Mount Tamalpais Observatory

The Mount Tamalpais Astronomy Program (MTAP) is a free public astronomy education program held at the historic Cushing Memorial Amphitheater (Mountain Theater) within Mount Tamalpais State Park. Evening programs run one Saturday per month from April through October, featuring talks by professional astronomers followed by star-gazing sessions in the Rock Spring parking lot. The Mountain Theater has a dedicated wheelchair platform on the right side of the theater, with accessible parking and an accessible vault restroom available nearby. A golf cart shuttle is available to transport patrons with physical limitations along the flat trail to the wheelchair platform — no reservation required. Accessible parking for wheelchair users is available in the Madrone Grove lot inside the theater (advance reservation required by calling 415-383-1100), and ADA-accessible spaces are available in the Rock Spring lot.

The Mountain Play Association, which also performs at the same amphitheater, offers signed performances at least once per season and audio descriptive services during the first three play performances each season — features tied to this venue. The park’s accessible Verna Dunshee Trail at East Peak is 0.75 miles long with accessible parking, restrooms, and picnic tables at the trailhead. Accessible restrooms meeting full ADA specifications are available at East Peak, with roll-under sinks and proper grab bars. Service animals are welcome throughout the park. Visitors with disabilities may contact the Pantoll Visitor Services Kiosk at 415-388-2070 before their visit.

Visitors report that reaching the Mountain Theater from the parking area involves traveling over a natural dirt path, which may present challenges for some wheelchair users. Some visitors note that driving to the upper mountain is the most practical option for those with limited mobility, as the terrain is otherwise rugged and steep across most of the park.