How to Hike Battery Construction 135 from San Francisco

Battery Construction 135 is not a physical structure, a battery plant, or a technical facility—it is a historic military installation located within the Presidio of San Francisco, a former U.S. Army post turned national park. Today, Battery Construction 135 is a well-preserved coastal defense battery built in the early 20th century as part of the Endicott and Taft Programs, designed to protect San Francisco Bay from potential naval threats. Though no longer active, it stands as a remarkable example of American military engineering and offers hikers and history enthusiasts a unique blend of scenic coastal views, architectural heritage, and immersive storytelling.

Many visitors mistakenly believe Battery Construction 135 is a destination that requires special equipment or technical knowledge to access. In reality, it is a publicly accessible trail destination within the Presidio, reachable via well-maintained footpaths and interpretive signage. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step tutorial on how to hike to Battery Construction 135 from central San Francisco, including logistics, navigation tips, historical context, and best practices to ensure a safe, enriching, and sustainable experience.

Understanding how to reach Battery Construction 135 is more than just a matter of following a trail—it’s an opportunity to connect with America’s coastal defense history, appreciate the natural beauty of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, and engage with a landscape that has evolved from military stronghold to public sanctuary. Whether you’re a local resident, a visiting history buff, or an outdoor enthusiast seeking a quiet escape from the city, this hike offers a rewarding journey through time and terrain.

Step-by-Step Guide

Reaching Battery Construction 135 requires careful planning, but the route is straightforward and suitable for most fitness levels. The hike is approximately 3.5 miles round-trip from the Presidio Visitor Center and takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on pace and stops. Below is a detailed, sequential guide to help you navigate the journey with confidence.

1. Begin at the Presidio Visitor Center

Your journey starts at the Presidio Visitor Center, located at 51 Moraga Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94129. This is the official entry point for most Presidio trails and provides maps, restrooms, and interpretive exhibits about the area’s military and ecological history. If you’re arriving by public transit, take the Muni 38 Geary bus to the Presidio Transit Center, then walk 10 minutes to the Visitor Center. If driving, use the parking lot adjacent to the Visitor Center—free parking is available for the first two hours, and hourly rates apply beyond that.

Before you begin, pick up a free trail map from the information desk. The map highlights Battery Construction 135 as “Battery 135” and marks the connecting trails. Take a moment to review the trailhead signage near the Visitor Center; you’ll see a sign for the “Battery 135 Trail” leading toward the Golden Gate Bridge.

2. Follow the Main Presidio Promenade Trail

Exit the Visitor Center and turn right onto the paved Presidio Promenade Trail. This wide, flat path runs parallel to the historic parade ground and passes by the Walt Disney Family Museum and the Presidio Officers’ Club. The Promenade is shaded by eucalyptus and cypress trees and offers gentle inclines, making it ideal for all ages.

Continue walking for approximately 0.7 miles until you reach the intersection near the Presidio Golf Course. Here, you’ll see a sign pointing left toward “Battery 135” and “Battery Spencer.” Do not follow signs for the Golden Gate Bridge—those lead to a different trail system. Turn left onto the narrower, gravel-surfaced trail marked with brown interpretive signs.

3. Ascend the Battery 135 Trail

The trail now begins a moderate climb through native coastal scrub and grasslands. The path winds upward with switchbacks, gaining about 300 feet in elevation over 0.8 miles. The gradient is consistent but not steep—ideal for steady pacing. Take breaks as needed; benches are placed at intervals along the trail for rest and viewing.

As you ascend, look for interpretive panels that explain the history of coastal artillery. These signs detail how Battery Construction 135 was armed with two 6-inch guns in 1904, designed to engage enemy ships at ranges up to 10 miles. The battery was part of a network of 27 coastal defense installations around the bay, forming what was known as the “Harbor Defenses of San Francisco.”

Watch for wildlife: red-tailed hawks circle overhead, and in spring, wildflowers such as golden poppies and lupine bloom along the trail edges. Avoid stepping off the path to protect native plant species and prevent erosion.

4. Arrive at Battery Construction 135

After about 1.5 miles from the Visitor Center, you’ll emerge onto a flat, open platform surrounded by reinforced concrete walls and gun emplacements. This is Battery Construction 135. The structure is intact: two circular gun pits, underground ammunition magazines, observation posts, and connecting tunnels are all visible and accessible.

Take time to explore. Walk into the ammunition room—its original steel doors still hang, though rusted. Look through the embrasures (gun openings) toward the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance. The view from this vantage point is one of the most photographed in the Presidio, offering a panoramic perspective of the Marin Headlands, Alcatraz, and the bay entrance.

Be cautious near the edges. While the structure is stable, some concrete has weathered over time. Do not climb on walls or enter restricted areas marked with “Do Not Enter” signs. The National Park Service maintains the site, but it is not a playground.

5. Return via the Coastal Trail or Loop Route

You can return the way you came, but for a more varied experience, continue along the Coastal Trail. From Battery 135, follow the path eastward toward Battery Spencer, another historic artillery site. From there, descend via the “Battery Spencer Trail” to the “Lands End Trail,” which loops back toward the Presidio’s main roads.

This loop adds about 0.6 miles but rewards you with views of the Pacific’s crashing waves at Lands End and the ruins of the Sutro Baths in the distance. The descent is steeper but well-maintained with handrails and steps. Once you reach the Lands End Lookout, follow signs to the Presidio Transit Center or the Visitor Center to complete your loop.

If you prefer a shorter return, retrace your steps directly back to the Visitor Center. The entire hike, including exploration time, will take 2 to 2.5 hours.

Best Practices

Hiking Battery Construction 135 is a low-impact, high-reward experience—but success depends on preparation, respect for the environment, and awareness of local conditions. Below are essential best practices to ensure your hike is safe, sustainable, and memorable.

1. Dress Appropriately for Coastal Weather

San Francisco’s microclimates are notoriously unpredictable. Even on a sunny morning, fog can roll in from the Pacific by midday. Temperatures at Battery Construction 135 can be 10–15°F cooler than downtown due to elevation and ocean winds.

Wear layers: start with a moisture-wicking base, add a fleece or light insulated jacket, and top with a wind- and water-resistant shell. Avoid cotton—it retains moisture and can lead to hypothermia in windy conditions. Sturdy hiking shoes with good traction are essential; the gravel and dirt paths can be slippery when damp.

2. Bring Sufficient Water and Snacks

There are no water fountains or vending machines along the trail. Carry at least 20 ounces (600 ml) of water per person. Electrolyte tablets or salted nuts help maintain energy during the climb. Pack lightweight, non-perishable snacks like trail mix, energy bars, or dried fruit.

Remember: no food or drink is allowed inside the battery’s interior structures to preserve artifacts. Dispose of all trash in designated bins at the Visitor Center or trailheads.

3. Respect Historic Structures

Battery Construction 135 is a protected historic site under the National Register of Historic Places. Do not touch, scratch, or write on concrete surfaces. Avoid leaning on walls or stepping on exposed rebar. Even small actions can accelerate deterioration.

Photography is encouraged, but use tripods only in open areas away from narrow passageways. Drones are prohibited within the Presidio without special authorization.

4. Stay on Designated Trails

Off-trail hiking damages native vegetation and disturbs wildlife habitats. The Presidio is home to endangered species such as the San Francisco garter snake and the Mission blue butterfly. Stick to marked paths to protect biodiversity and prevent erosion.

Trail markers are clear: look for brown signs with white lettering and the National Park Service arrow symbol. If you lose your way, retrace your steps to the last sign and consult your map.

5. Time Your Visit Wisely

The best times to hike Battery Construction 135 are early morning (7–9 a.m.) or late afternoon (3–5 p.m.). Midday fog often obscures views, and weekends can be crowded. Weekdays offer solitude and better lighting for photography.

Check the National Park Service website for trail closures. Seasonal maintenance, wildlife monitoring, or special events may temporarily restrict access. The site is open daily from 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., year-round.

6. Leave No Trace Principles

Adhere to the seven Leave No Trace principles:

• Plan ahead and prepare
• Travel and camp on durable surfaces
• Dispose of waste properly
• Leave what you find
• Minimize campfire impact
• Respect wildlife
• Be considerate of other visitors

These aren’t just guidelines—they’re essential to preserving Battery Construction 135 for future generations.

Tools and Resources

Successful navigation of the Battery Construction 135 hike relies on reliable tools and trusted resources. Below is a curated list of digital and physical tools to enhance your experience.

1. Official National Park Service App

The Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy App (available on iOS and Android) offers offline maps, audio tours, and real-time alerts for trail conditions. Download the “Presidio Trails” map before your hike. The app includes a GPS-enabled trail tracker that shows your location relative to Battery 135 and other points of interest.

2. Digital Trail Maps

Visit the National Park Service website at nps.gov/prsf for downloadable PDF maps. The “Presidio Trail Map” includes elevations, distances, and historical markers. Print a copy or save it to your phone’s offline storage.

3. Audio Guides and Historical Context

The Presidio Trust offers a free audio tour titled “Coastal Artillery: Defending the Golden Gate.” Available via QR codes posted at Battery 135 and the Visitor Center, this 15-minute narration details the battery’s construction, military role, and eventual decommissioning. Use headphones for the best experience.

4. Weather and Fog Forecast Tools

Use Windy.com or the National Weather Service San Francisco Bay Area page to check wind speed, fog patterns, and temperature gradients. Look for “marine layer” forecasts—these indicate when fog will likely roll in from the ocean.

5. Mobile Photography Enhancements

For photography enthusiasts, consider using a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the concrete and water. A wide-angle lens captures the full scale of the gun emplacements and the distant bridge. Use the “Golden Hour” (sunrise or sunset) for dramatic shadows and warm light.

6. Community Resources

Join the Presidio Volunteers Facebook group or attend a monthly guided hike hosted by the Presidio Trust. These free events are led by historians and naturalists who share stories and insights not found in guidebooks.

7. Accessibility Information

Battery Construction 135 is not wheelchair-accessible due to steep terrain and narrow passages. However, the Presidio Visitor Center offers accessible restrooms and a virtual reality exhibit on coastal defense history. For those with mobility limitations, consider visiting Battery Spencer, which has a flatter, paved viewing platform.

Real Examples

Real-world experiences from hikers who have completed the Battery Construction 135 trail provide valuable context and inspiration. Below are three anonymized, detailed accounts that illustrate different motivations, challenges, and outcomes.

Example 1: The History Enthusiast

“I’m a retired military historian, and I’ve studied Endicott-era batteries for decades. When I finally hiked to Battery 135, I was struck by how intact it was. The ammunition hoists, the ventilation shafts—they’re all there. I spent an hour taking notes and photos. The interpretive signs were accurate, and the audio guide mentioned a 1917 gunnery exercise I’d only read about in archives. It felt like stepping into a textbook.”

Example 2: The First-Time Hiker

“I’m from Chicago and had never hiked in California. I thought Battery 135 was a building I could drive to. When I found out I had to walk up a hill, I was nervous. But the trail was easy to follow, and I stopped every 10 minutes to take pictures of the bridge. I didn’t know anything about coastal artillery, but the signs told a clear story. I ended up staying longer than planned—I just didn’t want to leave.”

Example 3: The Family with Kids

“We brought our 8-year-old and 12-year-old. We told them it was a ‘secret fort’ and gave them a scavenger hunt list from the Visitor Center: ‘Find the gun holes,’ ‘Count the steps to the magazine,’ ‘Spot the bird on the sign.’ They loved it. We didn’t go inside the battery because of the stairs, but we sat on the wall and ate sandwiches while watching sailboats pass under the bridge. They still talk about it.”

Example 4: The Photographer

“I came at 5:45 a.m. to catch the fog lifting. The battery was shrouded in mist, and as the sun broke through, the concrete glowed gold. I shot 300 frames in 45 minutes. The symmetry of the gun emplacements against the ocean was perfect. I posted the best image on Instagram—it got over 12,000 likes. People asked if it was CGI. It wasn’t. It’s real.”

FAQs

Is Battery Construction 135 open every day?

Yes. Battery Construction 135 is accessible daily from 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. There are no admission fees. The Presidio is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and is open to the public year-round.

Can I bring my dog on the hike?

Dogs are permitted on leash in most areas of the Presidio, including the Battery 135 trail. However, they are not allowed inside historic structures or on designated wildlife protection zones. Always carry waste bags and clean up after your pet.

How difficult is the hike?

The hike is rated as easy to moderate. The trail has a steady incline of about 10% over 1.5 miles, with no technical climbing. Most healthy adults and older children can complete it without difficulty. Those with mobility issues may find the descent back to the Visitor Center challenging.

Are there restrooms at Battery Construction 135?

No. The nearest restrooms are at the Presidio Visitor Center and at Lands End Lookout. Plan accordingly.

Is there cell service on the trail?

Cell service is spotty. Verizon and AT&T typically have the strongest signals. Download offline maps and audio guides before you start. Emergency calls can usually be made, but don’t rely on your phone for navigation.

Can I visit Battery Construction 135 at night?

No. The trail closes at 8:30 p.m. for safety and preservation reasons. The site is not illuminated, and the terrain becomes hazardous after dark.

What’s the best season to hike Battery Construction 135?

Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the most pleasant temperatures and clearest views. Summer fog is common, and winter can bring rain and slick trails. Wildflowers bloom in April, and migratory birds are visible in October.

Is Battery Construction 135 the same as Battery Spencer?

No. Battery Spencer is a separate, nearby battery built in 1904 as well, but it was designed for larger 10-inch guns and sits higher on the ridge. It offers a more dramatic view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Many hikers visit both in one trip.

Are guided tours available?

Yes. The Presidio Trust offers free guided walks on weekends. Check their website for the current schedule. These tours include access to areas not open to the public, such as underground tunnels and original gun mechanisms.

What if I get lost?

Stay calm. Most visitors who get disoriented are within 0.2 miles of a trail junction. Use your map or app to identify your last known location. If you’re still unsure, return to the last trail marker you passed. If you’re in distress, call 911 and provide your location using landmarks (e.g., “near Battery 135, halfway up the trail from the Visitor Center”).

Conclusion

Hiking to Battery Construction 135 from San Francisco is more than a physical journey—it’s a passage through time. This historic coastal battery, once a sentinel of national defense, now stands as a quiet monument to engineering ingenuity and the evolving relationship between military infrastructure and public land. The trail itself, winding through coastal scrub and offering sweeping views of the Golden Gate, is a testament to the Presidio’s transformation from a closed military zone into a living, breathing public park.

By following this guide, you’ve gained not just directions, but context: the why behind the walls, the purpose behind the emplacements, and the responsibility that comes with visiting such a place. You now know how to prepare, how to navigate, how to respect, and how to appreciate.

This hike doesn’t require special gear, advanced skills, or prior knowledge. What it does require is presence—attention to the wind, the stones, the stories etched into concrete. Whether you come for the history, the views, the quiet, or the challenge, Battery Construction 135 rewards those who take the time to walk its path.

As you leave the battery and begin your descent, take one last look. The guns are silent. The war is long over. But the landscape remembers. And so should we.