Length
2.5
miles - (4.0
) kilometers
Challenge Level
Easy to moderate
Use Type
Multiuse (pedestrians and cyclists); Pedestrian only in sections; No dogs permitted
Grade
Average grade is 4%
Maximum grade is 15%
Cross Slope
Average cross slope is 2%
Maximum cross slope is 6%
Tread Width
Average tread width is 8 feet
Minimum width is 3 feet
Trail Surface
Trail surface is asphalt and compacted soil
Estimated Biking Time (minutes)
15
Estimated Calories Burned
Female: 229
Male: 270
Estimated Walking Time (minutes)
50
Type of Bike Route
Combination of Multiuse Trail, In Road Bike Lanes, and Bike/Car Shared Lanes
The Bay Area Ridge Trail is a continuous 550-mile multi-use loop that circles the highest and often most scenic points around San Francisco Bay. Currently, 340 miles of the loop is open to the public, including the 2.5-mile section that passes through the Presidio.
Starting from Arguello Gate, the Bay Area Ridge Trail hugs the northern perimeter of Presidio Golf Course, eventually intertwining with the Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail and the California Coastal Trail. It ends at the Golden Gate Bridge.
There’s a lot packed in along the way. In fact, this might be the perfect trail for those who relish variety because there are so many different things to see, like the Presidio’s forest, three scenic overlooks, and several must-see historic and cultural points of interest, including
Spire, artist Andy Goldsworthy’s striking 100-foot sculpture made of felled Monterey cypress trunks. The Bay Area Ridge Trail also crosses paths with the Presidio’s only campground, Rob Hill Campground, built on four acres at the park’s highest point.
Helpful hint: Restrooms are located at Presidio Golf Course Clubhouse and the Golden Gate Bridge.
