| 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 cannot only explore the remnants
of the prison, but can also learn about the Indian occupation of 1969
- 1971, early military fortifications (the first U.S. fort on the coast),
and the West Coast's first (and oldest operating) lighthouse. These structures
and the island's many natural features - gardens, tide pools, bird colonies,
and bay views beyond compare - are being preserved by the National Park
Service which is working to make it accessible to visitors, preserve its
buildings, protect its birds and other wildlife, and interpret its history.
The distance from the dock to the cell house at the
top of the island is about 1/4 mile, the elevation change is 130 feet
(equivalent to a thirteen story climb). Visitors unable to make the climb
up Alcatraz's steep road may take advantage of SEAT - Sustainable Easy
Access Transport, an electric shuttle which runs once an hour from the
dock to the cell house, and once an hour from the cell house to the dock.
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