Crooked Section

Overview

Nestled within the vibrant Russian Hill neighborhood of San Francisco, the 'Crooked Section' of Lombard Street stands as a globally recognized landmark. This unique one-block stretch, often dubbed 'the crookedest street in the world,' is celebrated for its distinctive design: eight sharp hairpin turns that dramatically descend a steep incline. Paved with picturesque red bricks and beautifully adorned with lush hydrangeas and other flora, it presents a captivating sight for millions of visitors each year.

The famous segment is a one-way street, guiding vehicles slowly downhill at a recommended speed of just 5 mph. From its summit, visitors are treated to breathtaking panoramic vistas of the San Francisco Bay, including iconic landmarks like the Bay Bridge and Coit Tower. Looking up from the bottom, the serpentine path framed by Victorian homes creates an equally striking photographic opportunity, embodying San Francisco's blend of natural beauty and ingenious urban planning.

History & Cultural Background

The origins of Lombard Street's 'Crooked Section' are rooted in a practical solution to a challenging geographical problem. Prior to its transformation, this particular block of Lombard Street was a straight, exceptionally steep incline with a formidable 27 percent grade. This posed significant difficulties for both early automobiles and pedestrians trying to navigate the hill.

In 1922, a local property owner, Carl Henry, proposed the innovative idea of a series of switchbacks to mitigate the dangerous grade. City engineer Clyde Healy played a crucial role in bringing this vision to fruition. The implementation of eight tight turns successfully reduced the slope to a more manageable 16 percent, making the street accessible and safer. In 1939, to further improve traffic flow and safety, the crooked section was designated as one-way, downhill. While the street bears the name Lombard, it has no historical connection to San Francisco itself, being named after a street in Philadelphia. Its now-famous aesthetic, particularly the vibrant hydrangea bushes, was largely cultivated in the 1950s, transforming a functional design into a scenic masterpiece.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets Lombard Street's 'Crooked Section' apart is its masterful blend of urban engineering and aesthetic charm. It’s not merely a winding road but an artistic response to San Francisco's challenging topography. The eight precise turns, combined with the red brick pavement and meticulously maintained landscaping, create a unique visual spectacle that has become synonymous with the city. This architectural marvel demonstrates how necessity can birth beauty, turning a once-impassable slope into a world-renowned attraction.

The experience of traversing these switchbacks, whether by car or on foot, is unlike any other. The deliberate slowness imposed by the curves allows for an intimate appreciation of the surrounding Victorian architecture and the carefully planted flowers. It embodies a creative solution that respects the natural landscape while enhancing its appeal, making it a powerful symbol of San Francisco's innovative spirit.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

• Despite its widespread fame, Lombard Street is not actually the crookedest street in San Francisco. That title often goes to Vermont Street in the city's Potrero Hill neighborhood, which features steeper switchbacks.
• Globally, other streets like Snake Alley in Burlington, Iowa, also lay claim to being the 'crookedest street in the world,' though Lombard's iconic setting makes it the most famous.
• The initial vehicles to navigate these curves were early 1920s Ford Model Ts, a testament to the ingenuity that made the street traversable.
• The street's picturesque appearance was significantly enhanced in the 1950s with the planting of hydrangeas, which bloom for much of the year and contribute to its postcard-perfect image.
• Lombard Street has made numerous appearances in popular culture, including chase scenes in films like 'What's Up, Doc?' and 'Ant-Man and the Wasp,' and was even referenced in the Pixar film 'Inside Out'.
• The Montandon House at 1000 Lombard has its own local legend, reportedly being associated with a 'haunted house' story involving a 1960s socialite.
• Historically, residents on the extremely steep, original street even installed 'chicken cleats' in the sidewalks to aid their ascent and descent before the famous redesign.

Visitor Perspective

Visiting Lombard Street offers two primary experiences: driving its winding path or walking alongside it. For those who choose to drive, expect a slow and careful descent, often accompanied by a queue of fellow enthusiasts, especially during peak hours. The tight turns demand focused attention, but the reward is a unique, almost thrilling, road trip experience.

However, walking is arguably the best way to truly appreciate the 'Crooked Section.' Pedestrian staircases flank both sides of the street, allowing visitors to leisurely stroll, admire the intricate floral arrangements, and capture stunning photographs from various angles. The top of the street offers expansive views of the city and bay, while the bottom provides the classic, head-on shot of the serpentine road. To avoid the busiest crowds and traffic, it is recommended to visit in the early morning or late afternoon. Evening visits can be particularly magical, with the city lights illuminating the dramatic curves. When visiting, it's essential to remember that the elegant homes lining the street are private residences, and respect for the local community is paramount.