Hikes Show Off Newest Presidio Trails
Presidio of San Francisco (June 19, 2009) — A dozen major trails wind their way through and across the Presidio, each revealing a different aspect of the park’s character. With this network of trails growing rapidly and undergoing extensive upgrades, the Presidio Trust is offering a series of guided hikes along some of the park’s newest trails Saturday, June 20 and Wednesday, June 24 as part of the Presidio’s “Experience of the Month.”
The hikes will take visitors from the “heart of the Presidio,” the historic Main Post, to the wild coastal bluffs and back, more than three miles along some of the newest segments of Presidio trails; from the Lombard Gate to the Golden Gate Bridge along the Presidio Promenade; and across an incredible diversity of landscapes throughout the southwestern part of the park including Lobos Creek Valley and boardwalk, Mountain Lake and the sculpture “Spire,” artist Andy Goldsworthy’s homage to the Presidio forest.
“People may not be aware that they can now hike from the Main Post to the ocean on uninterrupted trail,” says Michael Boland, Chief of Planning and Park Projects for the Presidio Trust. “We’re excited to showcase the latest upgrades so visitors can enjoy new experiences on the Presidio’s stunning trails.”
Improvements to the Presidio’s network of trails, bikeways and overlooks are made possible by a lead gift and challenge grant from the Evelyn and Walter Haas Jr., fund and are being undertaken in partnership with the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy and the National Parks Service.
The Main Post to Ocean and Back hike leaves from the Presidio Officers’ Club on Saturday, June 20 at 9:00 am and goes until 11:30 am, while the Southern Stroll takes place later that day, from 1:00 to 3:30 pm. Hikers will meet at the Officers’ Club. The hikes conclude on Wednesday, June 24 with the Gate to Gate hike along the Presidio Promenade from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Space is limited. To reserve a spot, call (415) 561-5418.
Each month throughout the year, in its “Experience of the Month,” the Presidio Trust showcases a different aspect of the park that the public might not otherwise have the chance to experience. Trust staff and friends will offer a unique and personal perspective as they peel back the varied layers of the Presidio.
The Presidio Trust was established by the United States Congress in 1996 to oversee the Presidio of San Francisco, an urban national park located at the base of the Golden Gate Bridge. The 1,500-acre site contains expansive open space and spectacular views, a 300-acre historic forest, and rare and endangered plants and wildlife. It also comprises nearly 6 million square feet of buildings, including 469 historic structures that contribute to its status as a National Historic Landmark District.