The hillside neighborhoods West of Twin Peaks

The neighborhoods west of Twin Peaks are known for their terraced and landscaped walkways, stairways, and gardens. On this walk, we'll visit two forests and a wood and two parks- the neighborhoods of Forest Hill, Sherwood Forest, St Francis Wood, Miraloma Park and Mount Davidson Manor. Each of them has a Homeowners' Association or neighborhood group dedicated to creating beautiful, natural surroundings. I'm sure some of them will have their Halloween decorations up- we'll detour to find the most exciting.

We meet at the steps of the West Portal Library at Ulloa and Lenox, immediately to the north of West Portal Station. It is easily accessible by public transportation. MUNI Lines 48, K, L, and M each stop there. West Portal Avenue has metered spots, plus two paid lots. Residential side streets offer free parking, but tend to fill up.

WE BEGIN WALKING AT 3:00 PM Give yourself time to check in and use the restroom at the library. This walk goes up mostly moderate to steep hills and pathways, and has several up and down stairways. We go down the Grand Staircase on Pacheco. Along the way we'll visit a variety of tree-lined and well maintained streets with single family homes, fountains, a Maybeck-designed clubhouse and garden, the Bengal Alley Street Park, and private, members-only parks.

We will be walking through hilly neighborhoods known for their winding streets, passageways, and stairs. The walk veers towards the strenuous side, but we walk at a steady, moderate pace taking breaks as needed. I always think these walks will take about 3 hours, but they tend to run a bit longer. We start and end on West Portal Avenue, which is a hub for the entire area. There is one short restroom break at Portola and Teresita. Although the weather may be warm, this is the foggy side of town. You know what San Franciscans always say -- dress in layers!

Wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather.
Bring water, a snack you can eat while walking, and a camera.

ATTENDANCE POLICY--
This groups limits the number of participants for each event, and relies on its members to be accountable for their attendance. Only RSVP yes if you intend to attend. No showing, placeholding, and late cancelling are grounds for removal. This walk is only open to City Steps members .

DOGGIE GUEST RULES--
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on this walk.

LIABILITY & SAFETY--
You are responsible for your own safety on all City Steps walks. Your yes RSVP confirms that you have read and agree to the liability waiver found at the bottom of every Meetup page.

AFTER THE WALK: the charming commercial corridor on West Portal awaits you with a variety of shops, cafes, restaurants, wine bars, and ice cream parlors.