Green DogWalks

Microgeographies on Bernal Hill

The Saddle is a large, gentle slope that lies far from traffic. These characteristics make it easy to keep an eye on your dog and his pals as they chase balls and run through the grass. The area is largely covered with invasive species, making it a lower priority for restoration. It's a great place to throw balls while you take in views of the Bay and downtown.

The Eastern Quarry mined in the 20th century. Lacking vegetation, this area has a low restoration value. Dogs with excellent recall skills may enjoy playing ball or running up the slopes at this site, which is near Bernal Heights Boulevard.

The Southern Quarry was also mined illegally, leaving it largely denuded. This flat area is another good spot for ball play as the road has been recently closed to traffic here. Lacking soil and vegetation, this site has a low restoration value, making it a good spot for activities such as strenuous, uphill ball play.

The Esmeralda Steps site has a high restoration value and a high propensity for erosion. This northwest slope of Bernal hosts one of the richest native grasslands in San Francisco. American Kestrels hunt gophers on the slopes, rushing out of the coyote brush on the steep hillside. This is a beautiful area to enjoy on designated trails or from the paved path. Rather than throwing balls up these steep slopes, consider using one of the aforementioned sites.

The Coso Gully also has a high restoration value, with a particularly rich grassland above this natural runoff channel. To slow erosion and protect trails, use maintained pathways to access this area.