SF LABOR DAY CITY WALK: CASTRO STAIRWAYS, SUTRO FOREST & THE PEAKS BETWEEN THEM

SF LABOR DAY CITY WALK: CASTRO STAIRWAYS, SUTRO FOREST & THE PEAKS BETWEEN THEM 

Leader: Gary Weiss

Leader Email: gary@sfhiking.com

Leader Phone: 415-279-5570

Meeting Date and Day: Saturday, August 31, 2024

Meeting Time: 10:00 AM

Departure Time: 10:15 AM

Meeting Place: Harvey Milk Plaza above the Castro MUNI station

Rating: Level-3

Mileage: 7 miles

Elevation Gain: 1400'

Description: I did a version of this classic route a bit over 2 years ago. The route takes us up and over several beautiful hills, peaks and stairways north and west of Castro & Market. We'll have panoramic views in every direction - multiple times during the hike.
We'll start by passing the famous Slickenside before climbing to the top of Corona Heights. From there we'll climb up the Vulcan Stairway, Buena Vista, up to Mt. Olympus, over to Sutro Forest, up past Sutro Tower and Tank Hill for the big loop, down Pemberton Steps, Iron Alley Steps then over Kite Hill and back. Since it's a city hike you can cut out at any time.  There are also a few sections that can be skipped easily if you'd like a shorter route.
If there's a "need" we can stop at my house to use the restroom after descending Mt. Olympus.  Otherwise there are 2 restrooms on Corona Heights.
Last time I checked dogs were okay on the streets of SF, as they outnumber humans.

Bring/Wear: Lunch, snacks (chocolate!), plenty of water, sunscreen, layers and hiking shoes with a good grip for a couple of short, slippery sections.  If you use poles you may consider bringing them along for a couple of steep downhills.

Rain Policy: Contact hike leader if weather is questionable

Carpooling Fee: $6 from Rockridge BART; MUNI from SF.
(Please make sure you've arranged to be picked up at Rockridge before showing up.)