In California, the Point Reyes National Seashore winter shuttle bus transportation system will begin on December 31 to help visitors get to key overlooks for viewing migrating whales and breeding elephant seals.

The shuttle bus system, which will run into March, provides access to the prime viewing areas of the Point Reyes headlands, including the historic Point Reyes Lighthouse and Chimney Rock. This is the 19th year of the shuttle transportation system. This operation is an important tool to protect the fragile headlands while allowing safe access for visitors. Limited parking is available at prime viewing areas, so this bus service eases congestion in these areas.

"The new year is a great way to celebrate the annual return of the Pacific gray whale as they migrate from Alaska to Mexico, but also to watch Northern elephant seals as they haul out onto beaches at Point Reyes," said acting Superintendent David Brouillette.

Winter wildlife docents will be at the Chimney Rock and Lighthouse overlooks to assist visitors.

Bus service runs only in good weather on weekends and holidays, including on December 31 and January 1. Ticket sales open at 9:30 a.m. at the Kenneth C. Patrick Visitor Center at Drakes Beach and close at 3 p.m. Children 15 and under are free, adult tickets are $7 per person, and Federal Interagency Senior and Access pass discounts apply to the purchase.

Sir Francis Drake Boulevard is closed beyond the South Beach junction when the buses are operating. Road closures begin at approximately 9:30 a.m., and the road reopens at approximately 5:15 p.m.. For more information, please call the park's "Shuttles, Whales, and Elephant Seals" information line at 415-464-5100 x2 x3 x1.