Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Huntington Falls
Huntington Falls is a man-made waterfall located in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, California. It flows down Strawberry Hill into Stow Lake, creating a picturesque and serene setting within the park. The waterfall is part of a landscaped area designed to enhance the park's natural beauty.
The Setting
Huntington Falls sits at 344 feet within Golden Gate Park, in the coastal lowlands of California.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Huntington Falls is a short and easy walk around Stow Lake. Visitors can follow the loop trail around the lake and take a short incline up Strawberry Hill to view the waterfall. The path is well-maintained and suitable for most visitors.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Huntington Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Huntington Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Huntington Falls can be visited year-round, but it is particularly beautiful in the spring when the surrounding vegetation is lush and vibrant.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Stay on designated paths and avoid climbing on rocks near the waterfall. Be cautious of slippery surfaces, especially after rain.
Current Water Conditions
2 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 11 years of record
1.08 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near San Francisco hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Huntington Falls is located in Golden Gate Park, near Stow Lake. Visitors can access the area by entering the park from major roads such as John F. Kennedy Drive or Martin Luther King Jr. Drive. The waterfall is situated on Strawberry Hill, which is accessible via walking paths around Stow Lake.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near Stow Lake, with both free and paid options. However, parking can be limited during weekends and peak hours.
Elevation
344 feet above sea level
Coordinates
37.768541° N, -122.474138° W
Land Management
Managed by CITY
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery. Consider renting a paddleboat on Stow Lake for a unique perspective of the waterfall.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Cow Hollow Inn and Suites
Riu Plaza Fisherman's Wharf
Holiday Inn San Francisco - Golden Gateway newly renovated with No Resort Fee
Hilton San Francisco Financial District
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Rob Hill Group Campground
2.0 miles away · 4 sites
Overview As San Francisco's only group campground, Rob Hill offers a national park camping experience just minutes from the city. Here you will have access to all of the recreational opportunities the Presidio of San Francisco has to offer, including hiking and biking trails, scenic overlooks, picnic sites, beaches, a golf course, and so much more. The campground's spacious campsites make it a perfect choice for groups of all kinds, including multi-family gatherings, school field trips, and scout
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
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Near Eldridge in Sonoma County, this 70-degree thermal spring flows at just 261 feet elevation with exceptional roadside access...
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near San Francisco, California on SoakingSprings.
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Japanese Tea Garden, the de Young Museum, and the San Francisco Botanical Garden, all located within Golden Gate Park.
Wildlife
Visitors may see ducks, geese, turtles, and various bird species around Stow Lake.
Cities near Huntington Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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