John McLaren Park

John McLaren Park, located in southeastern San Francisco, is the city's second-largest park, spanning 312.54 acres. Named after John McLaren, the "grandfather of Golden Gate Park," this expansive green space was established in 1926 and offers a diverse landscape of forests, meadows, and grasslands.

The park is known for its hilly terrain, with elevations reaching up to 525 feet above sea level. This topography provides visitors with sweeping panoramic views of San Francisco, the East Bay, and San Bruno Mountain. The varied landscape supports a rich ecosystem, including native plants and wildlife such as raptors, California quail, and even the endangered mission blue butterfly.

McLaren Park features over 7 miles of walking trails, including the popular Philosopher's Way, a 2.7-mile loop that winds through the park's natural areas. These trails offer opportunities for hiking, jogging, and nature observation, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the park's wild and natural ambiance.

The park's terrain is notably steep, with only 19% of its area consisting of gentle slopes (0-10% grade). Half of the park has slopes between 10-25% grade, while more than one-third of the total area has slopes exceeding 25% grade. This unique topography contributes to the park's character and provides a challenging environment for outdoor enthusiasts.

McLaren Park serves as a vital community resource, bordered by several San Francisco neighborhoods including Excelsior, Crocker-Amazon, Visitacion Valley, Portola, and University Mound. It offers a range of recreational facilities and natural spaces that cater to diverse interests and age groups, making it a popular destination for local residents and visitors alike.