Portals of the Past

What you need to know

Earthquake Ruins on a Lake

Six white Corinthian columns stand at the edge of Lloyd Lake in Golden Gate Park. They’re the only surviving piece of the A.N. Towne mansion, a grand Nob Hill home destroyed in the 1906 earthquake and fire. The columns were salvaged and moved to the park as a memorial. They’ve been standing at the lake’s edge ever since, reflected in the water on still mornings.

What Makes It Worth It

The image is striking. Classical columns rising from a grassy bank, framed by eucalyptus trees, mirrored in the lake. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Golden Gate Park for good reason. Early morning, when the lake is calm and the fog is lifting, the reflection is nearly perfect.

The name “Portals of the Past” was given to a famous photograph taken through the mansion’s doorway the morning after the earthquake, looking out over a destroyed city. The columns are all that’s left of that doorway.

A 5-minute stop. There’s nothing to “do” here. Just look, take a photo, appreciate the history. Lloyd Lake is in the western half of the park, away from the busier eastern attractions, so it’s usually quiet.

Skip this if you’re not near the western half of the park already. It’s beautiful but not worth a special trip.

Visiting

Address: Lloyd Lake, Golden Gate Park (near 25th Avenue and Fulton Street)

Hours: Dawn to dusk

Cost: Free

Best time to go: Early morning for the calmest water and best reflections. Foggy mornings add atmosphere.

What to know: The columns are at the south end of Lloyd Lake. No signage on the main road. You have to walk down to the lake.

Getting There

Transit: Muni 5-Fulton to 25th Avenue, then walk into the park.

Parking: Free street parking along Fulton or inside the park on JFK Drive.

Walking: In the quieter western half of Golden Gate Park. Near Spreckels Lake and the Bison Paddock.

📍 Location: This activity is in The Richmond. Explore the neighborhood →