Lovers Lane Trail

It was established in the 18th century as a shortcut used by Spanish soldiers and missionaries to get to Mission Dolores three miles to the south (though it gets its name because soldiers would use the same route to reach their sweethearts). Today, you can step back in time and follow the very same path.

Choose to start at the south near Presidio Gate or at the north at Presidio Boulevard and Barnard Avenue. An out-and-back trip will include uphill and downhill walking.

East of the path is a forest of eucalyptus, cypress, and pines planted by the Army in the late 19th century. On the west side, you pass charming homes built by the Army in the 1930s.

Horizontal to Lovers Lane is Andy Goldsworthy’s Wood Line, an art installation in the eucalyptus forest made of felled tree trunks laid end-to-end to create a zigzagging installation that you can stroll on top of – it’s a literal art walk!

Lovers Lane also crosses a brick footbridge in MacArthur Meadow. Built around 1885, it connects to a newer bridge that leads you through MacArthur Meadow and over the creek running down Tennessee Hollow from El Polin spring.

Presidio Trails Tip

Restrooms are at Presidio Wall Playground and the Presidio Officers’ Club.