As I picked a few late berries near the Mountain Lake Trail, a couple of pooches dropped balls at my feet so threw a few for 'em to chase.
Gazing down at the El Polin Springs site where extensive landfill removal and other major improvements have been going on for the longest time, was mainly walking below the trail and above the fenced construction area over damp eucalyptus leaves and twigs. My hikes are leisurely and unhurried and I often pause to appreciate the views.
An unexpected treat today was the Blue Angels’ practice flight. I wasn’t even thinking about it being that time of year, just poking along, and then there was that familiar sound and this unobstructed view. Almost anywhere in the Presidio is a good place to watch the airshow. Continued up to Inspiration Point Overlook, ascending the wooden stairway (45 steps, second photo) from the Ecology Trail (third pic), finding this to be an excellent place to view the planes.
There weren’t all that many people either, though when the main weekend shows begin I’m sure the area will be packed with people sitting on the wall here. Thinking of trying this spot for a change Saturday or Sunday, though I might also get a bit closer and higher by continuing to Immigrant Point Overlook. There are several excellent possibilities I can think of as long as I’m willing to walk out of the park to catch the bus this year.
Last year was an awesome view from the Battery East Trail (near the Bridge), but it took me around two hours to get home.
This year will walk out of the park and down the hill several blocks to California St. where the buses run a lot more frequently. Of course, people driving in and out of the park won’t have an easy time of it either, as in bumper-to-bumper and good luck finding a parking place.
Inspiration Point Overlook is close to the Arguello Gate. Immigrant Point Overlook is more of a hike to and from but with an even better view. But I don’t mind such a trek now that I’ve already decided not to depend on the bus to exit the park. If it gets too crowded at one of the overlooks, I can just descend to a lower trail.
It started to rain as the Angels seemed to be finishing up and everyone hightailed it off the overlook, but then they continued to buzz the city later while I was on the bus and at home.