San Francisco is a vibrant city with an abundance of outdoor activities to enjoy and landmarks to appreciate. However, for those seeking refuge in a nature-filled oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area, look no further than Miraloma.
There’s little questioning San Francisco’s outdoor bona fides: The Presidio, Golden Gate Park, and to the north just across its famous namesake bridge, the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.
But what about the areas and neighborhoods in the heart of greater San Francisco? Where can you find those in-city getaways with the promise of peace and calm, where you can delight in solitude and nature without losing sight of all that the Bay Area has to offer?
While a few candidates do emerge — Noe Valley and Bernal Heights among them — there is only one Miraloma.
Naturally insulated from its immediate neighbors, Miraloma is nestled between the expansive green space of Glen Canyon Park to the east and Mount Davidson to the west. One of the highest elevations in the city, the community dates back to the 1920s and serves as a quiet, quaint lookout onto the whole of San Francisco.
From its gently curving streets, beautifully diverse architecture, and abundance of green spaces, it’s easy to recognize Miraloma’s timeless allure.
And for those searching for outdoor adventures, there’s no better place to start than Miraloma’s two major parks.
Mount Davidson
Located within Miraloma’s borders, the 40-acre Mt. Davidson is a varied landscape of forest, grassland, and coastal scrub.
At an elevation of over 900 feet, this gorgeous setting has the distinction of being the highest point in San Francisco. Trails in the park provide stunning vistas and Instagram-worthy photo opportunities. A trek to the Mt. Davidson Cross is an awe-inspiring journey for the spiritual and non-spiritual alike.
Glen Canyon Park
To the east is Glen Canyon Park. While technically not in Miraloma, the 70-acre Glen Canyon is equivalent to having a communal backyard shared between you and all of your closest neighbors. The park boasts nearly four miles of hiking trails and an incredible array of landscapes, including a creek, wildflower displays, rock formations, and an impressive expanse of greenery and foliage.
More escapes
Further creating a laid-back, tucked-away vibe, Miraloma has a number of pocket parks. Bring the kids to family-friendly Miraloma and Sunnyside Playgrounds or take in the spectacular views, plants, flowers, and birds at the community-managed Melrose Detroit Botanical Garden.
If you love the city but want to embrace the serenity of outdoor life, Miraloma is the best of both worlds.
