The Top 4 Lakes in Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Looking to visit the best lakes in Golden Gate National Recreation Area? After all, there’s nothing better than the serenity of the lakeshore — or a quick dip when the weather’s warm. So, browse our list of Golden Gate National Recreation Area’s top lakes below as recommended by the komoot community, and experience more on your next adventure!
Last updated: November 20, 2025
Lake Merced
Highlight • Lake
Lake Merced, a large freshwater lake in San Francisco's southwestern corner, is the heart of a 614-acre park that is popular with boaters, hikers, bicyclists, and golfers on the extended courses around the lakes. sfrecpark.org/destination/lake-merced-park
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Mountain Lake Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Mountain Lake Trail runs along the long southern edge of the Presidio Park (now part of the Golden Gate Recreation Area).
It continues west toward Mountain Lake, the biggest and …
It continues west toward Mountain Lake, the biggest and …
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Rodeo Beach and Lagoon
Highlight (Segment) • Beach
Wide sandy Pacific beach with a popular surf break below the rocky cliffs at the north end
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Letterman Park Pond ⛲
Highlight • Lake
The lower trail is open to biking and a great way to swing through directly to the car-free gate that exits at the traffic lights to the Palace of Fine …
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