Stow Lake & Strawberry Hill San Francisco
A serene man-made lake in Golden Gate Park, offering boat rentals, scenic walks, and a climb up Strawberry Hill for city views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Stow Lake & Strawberry Hill San Francisco
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene man-made lake in Golden Gate Park, offering boat rentals, scenic walks, and a climb up Strawberry Hill for city views.
"A walk around Stow Lake is a delightful escape into nature's embrace, right in the heart of the city."
🎯 Beat the Geese!
Geese can be territorial and may expect food. Keep a safe distance and avoid feeding them.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and potentially hiking up Strawberry Hill.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Strawberry Hill Hike
Island in Stow Lake
Climb to the top of Strawberry Hill for panoramic views of Golden Gate Park and the city. A must-do for hikers and photographers!
Pedal Boating on Stow Lake
Stow Lake Boathouse
Rent a pedal boat for a fun, relaxing experience on the water, getting up close to wildlife.
Waterfall Views
North side of Stow Lake
Discover the charming waterfall, a picturesque spot often overlooked amidst the park's grandeur.
Wildlife Spotting
Around Stow Lake
Keep an eye out for ducks, geese, turtles, and the majestic Great Blue Herons nesting in the trees.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Geese
Boat Rentals & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beat the Geese!
Geese can be territorial and may expect food. Keep a safe distance and avoid feeding them.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and potentially hiking up Strawberry Hill.
🚗 Parking is Tricky
Limited parking near the boathouse. Consider Muni or biking to avoid hassle.
🛶 Boat Rental Fun
Pedal or row boats offer a unique way to see the lake. Book in advance if possible.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beat the Geese!
Geese can be territorial and may expect food. Keep a safe distance and avoid feeding them.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and potentially hiking up Strawberry Hill.
🚗 Parking is Tricky
Limited parking near the boathouse. Consider Muni or biking to avoid hassle.
🛶 Boat Rental Fun
Pedal or row boats offer a unique way to see the lake. Book in advance if possible.
📸 Photo Opportunities
The lake, waterfall, and Strawberry Hill offer stunning backdrops for photos.
🧺 Picnic Spots Galore
Plenty of benches and grassy areas for a relaxing picnic with a view.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Stow Lake is a beloved spot in Golden Gate Park, praised for its scenic beauty, tranquil atmosphere, and abundance of wildlife. Visitors enjoy the easy walking paths, the option to rent boats, and the rewarding hike up Strawberry Hill. While generally peaceful, some note the presence of goose droppings and limited parking.
"A delightful place for a stroll, especially for anyone with kids or elderly relatives. There is enough room not to feel crowded, parking is easy and there is a general relaxed feeling to the whole place. There are many waterfowl.
There is also a surfeit of goose poop, so step carefully."
Desert Eagle
"This was my first visit, I just loved it. It’s a scenic tranquilizing trail around a lake, you have hiking trails for hikers and a walking trail around the lake for walkers, it’s a beautiful lake with variety of birds🦅 , few coyote 🦊
, geese 🪿, turtle🐢 , lots of squirrels 🐿️ , paid paddling boats🚤(check pictures for tickets 🎫 info). You get to spot Heron, I was lucky to see a heron with 3 babies (check in the pictures). A group with spotting scopes who let kids and people watch birds in the habitat adds to the experience. As it’s connected with golden gate park, you can walk or take free shuttles to get to different points."
Priyanka Navgire
"Pretty place for a chill walk. The waterfall is also nice to see"
Pika Fusion
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stow Lake is located within Golden Gate Park. You can reach it via Muni bus lines that stop nearby, or by biking. Parking is available but can be limited, especially on weekends.
Yes, there is limited parking available at the Blue Heron Boathouse. Street parking is also an option, but can fill up quickly.
Absolutely! Golden Gate Park has many bike paths, making it a great way to access Stow Lake.
Yes, several Muni bus lines serve Golden Gate Park, with stops close to Stow Lake. Check the Muni website for routes and schedules.
Many visitors enjoy biking or walking through the park to reach Stow Lake. There are also free shuttles available within Golden Gate Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Stow Lake and the surrounding park area is free.
Row boats typically cost around $26 per hour, and pedal boats are about $32.50 per hour. Prices may vary.
The boathouse is generally open daily, but hours can vary. On weekdays, it's typically open from 10:30 AM to 4 PM, and on weekends, it may stay open a bit later. It's best to check their current hours.
While not always required, booking in advance, especially for weekends or holidays, is recommended to secure your preferred boat and time slot.
Information on discounts is not widely available, but it's always worth asking at the boathouse when you arrive.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk or hike around the lake, climb Strawberry Hill for views, rent pedal or row boats, enjoy a picnic, and spot various wildlife like ducks and herons.
Yes, the main path around Stow Lake is generally accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Stow Lake, but they should be kept on a leash.
You can often see ducks, geese, turtles, squirrels, and Great Blue Herons. +1
Yes, there is a charming waterfall on the north side of the lake, which is a lovely feature to discover.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Blue Heron Boathouse has a grill that offers food like hamburgers and salads. You can also bring your own picnic.
Yes, Stow Lake is a great spot for picnics. There are many benches and grassy areas perfect for enjoying your own food.
The boathouse grill typically serves casual fare such as hamburgers and salads.
While specific menus can vary, they usually offer salads which can be a vegetarian option.
Some Reddit users have mentioned that alcohol is allowed, particularly if you reserve areas like the Chinese Pavilion for events. However, it's always best to check park regulations.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire lake offers beautiful scenery, but consider the Chinese Pavilion, the waterfall, Strawberry Hill summit, and the bridges for stunning shots.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour hues.
Yes, Stow Lake is a great place to photograph birds and other wildlife. Be patient and respectful of their space.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial shoots or drone usage may require permits.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and general shots. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Climbing Strawberry Hill offers a gentle hike with rewarding views, and there are plenty of open spaces for kids to run around. The boathouse also offers casual food options, making it easy to grab a bite. Remember to keep an eye on little ones near the water and be mindful of goose droppings.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers
Hiking up Strawberry Hill provides a bit of exercise and a chance to enjoy panoramic views. It's also a great spot for contemplation or even some light work if you're looking for an inspiring outdoor workspace. The opportunity to observe wildlife adds another layer of interest to a solo visit.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy by the lake, or find a quiet spot on Strawberry Hill for a more secluded experience. The gentle sounds of nature and the beautiful scenery create a perfect setting for connection and relaxation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Strawberry Hill
Climbing Strawberry Hill offers a fantastic opportunity for panoramic views of Golden Gate Park and even glimpses of the San Francisco skyline on a clear day. The trails are generally well-maintained, though they can be a bit steep in places, making it a moderate hike. It's a popular spot for those seeking a bit of elevation and a different perspective of the park.
Many visitors find Strawberry Hill to be one of their favorite spots in the park for its tranquility and scenic beauty. It's a great place to pause, enjoy the surroundings, and perhaps even find a quiet spot for writing or contemplation.
Boating on Stow Lake
The rental prices are quite reasonable, with rowboats typically costing around $26 per hour and pedal boats around $32.50 per hour. This makes it an accessible activity for most visitors looking for some fun on the water. The boathouse also offers a chance to get up close to the lake's diverse birdlife, including ducks and the famous Great Blue Herons.
+1Boating on Stow Lake is often described as a peaceful and enjoyable experience, perfect for a date or a family outing. It allows you to see the lake from a different vantage point, appreciating the reflections on the water and the lush greenery surrounding it.
Wildlife Encounters at Stow Lake
A particular highlight for many visitors is the presence of Great Blue Herons, especially during their nesting season. These majestic birds can be spotted in the trees on the islands, and sometimes special observing opportunities with spotting scopes are available. Turtles are also frequently seen basking on logs or swimming in the water, adding to the diverse ecosystem.
Beyond the birds and turtles, you might also encounter squirrels scampering through the trees and, on occasion, coyotes. The variety of wildlife contributes to the tranquil and natural atmosphere of Stow Lake, offering a chance to connect with nature right in the heart of the city.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit