McLaren Park: 13 best things to do at the sprawling SF park

Rodney Pruitt and Gaku Shiroma begin their walk along Philosopher's Way Trail in McLaren Park in San Francisco, Calif., on Wednesday, May 22, 2013.

Can 313 acres really be a "hidden" gem? While millions flock to Golden Gate Park, McLaren Park, San Francisco's second largest park (third if you count the federal land that is the Presidio) has more than seven miles of walking trails, an amphitheater, golf course, lake and dozens of recreational facilities that hide in plain sight in the southeastern corner of the city.

Named for John McLaren, the city's first superintendent of parks and the "grandfather" of Golden Gate Park, McLaren Park's expansive natural areas, native plants and wildlife, including the endangered mission blue butterfly, raptors and California quail, act as an apt — yet underrated — ode to the man who dedicated his life's work to developing the city's wild spaces. With an outdated reputation for being dangerous, McLaren Park flies under the radar, except with the residents of the Excelsior and Visitacion Valley neighborhoods that flank the expansive green space and who have long enjoyed its wide range of activities, bountiful rolling hills, unspoiled nature and quintessential SF culture. And after several thoughtful, multi-million dollar renovations, there's even more to enjoy at San Francisco's less famous but very impressive park.

Day hikers explore the view from Philosopher's Way, a 2.7 mile loop trail in McLaren Park in San Francisco, Calif.

It's said Philosopher's Way may be the only trail in the country designed specifically with philosophy in mind. The 2.7-mile loop trail draws inspiration from similar walks in Japan and Toronto where installations encourage visitors to contemplate their surroundings and life's great questions. Fourteen etched marble quotations and accompanying photos and history act as "musing stations" along the gentle trail.

Find it: Philosopher's Way, 1229-1399 Mansell St., San Francisco, CA 94134; 650-516-7657

This Greek-style amphitheater with a capacity of 1,200 opened in 1971; in 2005 it was named for the Grateful Dead star who grew up in the Excelsior District. Following a recent $1.5 million renovation, the amphitheater has returned with free concerts, including an annual Jerry Day celebration, plays and other events.

Find it: Jerry Garcia Amphitheater, near 40 John F Shelly Drive, San Francisco, CA 94134; 415-831-5500

A paved path and dozens of picnic areas surround this shallow, man-made lake that ducks and turtles now call home. It makes for a scenic picnic spot and great place to take kids for the nearby recently renovated Louis Sutter Playground. Dogs are also welcome here, as is your team spirit: two tennis courts, a full basketball court, a soccer pitch and two baseball fields are close by.

Find it: McNab Lake, near 599 Yale St., San Francisco, CA 94134

A ropes challenge course in San Francisco's John McLaren Park.

Need a team building activity that doesn't include happy hour? McLaren Park is home to San Francisco's first and only ropes course on city property. This traditional course features nine aerial challenges (which SFGATE editor Tessa McLean braved despite her fear of heights) and provides opportunities for solo adventurers and teams to develop trust and confidence among the treetops. All types of organizations, including schools, non-profits, government organizations and corporate groups, are welcome to book an adventure here. Minimum age requirement is 12 years old; groups must have a minimum of six people and a maximum of 32.

Find it: OBCA Ropes Course, in McLaren Park, San Francisco, CA 94134; 415-933-6222

This nine-hole course can be played as 18 holes from different tee locations and is considered a hidden gem for its dynamic, challenging layout and Bay vistas.

Find it: Gleneagles Golf Course, 2100 Sunnydale Ave., San Francisco, CA 94134; 415-587-2425

San Francisco loves its labyrinths. And McLaren Park's highest point has a beautiful, quirky one that you can meander through while taking in sweeping views of the city skyline and San Bruno mountains.

Find it: John F Shelley Drive, San Francisco, CA 94134

Another reason adventurers love McLaren Park is because it's home to San Francisco's first BMX and mountain biking park. Good for both beginners and more experienced riders, the park includes youth BMX and mountain biking areas as well as a multi-use plaza and lawn.

Find it: McLaren Bike Park, 2050 Sunnydale Ave., San Francisco, CA 94134

McLaren Park's playgrounds are experiencing a renaissance thanks to recent renovations. The wooden structure at the Redwood Grove Playground is a kid's paradise — and may lure adults too, thanks to its views from atop the jungle gym.

Find it: McLaren Park Playground & Group Picnic Area, near 200 John F. Shelley Drive, San Francisco, CA 94134

More of a sports complex than a playground, the Crocker Amazon Playground caters to team sports year-round. With soccer, baseball and softball fields, tennis and pickleball courts, basketball and bocce courts and a clubhouse, all you need to do is find your league.

Find it: Crocker Amazon Playground; 799 Moscow St., San Francisco, CA 94112; 415-337-4708

Rarely is it swimming weather in San Francisco thanks to the fog, but that's no concern at this 10,000-square-foot indoor pool. Originally built in 1957 but redone in 2008, the complex offers programs for all ages and levels, including recreational swim, swim classes, water aerobics and lap swims. Check the pool's website for the most updated schedule and offerings.

Find it: Coffman Pool, 1700 Visitacion Ave., San Francisco, CA 94134; 415-337-9085

A man walks with his dogs at Mclaren Park on April 16, 2018, in San Francisco, Calif.

There are few places more dog friendly than McLaren Park in San Francisco. There are two off-leash dog parks, including a massive one that encompasses almost the entire park surrounding the Jerry Garcia Amphitheater. Note: Dogs must be kept on leash in the amphitheater during events and shows.

Find it: McLaren Shelley Dog Play Area, John F Shelley Drive and Cambridge Street, San Francisco, CA 94134 and McLaren Park Geneva Dog Play Area, Geneva and Brooksdale, San Francisco, CA 94134

The park has a community garden that offers plots for residents to grow their own fruits and vegetables. The garden is open to the public and provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Find it: McLaren Park Community Garden; 599-547 Leland Ave, San Francisco, CA 94134

Stewarded by San Francisco Water Power Sewer and PODER, a non-profit dedicated to supporting immigrant families in San Francisco, Hummingbird Farm sits on six acres of formerly underutilized land. Today it's a community farm that provides affordable produce to the local neighborhood, while also acting as a space to learn about conservation and sustainable farming methods.

Find it: Hummingbird Farm, 1669 Geneva Ave., San Francisco, CA 94112; 415-431-4210

This story was edited by Hearst Newspapers Managing Editor Kristina Moy; you can contact her at [email protected].