Get to Know the Hidden Away Fort Funston Coastal Park

Everyone loves Golden Gate Park and Dolores Park, but did you know San Francisco has over 220 parks and open spaces? Curbed SF wants to bring fame and glory to some of the smaller, lesser-known parks, and we're doing so with our series Park Life. Each week we'll spotlight a different San Francisco park or open space, and bring you all the details you need to plan a visit.

Located on the coastal shore of San Francisco lies one of its most beautiful treasures: Fort Funston, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Founded by the federal government in 1900 as the Lake Merced Military Reservation, it was renamed in 1917 after General Frederick Funston. Deemed obsolete after World War II, the installation was decommissioned and transferred to the National Park Service in 1963 where it has become a beloved locale ever since. Where it's located: In the southwestern most corner of San Francisco along the ocean's edge. The main entry is located just off Skyline Boulevard.

What it features: The main attraction of the park are the many trails and rugged coastal conditions that provide outdoor recreation with some of the most classic scenery the California coast is known for. Man-made features include several historic structures from its days as a military defense installation and a visitor center.

How to get there: Car is the preferable method to get to the park, but there is one bus that will get you close: the 18 line down Skyline Boulevard.

Dogs allowed?: Dogs are allowed, and this is also the only park in the GGNRA that allows off-leash.

Don't miss: A chance to watch the hang gliders air it out over the coastal bluffs. With an H-3 rating for intermediate-to-advanced gliders you are sure to catch some experienced gliders showing off when the conditions are right. The most popular times are March and October.
·Fort Funston [GGNRC]
·Fort Funston [National Park Service]