Presidio Trails in San Francisco Temporarily Closed to Dogs for Coyote Pupping Season

San Francisco, CA - Segments of two popular trails in the Presidio of San Francisco will be off-limits to all dogs, both on-leash and off-leash, starting Friday, March 27, 2026, and continuing through early October. The seasonal closure aims to reduce potential conflicts between dogs, their owners, and coyotes during pupping season, when coyote parents become more protective of their dens and young.

The Presidio Trust announced the measure on Monday, March 23. The restricted sections include: The Park Trail from Mountain Lake to the Presidio Promenade (near the Cavalry Stables). And The Bay Area Ridge Trail from Rob Hill Campground to the Presidio Golf Course.

Visitors without dogs may continue to use these trail segments, but the Trust asks everyone to properly dispose of trash in designated receptacles and to report coyote sightings to help minimize human-wildlife interactions.

Coyotes have been a stable part of the Presidio's urban ecosystem since returning to San Francisco in the early 2000s. During spring and summer, parent coyotes often escort pups and exhibit defensive behaviors near den sites. The temporary closures are a standard part of the park's urban wildlife management strategy to promote safe coexistence.

The Presidio encourages dog owners to use the park's many other trails during this period. In general, dogs must remain on leash in most areas of the Presidio, and small dogs should not be walked off-leash due to potential wildlife encounters. Officials advise keeping pets under control at all times and maintaining a safe distance from any coyotes observed.

This annual measure has been implemented in previous years with the goal of lowering incidents between dogs and coyotes. Park visitors are reminded that coyotes are wild animals and should never be fed or approached.

For more information on trail maps, current conditions, and coyote safety tips, visit the Presidio Trust website at presidio.gov.The Santa Monica Observer will continue to monitor wildlife management stories from across California as urban parks balance recreation with natural habitat protection.