Point Reyes National Seashore

the weather is fine, allow time to explore Point Reyes National Seashore, a spectacular wilderness area stretching along the sea (www.nps.gov/pore). If you happen to be in the area on a weekend, in addition to taking advantage of the free ranger programs, call ahead (415-663-1200) to inquire about special field trips (such as tidepool studies, bird watching, and sights and sounds of nature) that are offered for a fee. The ranger station, located in a handsome redwood building at the entrance to the park, has maps, leaflets, books, a museum, and a movie theater where a presentation gives interesting information on the park. Be sure to stop here before your explorations to obtain a map and study what you want to see and do. A short stroll away from the ranger station is the “earthquake trail” where markers indicate changes brought about by the 1906 earthquake. Also within walking distance is the Morgan Ranch where Morgan horses are raised and trained for the park system. If the weather is clear, a drive out to Point Reyes Lighthouse is a highlight that should not be missed. As you drive for 45 minutes across windswept fields and through dairy farms to the lighthouse you realize how large the park really is. When you arrive, it is a ten-minute walk from the parking area to the viewing area. From there, steps lead down to the lighthouse. Be prepared: it is like walking down a 30-story building and once down, you have to come back up! In late fall and spring it is a perfect place from which to watch for migrating gray whales.