Bankers Hill's Most Historic & Exceptional Trees

We looked for a residential disrtict that grew up with some amazing old trees surviving many decades. This area is just North of Bankers Hill and is technically called "Crescent Knoll" and has rich architectural history. We called this walk's trees historic and exceptional, although the city hasn't designated them as such.

This walk is about half a mile with steep hills both up and down, along residential streets that sometimes have no sidewalk. 

The exceptional and historic trees that smatter this walk make it worth the challenge - but bring your walking sticks! 

Caution! Steep slopes may make this walk challenging for mobility-impaired walkers. 

Start on the North end of Albatross Street, off Robinson Avenue. Here stands a Eucalyptus tree, two large agaves and one Peruvian pepper tree that are rumored to have been planted by Kate Sessions herself. Kate is a beloved historic figure in San Diego because about 100 years ago she planted trees that have grown to be some of the biggest and most cherished in our community today. Take a gander into Albatross Canyon just beyond this huge Eucalyptus tree before starting your walk. A large Brazilian pepper tree creates shade on this first block, reminding us how vital trees are to a livable village. 

Walk across Robinson Avenue, continuing South on Albatross. Notice a gorgeous residential willow tree, two sculpturesque Chinese elms, and a few very tall eucalyptus trees. There are also some exceptional gardens along this street and a tree-like prickly pear cactus! 

At the roundabout sits a gorgeous Atlas Cedar tree. Turn right onto Pennsylvania Avenue. Go down the big hill to see a residential Redwood grove, two Colter pines and a pepper tree. A tall saguaro cactus is right across the street. 

Continuing around the corner to the right, 3 very tall Eucalyptus trees grow and the bottom of the hill. Were these also planted by Kate? 

Follow Pennsylvania Avenue left to emerge from the canyon onto Curlew Street. Turn right and head up the hill. Enjoy the shade of a street tree on this block and notice its roots buckling the sidewalk. There are two sides to every story, and this one is no different: This tree grew well enough to create a shady reprieve from the hot San Diego sun, but in doing so has created a tripping hazard and impaired the accessibility of the sidewalk. 

At the top of the hill, follow the road around and end up on Robinson Avenue. If you wish to continue exploring the exceptional trees, turn right onto Front Street and go to the end of the

block. 

On your left you’ll see two large trees that look similar to the Atlas Cedar earlier, and on the right a Coast Live Oak tree. These oaks are native to our area! The lovely garden at the end of this block is another sight to see - a myriad of colors and flowers to enjoy.

From here, walk back up and turn right toward Fifth Ave for your choice of cuisine. We chose

Goi Chon, a delicious and cheerful Vietnamese restaurant with amenities for customers.