Just to be clear, Maggie agrees totally that the Presidio’s trails are great. She even got some off leash time – little dog in the big City. That happened only on the Presidio’s borders as she’d read the coyote warning signs.
From their super hotel, The Lodge at the Presidio, the Adventurers headed out on what turned out to be a 5 and 1/2 mile hike on the great Presidio trails. As she usually does when in the City, L wondered if any had been around during the Reid family outings.
If they were, she’s pretty sure she’s never been to Mountain Lake (pictured top) before, even though she’s passed it dozens of dozens of time on the way to the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s the last natural lake in the City, and one that was threatened by invasive species over the years, including what is called “pet disposal.” Think alligator, not dogs or cats.
They passed many landmarks, including the National Cemetery, with a lot of up and down climbing, none of which was too difficult. No poles for the L today.
The Mountain Lake Trail travels along the border of the Presidio Heights neighborhood with its grand houses, many of which were being remodeled. HUGE houses. And it’s not like they’re from the hinterland.
The trail back was Lover’s Lane, an historic trail established in the 18th century as a shortcut used by Spanish soldiers and missionaries to get from the Main Post to Mission Dolores, located three miles south of the Presidio. Today work was being down on a footbridge built in 1885 and trees along the trail had candy canes hanging from them.
Timing was perfect for lunch at Presidio Officers’ Club’s dog-friendly Arguello Restaurant …
Hike/moderate/5.65 miles
