before you go.

• Click here to download or print a map of the Marin Headlands.

• Click here to explore some hiking options.

• Many of our trails welcome dogs! Click here for dog Information.

• We seek to make our park accessible and usable to all individuals. Learn more on our accessibility page.

• See our calendar for upcoming events.

• You may lose cellular service in parts of the Headlands. Plan ahead.

• Bring your own snack and water; there are limited food vendors in the Marin Headlands.

• Picnic area at Battery Wallace, near the Point Bonita Trailhead is complete with tables and grills (no water on site).

• Marin Headlands trails can be accessed off of Highway 101 from Rodeo Avenue Exit and Trailhead, and Spencer Avenue Exit at Morning Sun Trailhead. Access is prohibited from Wolfback Ridge Road, which is private.

 

Stories & Photos

Historical Stories in Marin Headlands

Learn more about the history of the Marin Headlands by exploring these webpages and articles.

Nature Stories in the Marin Headlands

Learn more about the natural resources of the park and the research we are conducting to learn more!

Now & Then: Marin Headlands

Learn more about the history and habitats of the area through photos from the past and today.

 

Places to Go in the Marin Headlands

Camping

The Marin Headlands features four hike-in campgrounds.

Point Bonita Lighthouse

Discover the jewel of the San Francisco Bay: the Point Bonita Lighthouse.

Nike Missile Site

Contemplate the Cold War's influence on society at the Nike Missile Site.

Battery Townsley

Explore the historic tunnel that sheltered the Coast Artillery Corps during WWII.

Scenic Vistas

Hawk Hill, Battery Spencer, Hill 88, Kirby Cove, and Slacker Ridge all offer spectacular views!

Fort Cronkhite

Places within Fort Cronkhite include Rodeo Beach, Battery Townsley, and The Marine Mammal Center.

Tennessee Valley

In the spring, take a stroll through Tennessee Valley and watch as the valley comes alive with colorful wildflowers.

Rodeo Beach and Lagoon

Rodeo Beach and Lagoon are part of Fort Cronkhite.

Fort Baker

Take a cell-phone tour of Fort Baker, an Endicott-period army post from the early 1900's.

Fort Barry

Places within Fort Barry include the Nike Missile Site, Bicentennial Campground, and the Point Bonita Lighthouse.

Gerbode Valley

Enjoy the great outdoors with a hike through the coastal chapparal around Gerbode Valley.