Explore the Presidio's Hidden Treasures
Chillin, Photography, Running, Hiking
Beginner
Year Round
This is a fun 2-mile hike with easy access to the rest of the Presidio.Stroll 150 year old Lover's Lane.Walk along Andy Goldsworthy's "Wood Line".Take in the beautiful views from Inspiration Point.Duration: 1-2 hours.
Tucked into a corner of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area is the Presidio, a beautiful little oasis of forests, beaches, and sweeping views that locals love. While the coastal trails get most of the attention here, the park covers 300 acres of prime real estate with lots of notable attractions.
This 2-mile hike is a simple loop that takes you past three significant landmarks, and allows for easy exploration of other areas. Begin at the Presidio Gate (Presidio Blvd & Pacific) and start your way down Lover’s Lane. To your immediate right, up in the trees, you’ll see Andy Goldsworthy’s “Wood Line” art installation, a zig-zagging configuration of eucalyptus trees. Look closely for it from Lover’s Lane or there’s a good chance you’ll miss it.
Continue down along Lover’s Lane until it ends at Presidio Blvd. Make a left at Presidio and walk down a few hundred yards and you’ll see a trailhead for the Upper Ecology Trail. Take this trail uphill, through a beautiful forest, until you reach Inspiration Point Overlook. With a posted trail map, this is the perfect spot to break off and do a bit more exploring.
Once you’re done taking in the views at Inspiration Point, follow the signs for the Mountain Lake Trail, which will return you to your starting point at the Presidio Gate.
When you're done exploring, treat yourself to some comfort food and drinks at Liverpool Lil's.
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations.