Comments on: Alcatraz — the surprising rock.

By: Doug McConnell

Doug McConnell — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 19:58:19 +0000

I love the pictures, too, Jason. Many thanks. And Audry and Jon, thanks for the suggestions and advice. I agree with them all. I’ve spent many days and nights on the Rock shooting television stories and specials…..and the place has many moods. One of my favorite aspects is its absolutely unique natural environment. Its an important bird colony and its hugely varied plant life is virtually all exotic…growing on soil carted in from Angel Island and elsewhere. No place quite like it in the world.

By: Jim Wirth

Jim Wirth — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 18:00:06 +0000

Love that photo of Alcatraz Jason! Please keep sharing your great photos with us!!

By: Jon Davies

Jon Davies — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 17:51:11 +0000

Last time I visited Alcatraz with friends from out of town, we took the night tour. If you go, talk to the rangers at the beginning, and ask if they’ll be leading any small groups after the main tour – they don’t always do it, but they love to, I think. It gives them a chance to demonstrate what they know and love about the place. We got to see some of the prison complex that is normally off-limits. We were able to climb around and explore the gun galleries where the guards patrolled above the tiers, a movie theater, and other places not accessible during the day. It can be spooky (not for little kids), but it’s thrilling. It’s a plus if the moon is full, and it can be FREEZING, so bring warm clothes. Enjoy!

By: Audrey Rust

Audrey Rust — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 15:58:32 +0000

Dear Doug,
I love that you are doing a blog and will be a regular reader.
This photo of Alcatraz sunset reminds me of the fabulour view you can get by going out to the “wave organ” on the breakwater just beyond the Yacht Club in the Marina. That funky place is one of my favorite places to take a coffee and watch how San Francisco and the Bay is transformed as the sun sets. You might want to visit soon?