San Franciscans, as a collective whole, love to talk about those isolated hilltop spots for those urban sweeping views. Although the
best view is always a debatable item in any local dialogue and in the past,
SF Weekly has highlighted one such spot, we've simply decided to highlight one more worth our attention:
The Vulcan Steps.
Located clandestinely off Ord Street and adjacent to the more recognizable Corona Heights Park, The Vulcan Steps are among the best of San Francisco's numerous stairways carved into the hilly landscape. Originally laid out on
Oct. 23, 1925, they are constructed primarily of concrete and span approximately two city blocks.
The steps separate into two divergent paths part-way up the incline. A small wood and plank trail reconnects the paths closer to the top of the steps. The Vulcan Steps create a pedestrian shortcut path over the hill between the Castro and the Haight Ashbury districts.
The traditional views of the Financial District and Civic Center are barely visible but it's for the better because your attention is diverted toward Eureka Valley and the Mission (a true locals' view). Yet the best vista isn't one looking over the horizon but along the steps. The Victorian Houses in this neck of the woods are eclectic by nature and reflective of their owners—from bright color palettes to kitschy porch/window decor. Nearly all of the houses are accessible only by foot.
So go head and take the climb. Even if you don't savor the simple hidden beauty of The Vulcan Steps, at least you'll get your leg work out out of the way.
