Marshall's Beach Intertidal Exploration

Descend the Battery to Bluffs Trail to Marshall's Beach during low tide to explore coastal bluff geology and the fascinating intertidal life. This will also be a good time to spot some early-season wildflowers along the trail.

Walk Leaders: Emil Fogarino and Tom Scharffenberger

Emil is a former science teacher at George Washington High School and lifetime educator. His focus and interest on marine biology and population studies helps him to understand the Bay Area on an intimate level, which is pivotal in his role with Nature in the City. He's been leading fun & engaging NTC nature walks. He also spends his time volunteering at the Tunnel Tops Field Station and the Presidio Native Plant Nursery. 

Tom is a landscape architect and conservation planner. He loves discovering new parts of San Francisco, and co-leading walks with Emil and other Nature in the City colleagues. He also enjoys birding, mushroom hunting and wildflower viewing through all parts of California and western US, and recently became a California certified naturalist.

Details: The Battery to Bluffs Trail features the coastal strand ecosystem, magnificent serpentinite geology, and leads to Marshall's Beach for intertidal viewing and beachcombing.

The 2-mile route has a 300-400 foot elevation change. Expect steep stairs down (280 steps)and a strenuous climb back up, though we'll keep an easy pace.

Preparation: Wear sturdy shoes (with good grip) and layers, and a walking stick is recommended! Bring water and a snack since this is a 3-hour walk. If you have binoculars they could come in handy for bird and whale watching.

Meeting Location: Meet at the Golden Gate Overlook near the Langdon Street Parking Lot. There are restrooms at the Fort Scott Ballfield across Lincoln that can be used before or after the walk. Note that these are high car break-in areas - do not leave anything valuable in your car!

Transportation: The Muni 28 and Golden Gate Transit serve the Welcome Center nearby. The PresidioGo shuttle has a stop along Lincoln Blvd, about a 10 min walk to the starting location.

Parking is available at the Langdon St parking lot, which also has bike racks. 

Weather: Heavy rain will cancel. We will send out an announcement the morning of the walk if we decide to cancel.

Cost: This walk is FREE to attend (with RSVPs kindly requested).

Donations (in cash) can be made to Nature in the City on the day of the event. Special bonus! Everyone who donates $10 and above will receive a copy of the Nature in the City Map.

Or donate to Nature in the City using our secure online form, and we’ll send you monthly emails with a full events listing, local nature information, and access to more fun perks.

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