Things To Do

Whatever you are looking for in a national park, chances are Golden Gate has it. There are so many trails, historic structures, natural areas, and public programs in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area that the hardest thing to do is decide which one to try. Whether you are making a full day trip, or just have two hours or less to spend in the park, here are some great activities to try!

Getting your cancellations is easy! Click here to browse the Virtual Passport Stamp page and virtually visit Golden Gate NPS.

Trip Ideas

For more information about operating hours at the specific sites please refer to the Operating Hours and Seasons page.

Two Hours or Less

Spot whales at Muir Beach Overlook during their winter migration (December-February)
Take the Cold War-era Nike Missle Site in the Marin Headlands
Scan the sky for migratory birds of prey (raptors) soaring above Marin Headlands on Hawk Hill (in Fall)
Touch the historic 16-inch gun at Battery Townsley in Marin Headlands
Watch the sun set over the ocean at Lands End Lookout
Take a cell phone tour of Fort Baker, an Endicott-period army post from the early 1900's.
Play with interactive exhibits at the Golden Gate Bridge plaza
Walk around restored wetlands at Crissy Field
Learn about two centuries of Presidio military life on a ranger-guided tour
Discover what makes Fort Point noteworthy and collect an NPS Civil War trading card
Explore the ruins of Sutro Baths and nearby Sutro Heights Gardens
Enjoy the spectacular views of the Golden Gate at one of the many overlooks
Walk the Esplanade at Ocean Beach
Take a history walking tour of Fort Mason
Take a wildflower walk at Fort Funston (in spring)
Look for red-legged frogs in ponds at Mori Point

Half Day or More

Hike from the ocean to the top of Montara Mountain (2,000 feet) at Rancho Corral de Tierra
Find the Bay Discovery Site on Sweeney Ridge where Spanish explorer Gaspar de Portolà first saw San Francisco Bay in 1769
Join in the Junior Ranger Program at Alcatraz. Reserve your boat tickets in advance!
Bicycle along the waterfront from San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, across the Golden Gate Bridge to Battery Spencer--and panoramic views of the city
Catch fish at Fort Point, Baker Beach, or Ocean Beach
Enjoy a beach fire in one of the provided fire rings at Muir Beach or Ocean Beach
Camp at Kirby Cove, with a panoramic view of the Golden Gate
Take a rocky trail out to Point Bonita Lighthouse (limited hours)
Spot wrens, owls and other wild creatures among the coast redwoods at Muir Woods National Monument
Hike, bike, or ride a horse to the ocean on the Tennessee Valley Trail
Spend the day at Stinson Beach, the parks's only life-guarded beach

Plan Ahead

Archives

Discover the history of the park on your own by exploring the many collections preserved here.
Art

Engage with the park through various art experiences and installations.
App

Download the park app before your trip for tours, info, and more on your phone.
Beaches
Camping

Camp underneath the stars at one of our four sites in Marin Headlands.
Eating & Sleeping

Staying a while? Check out one of the park's partners or concessioners in the area.
Fishing

Fish responsibly, get permit information and find the best places for fishing in the park.
Hiking

Taking to the trails is a fantastic way to discover all that the GGNRA have to offer
Maps

What park maps are available?
Nearby Attractions

Partners and organizations near Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Ranger Programs

Get to know Golden Gate through Ranger-Led and Docent-Led Programs.
Recreational Fires

Recreational fires are permitted and regulated only at certain sites
Self Guided Brochures

Have more time to explore the park? Download a self-guided walking tour.