Green DogWalks

The Ecologically Sensitive Northwest Slope

This area contains the sites referred to as the Esmeralda Steps and the Coso Gully. Enjoy one of San Francisco's richest grasslands on Bernal's northwest slope.

This area, which includes the sites listed here as the Esmeralda Steps and Coso Gully, has a very high restoration value. The Natural Areas Program tends this grassland by providing stairs for easy access, some trail liners, and propagating the grasses with Bernal harvested seed.

Many factors make this area susceptible to enhanced erosion. While the Natural Areas Program works to quell erosion, park visitors can help, too.

The Esmeralda Steps: The erosion control mat to the right, intended to stabilize the previously denuded slope, is seeded with Nassella pulchra or purple needle grass.

Encourage the success of erosion control measures by calling Roxy off the erosion mat and using the stairs to reach the trails above the road. These projects aim to preserve access for people and dogs by securing the hillside and channeling visitors along stable routes. If you’re looking to give Roxy an uphill workout, then you might explore the Eastern Quarry or Saddle sites.