The Presidio is a classic hike in San Francisco, easily accessible by public transit. It is also a well-preserved natural area and cultural outpost, with military installations from the twentieth century throughout the park. The grounds here are good for birdwatching, and have amazing ocean views as well as access to the Golden Gate Bridge.
Quick Notes
Distance: 3.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 315 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Type: Bidirectional
Transit Accessibility
Take Muni Line 30 to Mason Street and Yacht Road.
Or, take Muni Line 38 Geary or Line 1 California to the opposite end of the park and walk to Baker Beach.
Carpooling
There is parking at Mason Street and Yacht Road.
The Hike
This hike has great history. Starting at Mason Street, begin with the view of Alcatraz above. Turn west to see the WWII airfields, called Crissy Field.
Spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge follow. Keep walking up to the hill, and under the bridge. Now you will see the Marin Headlands on your right, and the Presidio on your left.
Also, notice the birds. It is always amazing to me when the inland wind traps a bird in a hovering pose. Or when a hawk makes good use of that by scanning the ground for prey. Here is a picture of such a hawk.
Good photo opportunities abound here.
This is a good hike–if you have a day off and can’t get out of town, it will serve as your dose of the outdoors. The coastal trail goes all the way to Baker Beach, and it is a short walk from there to Lands’ End and the Sutro Baths. If you are so inclined, you can spend the afternoon at the beach–you will still have good bus options back into town.
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