Presidio Ecology Trail and Lovers Lane CA

• 4-star hike
• 2 mile loop
• Easy | Gain 200 feet
• San Francisco, CA | San Francisco Region
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The image shows the silhouette of trees in the foreground with the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in the background. The bridge is partially obscured by the trees, and the scene is set during sunset, casting a warm, orange glow across the sky. This creates a visually striking and serene composition, blending the beauty of nature with the iconic structure of the Golden Gate Bridge.

The image shows the silhouette of trees in the foreground with the iconic Golden Gate Bridge in the background. The bridge is partially obscured by the trees, and the scene is set during sunset, casting a warm, orange glow across the sky. This creates a visually striking and serene composition, blending the beauty of nature with the iconic structure of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Golden Gate Bridge dusk through the Presidio tree line.

You’ll likely find more locals than visitors on this trail that loops around the Southeast part of the expansive San Francisco Presidio, and you could fill a complete day exploring attractions just off this route.

Pre-dating San Francisco, the Presidio was established as a military location since 1776 and remained an active base until 1994 when it was transferred to the National Park Service. The park is now home to residents who occupy the former military housing, recreational playing fields, golf courses and a commercial center that among others houses Lucasfilm offices – where you can search out the Yoda fountain!

The Presidio provides much for nature lovers also, not the least of which is the first part of our hike – the Ecology Trail, which passes through grasslands, redwood groves, and the Tennessee Hollow watershed before reaching the parade grounds of the Presidio.

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⬤ 4★ Presidio Ecology Trail 2.0 mi loop, easy, gain 200 ft
AllTrails · GPX File · Directions GPX?

The Ecology Trail leads you to many off-trail areas worth exploring, including the Walt Disney Museum, the Palace of Fine Arts, the birder’s favorite Crissy Field Marsh, Crissy Field Beaches with classic views of the Golden Gate, and the Tunnel Tops Park constructed over the now undergrounded Presidio Parkway.

Don’t forget to stop off at Inspiration Point to admire the views over the San Francisco Bay. This is also an alternative trailhead, but only if you’re lucky enough to find a parking space at this popular spot.

Complete our loop with an almost arrow-straight stroll down Lovers’ Lane – the Presidio’s oldest footpath, which was established by 18th century soldiers and missionaries to travel between the Presidio and Mission Dolores (the other major pre-San Francisco outpost). Running parallel to the East of this footpath you’ll find Wood Line – a curious zig-zagging art installation to please the eye and to balance upon.

The image shows a scenic view of a wooden boardwalk surrounded by lush greenery and purple-flowered bushes. The boardwalk curves gently to the right and leads towards a building with a red roof in the distance. The background features a hilly landscape with trees and a clear blue sky.

The image shows a scenic view of a wooden boardwalk surrounded by lush greenery and purple-flowered bushes. The boardwalk curves gently to the right and leads towards a building with a red roof in the distance. The background features a hilly landscape with trees and a clear blue sky.

Crissy Field Marsh boardwalk.

The image shows a scenic view of the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco, with Alcatraz Island and its historic prison in the background. The foreground features lush greenery and trees, while the middle ground includes the dome of the Palace of Fine Arts. The background showcases the waters of San Francisco Bay, dotted with sailboats and other vessels, and Alcatraz Island with its prominent prison buildings. The image is interesting and relevant as it captures two iconic landmarks of San Francisco, highlighting the city's rich history and architectural beauty.

Stopping by Inspiration Point for a photo opportunity.

Tangents:
• Official: Ecology Trail
• AllTrails Public: Ecology Trail
• Facebook Group: Comment, Follow Us

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