Huntington Falls (Hidden Gem In Golden Gate Park)

Introduction to Huntington Falls

Huntington Falls is one of the two stunning man-made waterfalls you can find on your trip to Golden Gate Park. The 1,017-hectare urban park is home to the tranquil Japanese Tea Gardens, the oldest glass and wood Victorian greenhouse in the western hemisphere, and the world-renowned California Academy of Sciences.

Though these falls are artificially constructed, you’ll find that with the surrounding vegetation growth and excellent year-round maintenance of it, it’s almost as if they have been there all along. Huntington Falls, in particular, is a real gem to find in the middle of the city.

History of Huntington Falls

Close-up view of Huntington Falls in Golden Gate Park, SF

The 110-foot-tall waterfall project was kickstarted after the former Park's Superintendent, John McLaren, initiated a plan to incorporate artificial waterways and lakes and into the once-sandy grounds. Through a series of generous donations processed by one of the four railroad barons at that time, Collins P. Huntington, the waterfall projects edged toward completion.

McLauren first thought of the idea to feature artificial waterfalls in Golden Gate Park when he went on an afternoon hike in the Sierras with John Muir, a friend of his. Muir was a mountaineer, wildlife advocate, and the man who went down in history as the "Father of the National Parks".

Despite receiving some pushback from his proposal, Huntington Falls went on to become his first and widely successful project to be implemented. Its name was given in honor of one of the railroad barons, Collins Huntington, for his generous donation of $25,000 to the project.

As initial plans to construct the falls stalled, it was not until 1984 that the project came to fruition under the governance of then-Mayor, Dianne Feinstein.

Huntington Falls postcard, 1991

Located right in the center of the park, Huntington Falls was carefully planned and constructed on Strawberry Hills Island. The unique name for this region was derived from the abundance of the natural vegetation of wild strawberries discovered in the area. The Sweeney Observatory, which was primarily used as a vista point, now rests in ruins at the 400-foot summit of the Strawberry Hills. The observatory was built in 1891 using grant money given by an affluent landowner named Thomas Sweeney.

The Falls

While the falls themselves are not the roaring, gargantuan ones you'd expect from places like Niagara or Yellowstone, they cascade down into Strawberry Hill into Stow Lake in a subdued yet beautifully tiered way.

Huntington Falls in Golden Gate Park, SF

You'll be able to get plenty of photo ops from the fall's base by meandering through the rock path installed, and along the adjacent trail.

Alternatively, if you've got the strength, and determination to get a good shot for the Gram', climb up the adjacent stairs pasted the sculpted rocks to the viewing area right at the top of the falls.

There, you’ll be able to take in the splendid view of Huntington Falls from above. Wildlife enthusiasts—keep a lookout for different bird species found in the park as well!

On any given day, you may see folks at Hungtington Falls posing for birthday or graduation shots. The park itself also serves as a popular place for joggers, students, or workers looking to decompress and take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Visitors relaxing on the lush lawns of Golden Gate Park, SF | Flickr

Is Parking Available at Golden Gate Park?

Yes, visitors will be able to enjoy free parking at the site.

Attractions in the Area

Spreckels Temple of Music/ Bandshell, an open-air plaza in Golden Gate Park , SF

Bes sure to drop by the Spreckels Temple of Music while you’re there! Constructed in 1900, the structure sits stunningly in the Golden Gate Park. It was a gift to San Francisco from sugar magnate Clause Spreckels and is one of the largest bandshells in all of North America.

If you’re looking for a place to get incredible views of Bay Area, head over to Christmas Tree Point, a lookout spot located on the world-famous Twin Peaks.

For the adventurous at heart, why not explore San Francisco with through of these activities?

Table of Contents
History
The Falls
Parking
Attractions in the Area