1G - Lone Mountain

San Francisco’s Historic Hilltop Gem

📍 Neighborhood Boundaries:

• North: California Street

• South: Fulton Street (Golden Gate Park)

• East: Masonic Avenue

• West: Parker Avenue

📌 City District: District 1 (Richmond District)
📮 Zip Code: 94118

Sitting atop one of San Francisco’s scenic hilltops, Lone Mountain is a small but historically significant neighborhood that offers stunning city views, classic architecture, and a strong sense of community. Home to the University of San Francisco (USF), this area is a unique blend of academia, history, and residential charm, making it one of SF’s best-kept secrets.

If you’re looking for tree-lined streets, historic homes, and easy access to both Golden Gate Park and city amenities, Lone Mountain is a peaceful yet central spot to call home.

A Neighborhood of History & Prestige

Lone Mountain stands out for its elevated location and rich history, offering a mix of beautiful residences, university life, and cultural landmarks.

🏡 The Homes – A mix of classic Edwardian, Tudor, and Mediterranean-style homes, along with modern condos and university buildings.

🎓 A Hub of Learning – The neighborhood is home to the University of San Francisco, one of California’s oldest institutions, founded in 1855.

🏔 A Historic Peak – Lone Mountain was originally a cemetery in the 1800s, later converted into one of SF’s most prestigious neighborhoods.

🚶 A Central Yet Serene Feel – Despite being close to major streets, Lone Mountain maintains a quiet, residential atmosphere.

Dining & Shopping Near Lone Mountain

While Lone Mountain itself is mostly residential, it’s just a short walk to some of SF’s best food and shopping hubs, including Inner Richmond, NOPA, and Laurel Heights.

Best Spots Near Lone Mountain:

🍞 Arsicault Bakery – Known for San Francisco’s most famous croissants.
🍔 Roam Artisan Burgers – A go-to spot for organic, grass-fed gourmet burgers.
☕ The Mill – One of SF’s most popular cafés, famous for handmade toast and expertly brewed coffee.
🥗 Nopalito – A highly-rated Mexican eatery serving farm-to-table dishes and housemade tortillas.
🍺 Barrel Head Brewhouse – A laid-back neighborhood brewery with great craft beers and pub food.

Outdoor Beauty & Activities

Lone Mountain offers quick access to some of SF’s best parks and scenic spots.

🌳 Golden Gate Park – Just a five-minute walk away, featuring the de Young Museum, Academy of Sciences, and miles of scenic trails.

🏞 USF Lone Mountain Campus – Home to one of the best panoramic views of San Francisco, with a spectacular lookout point from the Lone Mountain Steps.

🌲 The Presidio – A short ride away, this national park offers hiking, picnics, and Golden Gate Bridge views.

🚴 The Panhandle – A perfect biking and jogging path, connecting Lone Mountain to Haight-Ashbury and Golden Gate Park.

Unique & Little-Known Facts

🔹 It Was Once a Cemetery – In the 1800s, Lone Mountain was the site of San Francisco’s largest burial grounds, before the graves were moved to Colma.

🔹 A Secret Rooftop View – The USF Lone Mountain Steps offer one of the best hidden skyline views in the city—a perfect spot for sunrise or sunset.

🔹 Celebrity History – Robin Williams was known to frequent the neighborhood, especially the nearby NOPA and Inner Richmond food spots.

🔹 One of SF’s Steepest Streets – Turk Street, leading up to USF’s Lone Mountain campus, is one of the city’s most challenging hills to walk or bike.

🔹 Once Considered for a Skyscraper – In the early 1900s, developers proposed building a grand skyscraper on Lone Mountain due to its unobstructed city views, but the idea was scrapped.

Why Live in Lone Mountain?

✅ A Historic & Prestigious Neighborhood – One of SF’s most academically and historically rich areas.
✅ Amazing Views – Some of the best panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and downtown SF.
✅ Quiet & Residential – A peaceful, family-friendly vibe while still being centrally located.
✅ Great Outdoor Access – Walk to Golden Gate Park, The Presidio, and the Panhandle in minutes.
✅ Excellent Schools – Close to USF, French American International School, and top-rated public schools.

Lone Mountain is one of San Francisco’s most unique and historically significant neighborhoods, offering breathtaking views, classic architecture, and a central-yet-tranquil atmosphere.

If you’re looking for a charming, hilltop community with history, prestige, and unbeatable views, Lone Mountain is an SF hidden gem worth exploring.

🌁 Come for the views. Stay for the history. Fall in love with the charm. 🏡✨