Blue Heron Lake, formerly called Stow Lake, is in Golden Gate Park at John F. Kennedy Drive and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. Walk the paths around the water, cross the stone bridges and take a footbridge to Strawberry Hill, where Huntington Falls and a Chinese pavilion await. Herons, geese, turtles and other wildlife live around the lake. For a closer look, rent a pedal boat or rowboat from the boathouse on the north side and circle the island.
Walking around the lake
Blue Heron Lake sits in Golden Gate Park, near the junction of John F. Kennedy Drive and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. It was once called Stow Lake. Walking paths follow the shore, with stone bridges crossing the water and footbridges leading to Strawberry Hill, the island in the middle of the lake.
The route gives you different views of the lake and its tree-lined paths. Herons, geese and turtles are among the wildlife you may spot. Binoculars can help you watch birds from the shore.
Strawberry Hill and Huntington Falls
Cross a footbridge to reach Strawberry Hill, where you can explore paths and look out over the lake. Huntington Falls cascades down the hill, and a Chinese pavilion stands nearby. The hill also has views across the city.
The stone bridges are another part of the walk, with a route under one of them for a view from the water’s edge.
Seeing the lake by boat
The Blue Heron Boathouse is on the north side of the lake, where pedal boats and rowboats are available to rent. From the water, you can circle Strawberry Hill and pass the pavilion and Huntington Falls. Pedal boats take some effort, so allow for a more active outing than a short stroll.
FAQ
Where is Blue Heron Lake?
It is in Golden Gate Park, near John F. Kennedy Drive and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in San Francisco.
What can you see at Blue Heron Lake?
The lake has stone bridges, wildlife and access to Strawberry Hill, where you can see Huntington Falls and a Chinese pavilion.
Can you rent a boat at Blue Heron Lake?
Yes. Pedal boats and rowboats are available from the Blue Heron Boathouse on the north side of the lake.
When is a good time to visit?
Early morning is a good choice for a quieter walk.
