An incredible view of the entire Bay Area. It's quiet and not over crowded. This makes it easy to get the perfect shoots of San Francisco! read more

Tank Hill - The view from the top of Tank Hill! - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Spectacular view of ocean, Golden Gate Bridge, and downtown. It's about 40 minutes walking from Golden Gate Park (8th Ave entrance from Fulton street. It has less tourists and much quieter than twin peaks. But offers almost same views. Of course, you can go to twin peaks from here. Just take about another 20 minutes. read more

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There can never be too many vista points in San Francisco, and I guess that's the reality as I keep discovering more panorama perspectives. Some of them include Potrero Hill, Corona Heights, Bernal Heights, Dolores Park, Mount Davidson, Tom & Jerry's House, Billy Goat Hill, Walter Haas Playground, Sunset Reservoir... I could go on. The most famous is Twin Peaks, and nearby is this tiny park perched on a large rock outcropping. I only found it when I was walking out of Mount Sutro onto busy Clarendon Avenue. There was first a rickety flight of stairs followed by a short dirt path. Voila! I was in front of a 227-degree view of the city. It's still a wondrous sight. RELATED - Exploring the Castro? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2HrpFPC read more

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Went here today and maybe twice now. I can't get here on my own. It's near Mt. Sutro, but it's a bit secluded. Spectacular view of the city. Fun to take adventure and we went on a big tour Mt. Sutro and Corona Heights. read more

Tank Hill - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

I have only been up Tank Hill twice. We have some friends who live a block away. With an array of interesting friends, they are engaging hosts. After a meal, they invite their guests for a little hike. It takes only a few minutes to climb up. If you were able to quantify the thrill of the vista relative to the exertion needed to reach the vantage point, this would rate very well. I recommend Grand View Park as well. Everyone heads to Twin Peaks. I would not disparage it. If you want a less crowded, simpler hill from which to enjoy a view of San Francisco, this should be your destination. It is not difficult to find and it is well worth the fifteen minutes out of your way if you are anywhere in the vicinity. read more

Hands down one of the best views of San Francisco (and it only takes a few dozen steps to get there!). Parking is free and residential, and the stairs up to the top have been well maintained. Sit on one of the rocks at the top and take in the unbelievable views of the Pacific, the Golden Gate, and the downtown skyline as birds chirp around you. read more

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Tank Hill is a gem and yes, it has a swing. It's a local spot, so you will come across many residents just doing their walk around the neighborhood. Best parts: street parking is right outside the entrance, it's not even a hike to get to the spot, and then bam-- 360 panoramic view of the whole place; it's a winner. My favorite is that there is flat ground to sit with friends and just relax, or a bench to each a sandwich lol, or a swing to have a lil fun. Go to Mount Sutro for a nice hike after this spot! Tip: * it's cold ofc bc it's sf * great alternative to Twin Peaks * in May, the sun rises pretty early at like 5:30 so make sure to get there earlier than 5am if you want to see the full thing in the summertime * Mount Sutro is a nice hike to do after this spot * park on the street right outside the entrance read more

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Peering out onto the vast expanse of San Francisco - a myriad of pastels steadfast against the wavering fog - Tank Hill has always been my spot. I used to make the climb up here regularly in the morning. My music trickling out of my headphones as the bustling San Francisco wind declared it's presence. Tank Hill is a San Francisco wonder. Unassuming, majestic, and perfect for those moments where you need pure genuine perspective in your life. Trust. read more

The views here are stellar, you can see the Interior Greenbelt forest, Golden Gate Bridge and Bonita Lighthouse, the North Part of the City, Downtown, the Mission, Bernal Hill, and the East Bay. I love going places for views and it's less less crowded here than Twin Peaks. Tank Hill by itself is not much of a hike but I added it to my hiking list because I go there whenever I'm hiking at nearby Mt. Sutro or Twin Peaks, or sometimes I go here then hike down to cute Cole Valley for a coffee. read more

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Not sure how many total swings/pretty views there are in SF, but this was the final one that my sister had found. Out of the three, this is probably the one that is the least exciting; however, the view of SF is definitely memorable once you reach the "top." Tank Hill is located in a residential area, so there are quite a number of parking spots on the sloping street - so interesting to see a public park right next to the many homes of the residents. We went to Tank Hill twice - one at night and one during the day; it's definitely too dark to see where you are walking if you aren't familiar with the area, so I wouldn't recommend coming to Tank Hill too late. A lot of the locals use Tank Hill as their gym/source of exercise - definitely not as popular of a place as the other parks. Walk up the steps and you're immediately taken to a hill that overlooks the view of SF. It's pretty amazing and, like another reviewer mentioned, you get a 360 view of SF. But what's even more special is the addition of a park bench that was placed by a resident in dedication to his wife, if I remember correctly. The shiny green bench is situated at the perfect spot, allowing for whoever is on that bench to sit and enjoy the view of the city. Because the park is still not too well-known, hopefully you won't get interrupted by too many people eager to sit on that bench. If you actually turn to the right after coming up the steps, you'll see a flat, wooded area. You can't really see much of the view, and if you turn away from the city, you see the woodsy area with green trees and branches. But what's smack in the middle of that flat area? A swing! I don't think we were prepared for the discovery of the swing - seems like it's a pretty new addition to the park, but it's pretty cool to sit on it. If you are able to pump high enough, you can see a bit of the SF city view. And from the top, you're even able to get a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge, the water, and the many, many houses and buildings that SF is known for. We ended up not visiting Twin Peaks this time and I definitely did not regret it! tl;dr - A not-so well known park located in SF with a cute bench and a swing! Hopefully foot traffic will still stay low so everything stays in pristine condition. Definitely give this place a visit if you're in the area and, like my sister (okay - and me), are a fan of very Instagram-able type spots. read more

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The park is located in private neighborhood. Don't let your kids go up there by themselves if you bring them up to the top, don't let them run around. There's not safety rails very dangerous. The park is located near Market St and UCSF hospital. I was curious and I went to this park to take a look. read more

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Ssshh! Don't tell anyone but Tank Hill has remarkable views of San Francisco! Yes, you heard me correctly! The views of SF are incredible, especially on a beautiful day because you can see the highest building in SF so clearly (without the fog in the way)! This panoramic view of SF is sure to WOW you away because I sure was! This is a perfect place if you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of SF. It's definitely quiet and peaceful. Do you need an alternative other than Twin Peaks? Well, look no further because this beauty is everything you need to see. Yup, another one of my SF Urban Hikes led me to this awesome hidden gem and honestly, I am so happy I found it. It's nicely nestled in a non-touristy residential area, so it's totally easy to miss. Don't look for any signs because there aren't any. How to find this hidden gem: Drive to Belgrave Avenue. Street parking is available. Walk to the eastern end of Belgrave and you'll find a slightly hidden staircase on your left that will wind its way up Tank Hill. Things to bring: * A jacket-Well, come on now! It does get chilly in SF, right? * A lunch * Some great company * Last but not least don't forget your camera-Duh! So grab a friend, pack you a lovely lunch and take a nice hike up to Tank Hill to enjoy amazing company, a delicious meal, and a lovely epic view that spans from the Bay Bridge all the way to Golden Gate Bridge. This is a place you should not miss. Plus, it's FREE! Enjoy! read more

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Swing was cut down, I just put a little branch thru the loop! Five stars for the view, freeeezing cold and extremely windy though! read more

Tank Hill - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

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A must visit for their wonderful view of the city. VIEW: From de Young Museum in the west to downtown to Potrero Hill. Best view of Castro and Mission. GET THERE: Drive to Belgrave Avenue and street park. Walk to the eastern end of Belgrave Ave where it dead ends to a hill with trees. You will find a slightly hidden trail on the left side of the dead end road. The climb is very short, so no need of hiking boots. TIP: Bring a camera and a jacket (gets very cold up there). OTHERS: If you like this view, also try Corona Heights (http://www.yelp.com/biz/tGCFC0PTjLbU5m7Euw2NJg) and tourist congested Twin Peaks (http://www.yelp.com/biz/WV2fVK6OJfzn2BkRGpbP7A). read more

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Have always come up to Twin Peaks via the southern side of it, never having come here to Tank Hill by way of Ashbury Heights until the other day, while on a hike. Group of about 40 or so who began at Civic Center and like the urban version of trekking, like myself. Simply amazing views, crisp cool shade, eye candy 360. One of a myriad secrets of stunning San Francisco. read more

Tank Hill - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

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This is a small park named for the water tank buried in the hilltop. It's a short walk to the rocky ledges or grassy slope where, on a clear day, you can enjoy unimpeded views from Upper Market and the Castro all the way to the east bay. Small kids will find the adventure in it. Others will enjoy hanging around and just enjoying the view (bring a blanket). My daughter's favorite visit here was during a howling rainstorm; the park was transformed into a surreal scene, with rain gusting through the swaying trees. Very cool! It's a great alternative to Twin Peaks, if you're not up for sitting in a long line of cars so that you can park and join a long line of people and then follow a long caravan of cars back down the hill. Plus, it's close to Corona Heights Park, which you dog will love you for visiting! read more

Tank Hill - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Incredible view, best for sunrise and sunset. Beware of wind and crowds on nice warm days. read more

Tank Hill - eddie-hernandez.com San Francisco Headshots - Bay Area Branding / Lifestyle Photographer; Dating Coach, Online Dating Photographer - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

No doubt, one of the best views of the city. The actual "park" is so small that it is often not listed anywhere for people to find when researching SF. I was always curious as to the history of this site--so I found the following from a SFGate article on urban outings: By Gail Todd Published 4:00 am, Thursday, October 25, 2007 Tank Hill "Dazzling views of San Francisco, dozens of native plant species, plus hawks and endangered butterflies make this little-known but centrally located destination well worth the climb to the top. Rich in history, Tank Hill is named for the Clarendon Heights water tank built in 1894 to store drinking water pumped from Laguna Honda. After the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, eucalyptus trees were planted around the tank to hide it from feared Japanese airplane attacks. When a larger, covered reservoir was built nearby, the tank became unnecessary, and in 1957 the city removed it. In 1977, a concerned community persuaded the city to buy the hill from private developers for $650,000 as part of the city's new Open Space Program. This spot is a 650-foot-high minipark that offers what many consider to be the most spectacular view of San Francisco of any hilltop park. So small that many maps of San Francisco leave Tank Hill out entirely, this spot provides a panorama that sweeps from the Golden Gate Bridge to Bayview Hill. Access is from the east end of Belgrave Avenue off Stanyan Street or via a small staircase on Twin Peaks Boulevard near Crown Terrace." So, there you have it--another interesting tidbit about our beautiful city. Be careful up there as it can be a tad precarious. read more

Tank Hill - Our beautiful city. - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

I love this not-so-secret-but-I-hope-it's-still-secret spot! It's so peaceful & calming. You can bring a book with you & read! I love to come here to clear my mind too. When I wanna get away from the usual Twin Peaks, I come here! There's also a cute bench to overlook the beautiful scenery. It overlooks the Golden Gate Bridge & Presidio! Parking is limited. Wear comfortable shoes! This place, I love a lot. A wonderful hidden gem! Now, go seek! read more

Tank Hill - Beautiful!!! - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

Tank Hill is one of those secret urban spots like Billy Goat Hill, Turtle Hill, etc. Like those, Tank Hill typically has no competition compared to the line of cars and buses on their way to Twin Peaks, but the view is just as gorgeous, if not better, at Tank Hill. At the top, you'll get a full panoramic from the Golden Gate Bridge/Presidio all the way to Bayview Hill! The climb to the top is short, but pay attention to all the local wildlife and plants...it's really quite something in the Spring/Summer...there are always volunteer projects here to remove invasive species, I even had the chance to participate back in high school to restore habitat for Mission Blue Butterflies. On my last visit, I was rewarded with a view of a red tailed hawk perched on the (famous) green bench - but it flew off right as I reached for my camera....dang it, EVERYTIME! read more

I love this hill man. The bench and the height and the scenery.. ah, so breathtaking. Every time I go to SF, I want to take the people I'm with here... even though I've only had the chance to go once. Gahddamn time crunches. But really! The sights you get here are so beautiful. I was with my friend, and we were in such awe. I also very much enjoy the fact that it is less crowded than Twin Peaks and yet it is so close to it. read more

Wanna feel like a local? Wanna impress your friends from out of town? Wanna show them how great SF is? This is a great place for a panoramic view of the city, but it does not offer much else in terms of walking/hiking/picnicking. There's fun rocks to sit atop and also one cute green bench, though! Because of the height, it is also very windy (the billowing gusts make for a very cold experience if you do not have adequate outwear, even if it is sunny!). I would call this more of a look-out than a park, but the view is spectacular, especially the initial ascension up the side of the hill. Reminds me of Grand View park, except a little more secret and thus a lot less crowded. Good for a chill-out session, sunset chasing, or some fun photographs. parking is easy in the residential area, but just be mindful of reading the signs. read more

Tank Hill - The green bench! - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Tank hill is another hidden vista point that looks out into the beautiful city of San Francisco! I came here to clear my head and it was a great experience. The hill is very small to walk up and on top of it is a cute wooden bench to enjoy the view, sit and think, read or write. There is also a trail that lead up further, I was not that adventurous to wander out, but there was a passerby who headed out that way. While I was there, only one other person came to the hill, this was perfect! I did not want to be overwhelmed with crowds or tourists. It was just right a nice quiet and peaceful way to clear my mind and appreciate the sight of the city :) read more

Tank Hill - Thinking about life :) - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

The views of the city during sunrise do not get more spectacular than from this very spot. My profile has an example. Views as good as Twin Peaks but with absolutely no tourists. Only locals know about this spot, or bother to tread there. It's part of my morning jog routine, and the view is a reminder of why I moved to SF in the first place. Two other nearby parks that complete a nice walking trio of SF Parks are: Corona Heights Park, and Buena Vista Park. read more

Tank Hill - Downtown at Sunrise from Tank Hill. I interrupted my morning jog to run home, get my camera, and get this shot. - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

When I lived in Twin Peaks, I would visit Tank Hill occasionally on my walks - but didn't think too much of it. Fast forward, several years later when a newfriend wanted to take me to her favorite childhood spot, saying it was quite a strenuous hike. I daresay that this told me more about her than she expected to share. Quite a hike? Dangerous? City girl! Nice views but tiny little promontory of a park - better views can be had elsewhere, not really a destination but fine if you are in the neighborhood and passing through. Watch out for dog poop, trash and loose rocks. read more

So not your typical review but I park right in front of Tank Hill and it is amazing....there is never a shortage of spaces and street cleaning is only once a week and no street permit! As long as your okay walking up hill this is a classic Cole Valley locals parking spot... Yeah, and the view is gorgeous too! You can see GG Bridge on a clear day! read more

Tank Hill - Great parking....with a view! - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

Parked on the street. As you enter there is a steep trail going uphill which was so scary considering my toddler and 6 year old son was with me. Not recommended for kids! Beautiful view up close of SF. Came here during the day, it was nice, sunny, yet super freakin WINDY. It's the shortest hike going to the top. Hung around the area where they have a tire swing and a wood swing....really not much to do but to enjoy the view. This park isn't much of a big deal. I def won't be coming back. For the most part, my kids had fun on the swing, but going downhill was such a risk...Aaaaaah! Be cautious. read more

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I love this place. Still nearly unknown to non-locals; that won't last long with social media, will it? Great views of San Francisco from Tank Hill. Never crowded (yet) and super peaceful. read more

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One of my favorite spots in the city to just contemplate on how good/bad my day was. It has such a beautiful view. It's more personal compared to Twin Peaks in my opinion. On a beautiful day...you can see the whole northern part of the city. It's so dramatic. I just come here to take in the sights and to relax. Sometimes...the best things in life are the simple things. read more

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I can't believe I've never been up to this park until about a month ago. Even though it's not as high as Twin Peaks I have to say that I enjoy Tank Hill a lot more, the environment is much more charming and personal, and the views are still just as fantastic. Definitely a great park to bring a lunch and thermos of tea/coffee. I really recommend walking up, via Stanyan to Belgrave and then up the dirt path. Awesome place! read more

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This isn't really a review for Tank Hill. I snapped some photos of these kids on my first visit when I came to see the Blue Angels. They were cute. I hope their parents chance upon these pictures. read more

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Oh my goodness this is the cutest little park. It's not much of a park to any onlooker just passing by. But with a little research, we found this is a secluded little locals spot. And the best surprise was the swing! I'm a swing fanatic and this discovery just made it the best. For me, this is an awesome park because all I need is a great view and a bench. I could spend the whole day here drinking in the fantastic views. It isn't the prettiest place but it is definitely worth the short hike up the stairs. And then the short walk to the swing, what could be better than a good swing and great views while swinging? Brings out the kid in everyone. Super romantic too. Don't let the fact that it's located at the end of a hilly neighborhood fool you. There is no actual parking spots. Just street parking. Just be courteous of the residents and no one will be of bother. read more

Tank Hill - Stairs to the top/bottom - Parks Near Me - San Francisco, California

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There isn't much up there other than the foundation of the old water tank and a sign describing the park. The park is quite small with dry grass, native plants and the rock outcrops. You can see the same rock outcrops at other parks in the city, like Grand View Park and Corona Heights Park (I like both of those parks better than Tank Hill). The hills that lead up the Tank Hill are fairly steep and once you climb up the steps at Tank Hill (there aren't that many of them), you'll get a nice panoramic view. The view is the only reason to come up here. It never seems crowded but then again, there really isn't that much to see because it's a tiny park (or does it even qualify as a park?). You're close enough to run up Twin Peaks, Corona Heights Park, Buena Vista Park, and Mount Sutro, run down to Kezar, or climb the lengthy staircases sprinkled throughout the neighborhood. You'll have to park in the neighborhood since Tank Hill doesn't have its own parking area. Finding parking shouldn't be too difficult. No amenities. read more

There's driving to a vista point to make out, and then there's hiking to a vista point to fully immerse in 260 degrees views of the the city. Tank Hill is definitely the latter. Surprisingly, Tank Hill actually has better views than Twin Peaks because it is lower in elevation. You get a much clearer, unobstructed view of Mission, Castro, Downtown and all the way to Seacliff. Go during the day and go back at dusk for a more dramatic view. The hike up here is really really minimal. You can even do it in platform sandals! Getting here is even easier, you can go south on Clayton and veer right off onto Twin Peaks. Or take the 33 and get off at Clayton/Twin Peaks. No need to mess with Belgrave. Just take these stairs and be in love with SF! http://www.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=166+twin+peaks+blvd,+san+francisco,+ca&sll=37.764065,-122.446747&sspn=0.011857,0.020084&layer=c&ie=UTF8&ll=37.763845,-122.446811&spn=0.011857,0.020084&z=16&om=1&cbll=37.759089,-122.448105&cbp=1,378.047817021704,0.655163432096822,1 read more

A beautiful girl named Colleen once took me here on a hot date. We entered on a dark path only regulars would know anything about on the side of an overgrown hill. We treaded up and clawed our way through thick damp brush, her hand tightly grasping mine. We finally found our way out, and through the clearing I saw the most astounding breathtaking view of the city in all of its natural beauty... 360 degrees of pure bliss. One blanket, two girls, and a view to die for. She hugged me tight with her warm embrace her body heat keeping me warm and safe as the cold air nipped at our noses, I never felt the slightest bit cold. I'll never forget that day or that girl who showed me what a real date was all about. Sending my love to New York.... read more

Tank Hill is an area that even many locals don't know about. Pre WWII a large water tank was built on it (I guess similar to the one on Potrero Hill), the trees were planted to shroud the tank and camouflage it from the oft expected Japanese bombers. On a clear day you can hear Barbra Streisand singing and you can enjoy the crystalline views West, East, North and bits of the South. I've even taken guests up there in rain and fog and they've raved about it. Try a night when you can watch the sun set and the moon rise simultaneously. Don't go there to sort out your relationship - on a calm day the acoustics from the top are such that the neighbors in the gardens below can hear your conversation - trust me - I'm the lady reading a book in her yard, and I don't want to hear why you're just not meshing anymore. read more

Friend took me here one glorious afternoon. Was so impressed that I have now moved into the area. I still come up here, semi-regularly, to clear the mind... 3G work up here so at times you see people tapping away on their iPhones, whilst basking in the sunshine:) read more

Beautiful spot to hang out and chill with your friends. Very low key and much better view than Twin Peaks. Can get a little windy and there is a little muddy path so dont bring your fresh kicks read more

TANK HILL trumps Twin Peaks, and this is why: Tank Hill is one of San Francisco's hidden gems. Unlike Twin Peaks, you cannot drive to the top of this hill. If you have a car, you can park it on the street but you're going to have to get out and hike up the steps to get here. The view from Tank Hill is unrivaled by any other that I've seen in the city. The panoramic, 360-degree view captures all of San Francisco's historic landmarks - this is a great place to see it all. You'll find this spot to be a lot more intimate than Twin Peaks, which can sometimes be overbearingly populated with locals and tourists combined. This place is truly a treasure. Our little secret, indeed. read more

Tank Hill has to be one of my absolute favorite place in the city, in part, due to its proximity and anonymity. I discovered this one Saturday afternoon while wandering. I had just read "Oh the Glory of It All!" and decided to search for Pat Montandon's angel tree on Shrader after googling it and realizing it was just up the street from where I live. The tree was pretty awesome to behold, and having walked up that far, I figured at this rate, I could hit Twin Peaks. I continued to walk up towards the tower and came upon a foresty area just off of Carmel. Having heard enough fairy tales to know not to go wandering into dark foresty areas alone, I did a 180 and proceeded to march off in the opposite direction, which is when I discovered a friendly looking trail. A minute later was possibly the best view of SF one could hope for. I kept it a secret for a while, but since gave in and told all my friends. Tank Hill is now my default place for celebrating New Year's Eve and 4th of July. The views are panoramic, and you can see GG bridge, the Financial District, and Oakland off in the distance. It can at times get quite windy, but just be sure to have your North Face parka handy. It's a nice little getaway for reading (if not windy), and I've even see people do tai chi there. It's relatively crowd free except for any day involving fireworks or the Blue Angels. read more