Golden Gate Park to the Great Highway

We will start our walk at Haight and Stanyan at the eastern entrance of Golden Gate Park, right at the border of the historic Haight-Ashbury neighborhood. From there, we’ll journey west through the park, enjoying its lush landscapes before reaching the newly transformed Great Highway Park at Ocean Beach. The course is likely to change a bit as I explore optional routes but below is a general outline.

Route Overview the Great Highway (Approx. 3.5 miles / 4 km) one way.

1. Enter Golden Gate Park at Stanyan and Haight, following John F. Kennedy Drive westward.
   • Pass by Alvord Lake, one of the park’s historic water features.
2. Walk through the park’s scenic heart:
   • At about 0.5 miles in, you’ll pass the Conservatory of Flowers, a beautiful Victorian greenhouse.
   • Continue west toward the Music Concourse, home to the de Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences.
   • Stroll past Lindley Meadow and Marx Meadow, both great picnic spots.
3. Approach the western edge of Golden Gate Park (about 3.5 miles from your start).
   • Walk past North Lake and South Lake, small but tranquil spots.
   • You’ll reach Ocean Beach as you exit the park at Lincoln Way & Great Highway.
4. Arrive at the new Great Highway Park!!
   • The park transforms a once car-dominated road into a pedestrian and cyclist-friendly space.
   • Walk along the ocean, explore new seating areas, art installations, and community gathering spaces.
   Enjoy the sounds of the waves and sweeping views of the Pacific.
   How far we walk along the new Great Highway park will be determined by our group. But I anticipate exploring the many new features and art exhibits.

Estimated Walk Time:
• 4 to 5 hours at a leisurely pace.
• Add time if we plan to stop at museums, gardens, or scenic spots.

This walk blends history, nature, and urban transformation, making it a great way to experience both Golden Gate Park’s green oasis and the newly reclaimed coastal space at the Great Highway. There are many restaurants and drinking establishments to explore once we get to the Great Highway. Some folks may choose to take public transportation back at their own timing. Some may enjoy the walk back. All in all round trip could be in the 8 or 9 mile range.
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