Where is Bernal Heights?
South of the Mission, across Cesar Chavez Street, all within ZIP 94110. US 101 runs along the east side, Interstate 280 and Alemany Boulevard curve along the south, and Glen Park and Noe Valley are to the west. The hill itself, Bernal Heights Park, rises in the middle with its radio tower on top.
Where is the main street?
Cortland Avenue runs across the south side of the hill with cafes, a library and small shops. Precita Park sits at the north foot of the hill, Holly Park is on the southwest side, and the Alemany Farmers' Market is at the southern edge.
Why are some homes hard to reach?
The streets wrap around a steep hill. Some are narrow with parking on both sides, some dead-end, and a few become public stairways where the slope is too steep for a road. A full-size truck cannot always get to the front door, so the carry can be longer than the address suggests.
Where does the truck park?
As close as the street allows. On narrow blocks, a reserved stretch of curb makes a big difference. The SFMTA authorizes temporary no-parking signs; our SF parking permit guide covers the process, including posting the signs ahead of time, commonly around 72 hours.
On the steepest streets we choose a safe, level spot first and plan the carry from there. Cortland Avenue is busy during the day, so homes near it may be better served from a side street.
How should I prepare?
Walk the route from the street to your door and note steps, gates and tight turns. Measure your largest furniture against the narrowest door. Tell us if your street is a dead end or a stairway. Pack a first-night box, and keep valuables and documents with you.
What are the homes like?
Mostly small: workers' cottages, Victorians and Edwardians on narrow lots, many with front stairs, plus newer homes stepped into the slope. Rooms and doorways are compact, so large furniture often comes apart for the move. Disassembly and reassembly come with a full-service move.
