Lake Merced Loop

San Francisco, California

4.7/5

based on 3 reviews

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Details

Distance

4.53 miles

Elevation Gain

180 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by The Outbound Collective

Lake Merced Loop is a loop trail in the southwestern part of San Francisco. This trail is used for running and walking. You'll see plenty of people getting exercise or taking their dog for a stroll. There are also benches and tables around the loop.

The lake itself is fresh water and is used for racing by competitive rowing programs and for fishing recreationally.

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Features

Running

Hiking

Dog Friendly

Family Friendly

Lake

Scenic

Wildlife

Lake Merced Loop Reviews

Angela Dair

Lake Merced Loop

02/06/23

Good exercise loop. Its relatively flat and there is a water fountain and porto potties in the middle section.

4.0

Dominic Pascucci

Lake Merced Loop

11/06/22

There’s a multi use path/sidewalk that runs the entire perimeter of lake Merced. One can easily spend a day here. Go for a run, walk, or bike ride around the lake. There are multiple parking lots and lots of street parking. Afterwards you can grab a bite to eat at the Harding Park Golf Course. Then you can go for a paddle in the North Lake (just don’t fall in). You’ll need to bring your own boat but it’s free to launch here. Over the last couple years the RV/homeless crowd has grown. They currently fill Lake Merced Blvd from Winston. Everyone seems to keep to themselves so it isn’t really an issue but I still prefer to avoid that section.

5.0

Team

Tyler Drake

Team

Lake Merced Loop

10/06/21

This loop is a great workout in San Francisco. The trail offers up scenic views of the lake to keep you moving through the 4+ miles. There's also a scenic viewpoint that cuts through the loop right below the parking area.

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Lake Merced Loop

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Features

Lake Merced Loop Reviews

Leave No Trace

Nearby

Fort Funston Trail

Mount Davidson

16th Avenue Tiled Steps

San Bruno Mountain

Grand View Park ("Turtle Hill")

Bouldering at Glen Canyon Park

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