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Alcatraz Island
Out in the middle of the San Francisco Bay, the island of Alcatraz is a world unto itself. Isolation, one of the constants of island life for any inhabitant - soldier, guard, prisoner, bird or plant - is a recurrent theme in the unfolding history of Alcatraz. Alcatraz Island is one of Golden Gate National Recreation Area's most popular destinations, offering a close-up look at a historic and infamous federal prison long off-limits to the public. Visitors to the island can not only explore the remnants of the prison, but learn about the Native American occupation of 1969 - 1971, early military fortifications and the West Coast's first (and oldest operating) lighthouse. The island features many natural features as well - gardens, tide pools, bird colonies, and bay views beyond compare
Contact Information
Golden Gate National Recreation Area Fort Mason, Building 201 - Alcatraz San Francisco, CA 94123 (415) 561-4900 - Visitor Information (415) 705-5555 - Reservations Sponsored LinksGetting There
By Plane
Blue and Gold Fleet is the only concession that supplies transportation to Alcatraz Island. Advance ticket purchase is strongly recommended.
Weather
The weather on Alcatraz can change suddenly, even summer days can be cold and windy. The majority of our rain is in the winter months. Dressing in layers is recommended.
Activities
Here are some of the activities that are offered at Mount Rainier National Park.
If you want more information about backpacking and hiking, give thebackpacker.com a try. From backpacking gear reviews, hiking trail reviews and much more, it covers all aspects of wilderness travel.
Recommended Activities INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMS Outdoor interpretive walks are offered throughout the day by NPS rangers and volunteers. Program titles and locations are posted on the dock and in the cellhouse. SELF-GUIDED TOUR Enjoy the history of Alcatraz at your own pace with this map and written guide. Pick up the Self Guide brochure in English, Spanish, Italian, Spanish, German or Japanese at the dock for $1.00 per copy. ORIENTATION VIDEO Attend a 14-minute video presentation of the Island's 200 year history - an excellent introduction to Alcatraz. EXHIBITS Several exhibits are located behind the theater, they present the various periods of Alcatraz's history, including the U.S. penitentiary (1934-1963). A new award winning video (captioned) exhibit, "We Hold the Rock", presents the story of the occupation by Indians of All Tribes (1969-1971). CELLHOUSE RECORDED TOUR Join former Alcatraz inmates and correctional officers as they remember life on Alcatraz in this award winning 35-minute recorded tour. Pick up (rent) the tour inside the cellhouse. Available in English, Spanish, Italian, German, Japanese, and French.
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The National Park
System includes all
US States and even
extends to some US
Territories. To explore the
parks, you may either browse
the parks by State or by Name.
Choose Park by Name: Find Hiking and Biking Trails
If you like to go hiking or biking, then don't forget to get a map and guidebook. Trails.com offers a great service that allows unlimited downloads of trail guides for a small monthly fee. They even have a 14 day free trial. Whether you are looking for day hikes, backpacking trails, mountain bike routes or just short nature stroll, they cover it all.
So let Trails.com help plan your next outing.
RV Information
Are you planning on traveling with your RV? If you are, you should check out the Good Sam Club. The Good Sam Club offers discounts on camping, a free magazine subscription
and
great tips on traveling with your RV. You can also get
a free
no-obligation RV Insurance quote . Give
them a look and enjoy your trip.
Gear Up For Your Trip
Once you have finished deciding where to go, it will be time to gear up. A great place for adventure travel gear is The National Geographic Store. They have all types of maps and guides to help finalize your vacation plans.
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