Smoky air closes Alcatraz, other visitor attractions

Alcatraz and other major visitor attractions in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area are closed this weekend due to unhealthy air, the National Park Service said today.

"We hesitate to suspend any visitor operations but feel that this is the best way to provide for the safety and well-being of our staff and visitors during this difficult week," said Charlie Strickfaden, spokesman for the Golden Gate recreation area.

Visitor facilities closed through Sunday in San Francisco are Crissy Field Warming Hut, Alcatraz Island, Fort Point National Historic Site, Lands End Lookout and the Golden Gate Bridge welcome center and cafT. No access will be available to Alcatraz Island.

The Presidio Visitor Center will remain open through the weekend, officials said.

In Marin County, the sites closed are Muir Woods National Monument Visitor Center and concessions; Marin Headlands Visitor Center; and Point Bonita Lighthouse.

Volunteer programs, outdoor walks and education programs are also suspended. Park officials will reevaluate park operations as conditions change.