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Knowland Park Open Space: Oakland's Hillside Escape

Explore Oakland's natural side: Hike scenic trails, discover wildlife, and enjoy panoramic bay views at Knowland Park Open Space.

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Knowland Park Open Space, nestled in the Oakland hills, is a 500-acre park offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay Area. Once a state park, it's now managed by the City of Oakland and provides a natural escape with diverse plant and animal life.

A brief summary to Knowland Park Open Space

  • Whitecliff Rd, Oakland, Sequoyah, California, 94605, US
  • Monday 5 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 5 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 5 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 5 am-10 pm
  • Friday 5 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 5 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 5 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Bring water and wear appropriate shoes, as trails can be steep and exposed.
  • Check the park's website for trail closures or fire warnings before visiting.
  • Be aware that parking can be limited, especially on weekends; arrive early for better access.
  • Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Oakland, take AC Transit Line 46 towards 'Cypress & 105th Ave'. Transfer to Line 36 towards 'Eastmont Transit Center' and ride to the stop at 'Whitecliff Rd & Knowland Park'. Walk up Whitecliff Road for about 10 minutes to reach the park entrance. A single ride on AC Transit costs $2.10, payable with cash or Clipper Card.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft to reach Knowland Park Open Space. Enter 'Knowland Park Open Space' or the address 'Whitecliff Rd, Oakland, CA 94605' into the app. The ride from downtown Oakland should take around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay approximately $20-$30 for a one-way ride from downtown Oakland, depending on demand and time of day.

  • Driving

    From I-580, exit at Golf Links Road/98th Avenue. Turn east onto Golf Links Road and continue uphill. Turn right onto Caloden Street, then right again onto Malcolm Avenue. Follow Malcolm Avenue uphill and turn right onto one of the cul-de-sacs (Ettrick, Elvessa, Lochard, Cameron, or Snowdown). Park on the street and walk to the park entrance. Parking is free on the surrounding streets, but be mindful of neighborhood residents and access to driveways. Limited parking is also available off Skyline Blvd near Keller Ave. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially on weekends.

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Discover more about Knowland Park Open Space

Knowland Park Open Space, a sprawling 500-acre parkland in the Oakland Hills, provides a vital escape from the urban environment. Named after Joseph R. Knowland, a key figure in California's park system, the park features hiking trails, stunning views, and diverse wildlife. Originally the Joseph Knowland State Arboretum and Park, the land was acquired in 1948 through Knowland's efforts as chairman of the California State Park Commission. In 1973, the site was ceded to the City of Oakland, with the stipulation it remain a public park. The park is divided into eastern and western sections by Golf Links Road. The Oakland Zoo occupies the western lowlands, while the eastern section offers more rugged hiking trails and panoramic views. The park's diverse terrain includes rolling grasslands, oak-studded hills, and maritime chaparral. This landscape supports a variety of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, foxes, and various bird species. Hikers might even spot animals from the Oakland Zoo through the fence line along certain trails. The trails cater to hikers of all skill levels, from easy strolls to challenging climbs. Several trailheads provide access, including those off Malcolm Avenue, Skyline Boulevard, and Golf Links Road. Knowland Park is more than a scenic destination; it's a vital ecological resource. The park's open spaces provide crucial habitat for native plants and animals, and its undeveloped areas serve as a refuge for species displaced by urbanization. Conservation groups work to protect the park's remaining undeveloped areas, advocating for responsible land management and preservation of its unique ecosystems.

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