Blue Heron Lake

Golden Gate Park has a lot of lakes. It has this one which was man made and is one of the oldest. Blue Heron Lake is known for the hill and waterfalls among other stuff found here. A pagoda is on the east side of this. The island with the hill is one of the most popular points to get views.

A lot to do around. It's good for boating or hiking. This is a man made lake. Hard to believe. On the east of the island is the Chinese Pavilion. It can be rented out. Popular for picnics. A popular place on the lake is the boathouse. It's been here since 1893 and is the launching pad for boats to go around the lake. The boats include pedal boats and rowboats. In the middle of the lake is an island. This is known for the good views. Get here by either of the two bridges. Strawberry Hill is on top. Good climb. This takes awhile but it's worth going to it seems.

Certainly it's not all natural to be honest. It's a man made lake, so it's harder to appreciate the beauty or whatever it happens to be for sure. This lake may get another name before long but it takes it from the scenery for others to think about though.

Beautiful lake in the middle of Golden Gate Park. It is pretty hidden and a lot of people don't know about it, but I highly recommend it! You can ride a small boat on the lake, have a picnic or relaxing time alone, or see the beautiful Pavilion located on the tiny island in the lake.

Quick take: boating and trails

Stow Lake is a beautiful lake inside GGP. We walked the perimeter and the trails that go through this area.

Most of the lake is fenced off temporarily for tree removal and maintenance. We didn't see any pedal boats or row boats on the water today. Not sure if the boathouse area was open or closed.

We will be back for the boats next time.

I absolutely love this place. If I lived here, I would probably come here for a and walk every day.

Parking is free.

They have a nice walkway all around the lake.

Very family friendly.

You can rent a row boat or a paddle boat.

And if it's warm out, you may see some turtles!

This is a Magnificent Artificial Lake located in the middle of Golden Gate Park.

You should make a point of visiting when you are in Golden Gate Park. There are so many beautiful places to see.

If you are interested, they rent out little peddle boats. It's really pretty, especially on a warm day.

There is a lot to like about Stow Lake!!

Located in Golden Gate Park, this Great Lake surrounds Strawberry Hill. There are 2 bridges that cross over the lake leading to Strawberry Hill.

The street surrounding the lake is a one way street with parking pretty much on both sides. You can rent paddle boats from the Boathouse when it's open. Or you can just walk around the lake on the path, or sit at one of the many benches around the lake, which many people do.

Crossing over the lake you can hike up Strawberry Hill, or check out the Chinese Pavilion or the fantastic waterfall there. There are ducks and geese aplenty here also.

It's about 1 mile to walk around the lake, nice and short, I always enjoy coming here!!

I have been coming to Stow Lake since I was a kid. We use to ride our bikes to the top of the mountain and ride back down. It was a blast. The place has changed a little since I was a kid but still a very nice place to walk and of course people watch.

It is always clean and well kept. My parents and their friends often come to walk around the lake to. It is a great place for the family.

waited over an hour when they said 30 minute wait. the line is messy and unsure how they keep people on time

A great place to relax in the middle of the city and to get away from the city without getting away.

You can decompress just by watching the squirrels, the ducks, turtles and all kinds of wildlife. You can also get your exercise by walking around the lake or walk up Strawberry Hill. It's an easy walk with beautiful views.

There's a concession stand by the boathouse and you can also rent paddle and tie boats. I don't recommend you going in the lake though.

It's also centrally located inside Golden Gate Park as it's close to a lot of attractions. Best of all, the parking is free.

Stow Lake is a gem in the city with a plethora of wildlife to see. In the spring, you can often spot some baby Canadian geese or ducklings. I have occasionally spotted a coyote.

Attractions: The Chinese Pavilion is a lovely spot for photos. I often see people renting out the paddle boats for dates around Stow Lake. It's also a nice place to picnic or hike.