New Merrie Way debuts at GGNRA

The new Merrie Way overlook near the historic Cliff House was unveiled at Lands End Oct. 18.

The day featured a Ferris wheel, a miniature train, ranger-led nature and history walks, and plenty of carnival food. The area is one of the most treasured places in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA), which runs from Marin County south of San Francisco. The area features wild and rocky cliffs, wind-sculpted cypress trees and dramatic ocean vistas.

"The restoration and enhancement of this rugged edge of San Francisco with its rich history and prime bird habitat ensures that this beautiful park will be enjoyed by generations to come," said Greg Moore, executive director of the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy.

"And the work here has only just begun. The Parks Conservancy in partnership with the National Park Service and support from our generous donors, members, and volunteers will continue to work on this gorgeous parcel of land with more upgrades to the Coastal Trail and the USS San Francisco Memorial area," he said.

The renovation project has been going on for the past two years. It is the first phase of a two-phase plan to overhaul the area.

The intent of the GGNRA is to open a window to Lands End at the turn of the 20th century, when it was a recreation destination built by former San Francisco Mayor Adolph Sutro.

According to Moore, the public can now enjoy:

- A stunning new ocean overlook above the Sutro Baths, running along the western edge of a parking area with enforced safety and environmental features and offering views of the Sutro Baths, Pacific Ocean and the Cliff House;

- ADA accessibility for both the new overlook and trailhead above the Sutro Baths;

- New signs have been added at all the overlooks and along the trails with maps and information about the natural wonders and fascinating history of the area;

- Benches and bicycle parking around the overlook;

- New interpretive kiosks and signage at an adjoining Coastal Trail trailhead will provide announcements of programs, walks and events at Lands End;

- Native plants have been planted throughout the area and at the trailhead, which will be continued along the Coastal Trail corridor;

- A new parking lot with 135 car spaces and five bus spots.

"The new trailhead amphitheater space creates a visible and welcoming entrance to the Coastal Trail that provides a gathering space for groups for talks and presentations," said John Skibbe, principal architect on the Lands End restoration project. "Bringing the community together in this stunning location has always been one of our goals."

In phase two of the project, the Golden Gate National Recreation Area will focus on planting 20,000 trees to enhance the area and bring back native habitat. It will also introduce monthly walks, working with the Parks Conservancy, to bring more San Franciscans to the area and it will conduct surveys, work with volunteers to maintain the area and focus on the GGNRA's Trail Keepers program.

The Lands End restoration project was facilitated with the generous support of the Richard and Rhoda Goldman Foundation, Horace W. Goldsmith Foundation, California State Coastal Conservancy, and Parks Conservancy members, volunteers and donors.

For more information, visit the Web site at www.parksconservancy.org.