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Bench and storytelling panel at the Wayburn Redwood Grove in the Presidio of San Francisco.

Wayburn Redwood Grove

Wayburn Redwood Grove is a peaceful place that celebrates park conservation heroes.

Region

Main Post Region

Type

Habitat

Interests

Nature & Sustainability, Recreation

Top Amenities

Paid Parking, Muni Bus-accessible, Shuttle-accessible

In the bustle of the Main Post, pause to enjoy a peaceful stand of coastal redwoods planted to honor two great American park champions.

The Wayburn Redwood Grove was created in 2006 to honor Dr. Edgar and Peggy Wayburn, who advocated for the preservation of America’s wild open spaces. In 1972 their vision helped establish the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, of which the Presidio is a part. 

Though they have passed on, you can learn about their accomplishments in this tranquil grove overlooking Thompson Reach, a riparian creek restoration site. Here you’ll find benches where you can rest, contemplate the beauty around you, and remember that everyone can make a difference.

Getting to Wayburn Redwood Grove

Girard Rd, San Francisco, CA 94129

Google Map of the Presidio

By Public Transit

Muni Route: 43  

Stop: Lincoln Boulevard/Girard Road

By Presidio GO Shuttle

Route: Downtown 

Stop: Presidio YMCA

Parking

Paid parking can be found across Lincoln Boulevard near the Presidio Community YMCA.

Why We Love Wayburn Redwood Grove

This place reminds us that parks are made by the people, for the people. It brings to life the story of environmental heroes who can inspire the next generation of park champions. 

Accessibility at Wayburn Redwood Grove

Parking can be found across the street at the Presidio Community YMCA.

Insider Tip

From the Wayburn Redwood Grove, take a short walk on the Tennessee Hollow Trail to see the Presidio’s newest restoration site, the wetlands at Quartermaster Reach Marsh, right across from Crissy Field East Beach.

Bench at the Wayburn Redwood Grove.

CELEBRATING PARK CHAMPIONS

Until his death in 2010 at the age of 103, Dr. Edgar Wayburn advocated for the preservation of America’s wild open spaces along with his wife, Peggy, who died in 2002. 

Pause Along Presidio Trails 

The Wayburn Redwood Grove is located where the Presidio Promenade Trail intersects with the Tennessee Hollow Trail​. It’s across from the Presidio Community YMCA and a very short walk from the Presidio Visitor Center, Presidio Tunnel Tops, and Presidio Transit Center​, where restrooms and food options are available. 

Dedicating the Grove 

In 2006, to commemorate Ed Wayburn’s 100th birthday, a redwood grove in the Presidio was dedicated to him and his late wife, Peggy. Dr. Wayburn attended with his family. 

Dr. Edgar Wayburn and his daughter Laurie Wayburn at the grove’s dedication in 2006.

 A Lifetime of Accomplishment 

President Bill Clinton honored Dr. Edgar Wayburn with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, our nation’s highest civilian honor, in 1999, proclaiming that Wayburn “saved more of our wilderness than any other person alive.” 

Dr. Edgar Wayburn and his daughter Laurie Wayburn at the grove’s dedication in 2006.

Never give up. Even if you don't win in your lifetime, you can blaze a trail for others to follow.”

Dr. Edgar Wayburn

Park Itineraries 

Need help planning your day at the Presidio? We’ve put together some itinerary ideas for things to see and do in the park. Whether you’re planning to spend a few hours or an entire day, there’s something for everyone at the Presidio.