Blue Heron Lake — Attraction in San Francisco

Stow Lake is a "series of attractions" that I have reviewed for Golden Gate Park over the years, either by myself or with my family, during frequent visits into San Francisco.

I have visited this small lake on numerous occasions over the years, mostly just to see the place and how it has changed and just out of plain curiosity. I have taken many walks along the lakes trail to appreciate the surrounding area and take in the tranquility of the lake. My favorite hike will always be to Strawberry Hill Island.

Although the lake is small by comparison, it's unique in that it sits in the middle of this iconic park, which a lot of visitors miss unless they have read about it in advance. This spot has always been a favorite spot to San Franciscans.

Stow Lake is touted as being Golden Gate Park's largest body of water and has been a popular spot for strolling, picnicking, and pedaling around in boats, which can be rented at the boathouse.

The lake has provided San Franciscans with an outdoor escape for more than a century. The lake offers hiking and bike trails and is a popular destination for visitors looking to engage in active pursuits in the park.

A lazy afternoon may include a rowboat ride across the waters or picnicking, wildlife viewing, and even ghost hunting are also favorite activities of park visitors.

This lake was named after the Gold Rush era, lawyer William Walter Stow, who was a lobbyist for Southern Pacific back when railroad people had a lot of power.

In 1891, the Sweeney's Observatory was built as an elaborate castle like structure, which was actually a vista point back then. Horse drawn carriages took visitors around the lake and up to the observatory until the great earthquake of 1906.

In 1893, Stow Lake was created and has been a part of Golden Gate Park for more than 11 decades. The lake was created out of sand dunes by imaginative Park Superintendent, John McLaren and is the largest of Golden Gate Park's lakes. Massive holes were dug out of the sand, carloads of clay were wheeled in and windmills were built to draw water from natural wells.

The lake has provided the people of San Francisco with a nearby place to escape from their crowded neighborhoods and homes, and enjoy the outdoors.

A boathouse was built along the north shore of the lake and was designed for leisure boating, as a promenade for horse drawn carriages, and as a reservoir for park irrigation.

Both bridges connect the lake shore trail to Strawberry Hill Island, where it follows the shoreline to the hill's summit, the highest point in Golden Gate Park at more than 400 feet. You can still see the city through the thick groves of trees, but in the 1890s the hill provided sweeping views.

In 1906, the Great San Francisco Earthquake destroyed the Sweeney Observatory.

Today, just as more than 100 years ago, boat rentals allow visitors to enjoy a leisurely day on the water, gliding under the stone bridges and exploring the natural beauty of McLaren's vision come to life.

The more daring visitors of Stow Lake might want to stick around as dusk nears to investigate the legend of the White Lady, who is at the center of a more than 100-year ghost tale.

Free parking is available along Stow Lake Drive. However, keep in mind that no cars are allowed on John F. Kennedy Drive on Saturdays (April to September) or Sundays (year-round) access is only available then from Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.

The Boathouse is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day of the week and ready to provide you with a vessel of your choosing.

There is also an on-site café at the Boathouse, which has coffee, sandwiches, or other snack available.

There are numerous picnic tables and BBQ grills to make your day memorable or bring a sack lunch and sit along one of the trails and enjoy the scenery. The area can also be reserved in advance for birthday parties and other...

Great for dogs. Stow Lake is a picturesque and tranquil gem nestled within Golden Gate Park in San Francisco, California. This enchanting man-made lake, spanning over 10 acres, offers visitors a serene retreat from the city's hustle and bustle, making it a beloved destination for both locals and tourists.

Surrounded by lush greenery and scenic landscapes, Stow Lake is a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers. Paddleboats and rowboats dot the waters, inviting visitors to embark on a leisurely boating adventure while admiring the park's natural beauty and wildlife.

The lake's iconic stone bridges, such as the Roman Bridge and the Rustic Bridge, add a touch of charm to the setting, providing picturesque spots for photography and contemplation. The park's avian residents, including ducks, swans, and herons, further enhance the idyllic ambiance, delighting birdwatchers and nature photographers.

For those seeking a leisurely stroll, the path surrounding Stow Lake offers a relaxing and scenic walk, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the peaceful atmosphere while gazing at the reflections of the park's towering trees on the water's surface.

Stow Lake also holds historical significance, with landmarks like the Chinese Pavilion and the Huntington Falls, paying tribute to the park's cultural heritage and past developments.

In summary, Stow Lake in Golden Gate Park is a timeless and enchanting destination, offering a serene respite amid nature's splendor. Its tranquil waters, scenic landscapes, and historical landmarks make it a cherished sanctuary where visitors can unwind, connect with nature, and create lasting memories in the heart of...

Deep within Golden gate park lies Stow lake and unlike many of it's neighbors, there is no entrance fee. You can go to the boathouse which rents out boats like paddle boats. Most of the time on weekdays, this place is really empty and have a few people walking/jogging around. When you get into the island there are few ways you can go. You can either climb uphill to the top of strawberry hill which has picnic benches and you have views of the city and the ocean. If you stay on the bottom, it is a circle around the interior of the island. If you enter through the island through the north entrance and take a left you will come across the waterfall. Sometimes it is on but sometimes it is not. Really depends on the day and time? After a few feet later you will come across a beautiful Chinese inspired gazebo structure where you can sit around and look at the lake. A minute or two after you will reach a stone bridge that's reminisce of England. This place does get foggy but it makes for great pictures! Great place to spend a day. There are ducks, raccoons, squirrels and chipmunks running around and you might join them because this place is really a great place to unwind. Please do not take off your clothes to fit in with...