Pioneer Park
Coit Tower: A Beacon Atop Telegraph Hill
Jack Early Park: A Telegraph Hill Hideaway
Discover a hidden gem on Telegraph Hill: Jack Early Park, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful escape in the heart of San Francisco.
Jack Early Park is a tiny, hidden gem on Telegraph Hill, offering stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. Built in the 1960s by local resident Jack Early, this unique park features a steep stairway leading to a small viewing area with panoramic vistas of Alcatraz, the Bay Bridge, and the Golden Gate Bridge.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Jack Early Park
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
San Francisco, Telegraph Hill, California, 94133, US
Monday
7:30 am-7:30 pm
Tuesday
7:30 am-7:30 pm
Wednesday
7:30 am-7:30 pm
Thursday
7:30 am-7:30 pm
Friday
7:30 am-7:30 pm
Saturday
7:30 am-7:30 pm
Sunday
7:30 am-7:30 pm
Other nearby places you may find interesting
Explore places near Jack Early Park
Getting There
Walking
From Fisherman's Wharf, walk southwest on Jefferson Street, then turn left onto Taylor Street. Continue up Taylor Street until you reach Francisco Street. Turn right onto Francisco Street, then left onto Grant Avenue. Walk a short distance on Grant Avenue, and you'll see the unassuming staircase entrance to Jack Early Park on your right. The climb up the stairs is the final approach.
Public Transport
From downtown San Francisco, take the 8 bus towards North Point. Exit the bus at Columbus Avenue & Chestnut Street, San Francisco. Walk northeast on Columbus Avenue toward Chestnut Street. Turn right onto Chestnut Street. Turn left onto Grant Avenue. The entrance to Jack Early Park will be on your right. Muni bus single ride: $2.85 (with Clipper card or MuniMobile app), $3.00 (cash).
Local tips
✓
Wear comfortable shoes for the steep climb up the stairs.
✓
Bring a jacket, as it can be windy at the top of Telegraph Hill.
✓
Visit on a clear day for the best views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge.
✓
Be mindful of the residents in the area and keep noise to a minimum.
✓
The park is gated and closed at night.
Discover more about Jack Early Park
Jack Early Park, a true labor of love, is a testament to one man's vision to create a peaceful escape in the heart of San Francisco. In the early 1960s, Telegraph Hill resident Jack Early transformed an unused, rocky slope into a charming mini-park. He built the stairs using donated railroad ties, planted trees and shrubs, and hauled water up the hill to nurture his urban oasis.
The park's entrance is easy to miss, marked by a sign that reads, “Dead end stairway. No outlet”. A climb of approximately 60 steps, some made of concrete and others of old railroad ties, leads to a small viewing area. At the top, two single-seat benches offer a spot to relax and soak in the breathtaking views. From this vantage point, you can see Alcatraz Island, the Bay Bridge, and the Golden Gate Bridge. On a clear day, you might even spot the sea lions at Fisherman's Wharf and the distant San Rafael Bridge.
Officially dedicated in 1987, Jack Early Park is a tribute to its creator, who passed away in 1997. Maintained with the support of local neighbors, this park remains a special place offering a tranquil escape and stunning views.
A brief summary to Jack Early Park
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Berkeley
Discover Berkeley, California: A vibrant blend of academic excellence, culinary delights, and cultural richness nestled on the San Francisco Bay's eastern shore.
Tell me more about Berkeley