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Lake Merced Park in San Francisco | Map and Routes

Sports Facility · Forest · Tree

4.8 (1958 ratings)

Discover the natural beauty of Lake Merced Park, nestled in the heart of San Francisco. Spanning 608.0 acres, this picturesque park offers a serene ambiance and a wide range of ...

Discover the natural beauty of Lake Merced Park, nestled in the heart of San Francisco. Spanning 608.0 acres, this picturesque park offers a serene ambiance and a wide range of trails, making it an ideal destination for walkers and hikers. With its lush greenery, tranquil waters, and diverse wildlife, Lake Merced Park provides a rejuvenating retreat for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful escape from the bustling city life. Lake Merced Park provides an array of activities for visitors to enjoy, including walking, running, and hiking along its scenic trails. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or an invigorating run, the park's well-maintained paths cater to all fitness levels. San Francisco's mild climate makes it conducive to year-round outdoor activities, allowing walkers and runners to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the park in any season. Embark on a memorable outdoor adventure at Lake Merced Park and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature. Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape, a refreshing workout, or simply a scenic stroll, this park offers the perfect setting for your outdoor pursuits. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the diverse trails and stunning landscapes of Lake Merced Park. For more information about parks and routes, download Pacer Pedometer to discover the best walking and running routes in the area.

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Reviews (53)
Photos (287)

Walking and Running in Lake Merced Park

When it comes to walking and running, Lake Merced Park in San Francisco is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With essential amenities like multiple parking lots, drinking water stations, restrooms, picnic sites, and BBQ areas, the park ensures that visitors have everything they need for a comfortable and ...

When it comes to walking and running, Lake Merced Park in San Francisco is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With essential amenities like multiple parking lots, drinking water stations, restrooms, picnic sites, and BBQ areas, the park ensures that visitors have everything they need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The park also offers sports facilities such as a bike path and a golf course, catering to the needs of both casual walkers and avid runners. Additionally, Lake Merced Park is wheelchair-friendly, making it accessible to all. As you stroll or jog through the park, take in the captivating sights, including the artwork of the Penguin Statue and the historical monuments of Carlos III and Juan Bautista De Anza. Whether you're seeking a serene walking path or a challenging running route, Lake Merced Park has something for everyone, making it the ideal destination for outdoor activity enthusiasts in San Francisco.

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Other Info about Lake Merced Park

Essential Amenities in Lake Merced Park

Picnic Site
BBQ
Drinking water
Wheelchair friendly
Restroom
Parking lot

Lake Merced Park Sport Facilities

Bike path
Golf course

Accessibility in Lake Merced Park

Wheelchair friendly

Things to See in Lake Merced Park

Artwork

Penguin Statue

Monument

Carlos III

Monument

Juan Bautista De Anza

Best Walking Routes in Lake Merced Park

#1 - Lake Merced Park
47
Length: 4.1 milesEst. Time: 1h8m

Lake Merced Park is a 4.1 mile (9,500-step) route located near San Francisco, California, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#2 - Lake Merced Park
4
Length: 4.5 milesEst. Time: 1h55m

Lake Merced Park is a 4.5 mile (10,000-step) route located near San Francisco, California, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

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See All Routes

Reviews of Lake Merced Park

4.8/5
1958 ratings
StavrosJan 3, 2025
5

Fantastic day to walk , cold a bit windy and clear.

SantosJul 9, 2025
5

Cool park , a lot of runners from Daly City

PacerPalNov 15, 2025
5
See All Reviews (53)
See All Reviews (53)

Lake Merced Park Leaderboard

RankingCheck-ins
dleung
845
Michael
101
小小
94
4Enrique
77
5derrick
47
6tpon
35
7Sam E
30
8sky_look_like3bowl
26
9xtrue429
25
10Israel
25
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Nearby Parks
Fort Funston
Robert Pender Park
Rolph Nicol Jr Playground
Pine Lake Park
Broederick Terry Duel Landmark Park
South Sunset Playground
Parkside Square
Sigmund Stern Recreation Grove
Merced Heights Playground

FAQs About Lake Merced Park

Are there facilities or amenities for walkers/runners in Lake Merced Park?

Yes, Lake Merced Park provides several essential amenities for walkers and runners, including multiple parking lots, drinking water stations, restrooms, picnic sites, and wheelchair-friendly paths.

How accessible is Lake Merced Park?

Lake Merced Park is wheelchair-friendly, ensuring accessibility for all individuals who want to walk, run, or engage in sports activities.

What kind of sports can I do in Lake Merced Park?

In Lake Merced Park, you can enjoy various sports activities such as walking, running, biking on the bike paths, and even playing golf on the park's golf course.

What is the best season to walk in Lake Merced Park?

The best season to walk in Lake Merced Park is typically in the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the park is in full bloom.

What are the typical weather conditions to prepare for in Lake Merced Park?

In Lake Merced Park, you should prepare for cool, foggy conditions, especially in the summer, and occasional rain in the winter months. Layered clothing is recommended to adapt to the changing weather.

What kind of wildlife might you encounter in Lake Merced Park?

In Lake Merced Park, you might encounter various bird species such as ducks, geese, and herons. There are also sightings of turtles, raccoons, and occasional sightings of coyotes and deer. It's important to be respectful of the wildlife and maintain a safe distance.

Last updated: Dec 1, 2025

Parks Near Lake Merced Park

Fort Funston
Robert Pender Park
Rolph Nicol Jr Playground
Pine Lake Park
Broederick Terry Duel Landmark Park
South Sunset Playground
Parkside Square
Sigmund Stern Recreation Grove
Merced Heights Playground

Latest Check-ins at Lake Merced Park

dleungDec 1, 2025
Dec 1, 2025Walking
StavrosNov 29, 2025
Nov 29, 2025Walking
MariiaNov 24, 2025
Nov 24, 2025Walking
AnatoliyAug 31, 2025
Aug 31, 2025Walking
bigboii420Nov 17, 2025
Nov 17, 2025Running
bigboii420Nov 7, 2025
Nov 7, 2025Running
PacerPalNov 15, 2025
Nov 15, 2025Walking
PacerGuy_1977Nov 11, 2025
Nov 11, 2025Manual
KojiNov 9, 2025
Nov 9, 2025Running
KojiOct 27, 2025
Oct 27, 2025Running
*Latest check-in only shows the last 10 users. Only public activities are eligible. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.

Total Check-ins at Lake Merced Park

RankingCheck-ins
dleung
845
Michael
101
小小
94
4Enrique
77
5derrick
47
6tpon
35
7Sam E
30
8sky_look_like3bowl
26
9xtrue429
25
10Israel
25
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Best Walking Routes in Lake Merced Park
#1- Lake Merced Park
47
Length: 4.1 milesEst. Time: 1h8m

Lake Merced Park is a 4.1 mile (9,500-step) route located near San Francisco, California, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#2- Lake Merced Park
4
Length: 4.5 milesEst. Time: 1h55m

Lake Merced Park is a 4.5 mile (10,000-step) route located near San Francisco, California, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

Reviews of Lake Merced Park

StavrosJan 3, 2025
5

Fantastic day to walk , cold a bit windy and clear.

SantosJul 9, 2025
5

Cool park , a lot of runners from Daly City

PacerPalNov 15, 2025
5
PacerGuy_1977Nov 11, 2025
5
KojiNov 9, 2025
5
dangermanSep 12, 2025
5
Mickey’sJul 9, 2025
5
NataliaApr 18, 2025
5
Dhf16804Mar 28, 2025
5
HardWorkMar 15, 2025
5
ALNov 24, 2024
5
YohanaOct 1, 2024
5
PacerPalSep 8, 2024
5
bdmusicsfSep 8, 2024
5
LupeAug 21, 2024
5
DaisyJul 24, 2024
5
JuneJun 5, 2024
5
chenFeb 25, 2024
5
jbaure_82Jun 18, 2023
5
daphhhMay 19, 2023
5
PacerPalAug 20, 2022
5
AryanApr 17, 2022
5
hudsondonavinJan 17, 2022
5
-.-Oct 4, 2021
5
PacerPalMar 11, 2021
5
curbside2048Nov 2, 2020
5
NelsonOct 25, 2020
5
EnriqueOct 24, 2020
5
JustinAug 6, 2020
5
TaraJul 1, 2020
5
小小Jun 12, 2020
5
PacerPalJun 6, 2020
5
PacerPalJun 3, 2020
5
PacerPalMay 31, 2020
5
CathyMay 30, 2020
5
derrick May 28, 2020
5
christiandeolucasMay 20, 2020
5
EmilyMay 18, 2020
5
SunnyMay 16, 2020
5
IngridApr 14, 2020
5
KatherineApr 13, 2020
5
carlosApr 5, 2020
5
IsraelMar 31, 2020
5
nmurcarMar 28, 2020
5
PacerPalMar 15, 2020
5
PacerGuy_2000Mar 30, 2022
4
LiliSep 26, 2021
4
小小May 23, 2021
4
bradNov 27, 2020
4
kbjungOct 12, 2020
4
dleungSep 7, 2020
4
pointman1029Jun 25, 2020
4
Sam EOct 18, 2024
1
4.8/5
1958 ratings

Photos of Lake Merced Park

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