San Francisco, a city celebrated for its iconic hills and breathtaking vistas, holds a treasure trove of urban hiking experiences beyond the famed Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Among these hidden gems are the Filbert Street Steps, a unique pedestrian pathway that ascends from the bustling waterfront to the historic Coit Tower. Starting just a couple of blocks from the Embarcadero on Sansome Street, these steps offer not only a fantastic workout but also a journey through charming gardens and panoramic bay views.
Are you ready to explore one of San Francisco’s most distinctive attractions? This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the Filbert Street Steps, from locating the starting point to what awaits you during your invigorating climb.
Embarking on Your Ascent: The Lower Filbert Street Steps
Your adventure begins just off Sansome Street, where you’ll find the initial segment of the Filbert Street Steps. Easily noticeable as you enter this quiet street, the first set is constructed of metal and quite steep, immediately signaling the start of your uphill trek.
Metal stairs marking the beginning of the Filbert Street Steps near Sansome Street
Don’t let the somewhat industrial appearance of these first steps deter you. They are merely the prelude to the more enchanting sections that lie ahead. Once you conquer this initial climb, the true character of the Filbert Street Steps reveals itself, transitioning into wooden and concrete steps embraced by lush gardens.
As you continue upwards, the steps become lined with a vibrant array of plants and flowers, creating a picturesque pathway. Soon, you’ll encounter Napier Lane, a quaint side street branching off from the main steps.
Charming Napier Lane with wooden stairs and cottage gardens
Napier Lane is worth a brief detour. This charming lane, adorned with more greenery, blossoms, and adorable cottages, offers a peaceful respite. However, remember it’s a cul-de-sac, so you’ll need to return to the Filbert Street Steps to continue your upward journey.
Shortly after Napier Lane, a sign marks the entrance to the Grace Marchant Gardens, a testament to community and dedication.
Sign for Grace Marchant Gardens along Filbert Street Steps
This garden is not only a visual delight but also a haven for birds, most notably the famed Parrots of Telegraph Hill. Keep your eyes and ears open for these vibrant birds as you ascend. They are often heard before they are seen, and you might spot them enjoying the red berries on some of the local plants.
The Story Behind the Beauty: Grace Marchant and Gary Kray
The transformation of this area from a neglected dumping ground to a stunning garden is a remarkable story of dedication. Grace Marchant, a resident who moved nearby in 1949, initiated this change. Disheartened by the area’s misuse as an illegal dumping site, she sought permission from the city to clean it up. For decades, Grace tirelessly worked to clear the garbage and cultivate the space into a beautiful garden for all to enjoy.
Her legacy was continued by Gary Kray in 1979, who dedicated his life to maintaining and enhancing the gardens until 2012. Today, local residents continue their efforts, ensuring the Filbert Street Steps remain a clean and beautifully gardened public space.
Reaching Montgomery Street: Views and Art Deco Delights
Continuing your climb up the wooden stairs, you’ll eventually reach Montgomery Street. This intersection is an excellent point to pause, catch your breath, and turn around to admire the unfolding views behind you.
Panoramic view of the Bay Bridge and Treasure Island from Filbert Street Steps
From this vantage point, you’ll be treated to spectacular sights of the San Francisco Bay, Treasure Island, and the majestic Bay Bridge.
Once you’ve soaked in the panoramic vista, turn your attention to the building on the south side of the stairs. Here, you’ll discover striking Art Deco artwork adorning its façade.
Art Deco architectural details on a building near Filbert Street Steps
There are three distinct Art Deco pieces to admire on this building, adding a touch of urban artistry to your nature-filled walk.
Navigating Montgomery Street and Continuing the Ascent
After crossing the first block of stairs, you’ll encounter a short set of steps situated in the median of Montgomery Street. Due to the steep terrain, Montgomery Street splits here, with lanes at different elevations going in opposite directions.
Make your way to the central staircase to ascend to the higher section of Montgomery Street. Crossing the street will lead you to the second block of your Filbert Street Steps journey.
Upper Filbert Street Steps: Gardens and Statues on the Way to Coit Tower
The section of the Filbert Street Steps from Montgomery Street to Telegraph Hill Boulevard is characterized by more vibrant gardens, interspersed with charming statues, and, of course, more stairs.
This segment is primarily constructed of concrete and follows a more direct upward path. You’ll often see fellow climbers on this section, sharing the experience.
Concrete steps and garden along the Filbert Street Steps at Montgomery Street
During your walk, take time to appreciate the meticulously maintained gardens. Depending on the season, you’ll find a variety of flowers in bloom, ensuring a colorful and delightful experience year-round.
Close-up of pink flowers blooming in the garden along Filbert Street Steps
Upon reaching the top of these stairs, you’ll arrive at the intersection of Filbert Street and Telegraph Hill Boulevard. From here, you have a choice to reach Coit Tower. You can turn right and take the gently sloping sidewalk leading to the Coit Tower parking lot, or cross Telegraph Hill Boulevard to tackle the final set of stairs directly up to the tower. Opting for the sidewalk will lead you to the front of Coit Tower, where you can ascend a final set of stairs to enter.
In total, climbing the Filbert Street Steps to Telegraph Hill Boulevard involves around 400 steps. Choosing the final stairway to Coit Tower adds approximately 100 more, totaling about 500 steps to reach the entrance of Coit Tower.
Local Tip: For a varied experience, consider exploring the Greenwich Street Steps, located just one block north. Many locals enjoy ascending one set of stairs and descending the other for a unique perspective of Telegraph Hill.
Guided Tours: Enhance Your Filbert Street Steps Experience
For a richer understanding of the Filbert Street Steps and the surrounding Telegraph Hill area, consider joining a guided walking tour.
San Francisco Urban Hike – Coit Tower, Lombard Street, and North Beach: This comprehensive 3-hour tour, available through Viator, starts with an ascent of the Filbert Street Steps, providing insights along the way. It includes a visit to Coit Tower and continues to other iconic locations like Lombard Street and North Beach. Be prepared for a strenuous but rewarding urban hike.
Telegraph Hill Stairway Hike: Offered by SF City Guides, this free 2-hour tour focuses on Coit Tower and descending the Filbert Street Steps. It delves into the history of Telegraph Hill and the stories behind its landmarks. While free, donations are encouraged to support SF City Guides.
Exploring More San Francisco Stairways
If you enjoy the Filbert Street Steps, San Francisco boasts numerous other impressive stairways worth exploring.
16th Avenue Mosaic Stairs: Located in the Sunset District, these stairs are adorned with stunning mosaic tiles depicting the sun, moon, and swirling sea creatures.
Hidden Garden Steps: Near the 16th Avenue Mosaic Stairs, these steps feature beautiful flower mosaic designs and offer a more secluded and tranquil experience.
Discover More Stairways: San Francisco is full of unique stairways waiting to be explored.
About the Author:
Hi, I’m Jill! As a San Francisco local, I’m passionate about sharing insider tips to help you experience the best of this amazing city.
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