Strawberry Hill

Great experience to get away from the city within the city at this superfluous urban park. The moat around Strawberry Hill is riveting with several species to gaze upon as you meander the pleasant trails. Several benches to rest as well as lawn areas to plant yourself to bask in the sun to picnic and ponder the SF life. Different layers of clothes is a must as the micro climate is real and shifts throughout the walk in this 6-mile park.

This is the literal high point within Golden Gate park and it is well worth it for the views. It seems to be somewhat of a hidden gem as there were very few people on top during a gorgeous day.

So much to see without spending a penny. We park (for free) along Stow Lake Drive and walk the path to cross Rustic (Boulder) Bridge, which rowboats & paddle boats pass under. An easy, relatively flat walk on the island/hill goes past the Golden Gate (Chinese) pavilion and then to the base of Huntington Falls. Or you can trek up to the top of Strawberry Hill for a distant view of the Golden Gate bridge. Take a picnic and stay awhile. Then walk down the stairs that go along side Huntington Falls. Many photo opportunities of birds, plants, water. Especially peaceful on weekdays!

This hill, in Golden Gate Park, is surrounded by a moat and so you will need to access it via one of the two foot bridges. The walk to the top is not difficult but might be strenuous for those who have difficultly with mobility. At the top of the hill is a clearing where you can take in views of the city and of the Golden Gate Bridge (from afar). While we were there, we happened to see a tai chi group, and a few hawks near the reservoir at the top of the hill.

We got some of the best pictures of the park around Strawberry Hill. The water, bridges, trees and birds are all really amazing. It was early morning and the light through the trees was almost over worldly.

Literally AND Figuratively!
Where nature meets magnificent views.
Bring a sturdy pair of walking shoes as there are both Trails and stairs to get to the top.
A real highlight of San Francisco for me.
1981

Very nice place, nice view from the city between the nature! There were some families having a picnick, easy to access , into the Golden Gate Park! I recommend

Cute little area inside Golden Gate Park around Lake Stow. Great views of the city at the top of the hill. The walk/hike itself was very easy and just stunning this time of year with all the greenery, cala lillies and flora and fauna. Another wonderful dog friendly walk as well!

The day we visited was rainy, overcast, and generally dreary. That only slightly dampened the experience at Strawberry Hill. The climb was a bit muddy, but it was still a beautiful setting that felt like we were miles from the city. Once reaching the top, we could see wonderful views in all directions. Yes, it definitely would be nicer on a warm, sunny day, but we were able to enjoy the walk without having to share it with more than four other people and one dog.

A relaxing island in the middle of Stow Lake. Relax, picnic, read, meditate, listen to Huntington Falls, visit the small Chinese pavilion, watch the boaters. Accessible by two bridges - Roman Bridge and Rustic Bridge. The island used to be covered by wood strawberries. Not so many now, drowned out by modern invaders. Enjoy!