Heard about a new family at the Presidio's El Polin Spring since my last visit. Watched a video of the ducklings on Facebook and went to check 'em out in person. However, no ducks seen today -- just an amazing number of different birds, including a couple of hummingbirds; and damselflies and butterflies.
Not that one needs an excuse to visit this renovated little valley that's behind the Main Post and just downhill from Inspiration Point Overlook (views from: first two pics). And the Ecology Trail (next three pix) connects everything, including the new stairway down from the west side to the picnic area and ponds.
Started from the Presidio Blvd. Gate onto Lovers Lane. One trail I especially like around here is down from Lovers Lane, between the Mountain Lake Trail to the south and residential areas to the north.
It's a short, easy walk to El Polin Spring from here. Down the older stairway from the east this time (about 30 steps: last two pics) onto the boardwalk, the whole area now looking noticeably greener and new-plantings flags in evidence. It's so peaceful down here next to the ponds. Sign icons for dogs-on-leash and no-bikes have been added here since my last visit.
When I could force myself to leave the sunny picnic area, ascended the newer stairway (about 69 steps) to the Ecology Trail. Found a few ripe early blackberries on the way back uphill to exit at the Arguello Gate.