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Knowland Park: Oakland's Natural Escape

Discover Oakland's wild side at Knowland Park: Hike scenic trails, enjoy panoramic bay views, and explore diverse ecosystems minutes from the city.

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Knowland Park, a sprawling 500-acre park in the Oakland Hills, offers a respite from the urban environment with hiking trails and panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay. Named after Joseph R. Knowland, the park features diverse terrain, from grasslands to oak-studded hills, supporting a variety of plant and animal life.

A brief summary to Knowland Park

  • 9777 Golf Links Rd, Oakland, Sequoyah, California, 94605, US
  • +1510-615-5566

Local tips

  • Bring water and sunscreen, as many trails offer little shade.
  • Be mindful of parking restrictions and neighborhood residents when parking near trailheads.
  • Check the AC Transit website for the most up-to-date bus route information if using public transportation.
  • Wear sturdy shoes, as some trails have uneven terrain.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife, such as deer, coyotes, and various bird species.
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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. 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

Knowland Park, officially the Joseph Knowland State Arboretum and Park, is a natural haven in the Oakland Hills. Spanning approximately 500 acres, the park provides panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay Area. Originally a state park acquired through the efforts of Joseph R. Knowland, it was later ceded to the City of Oakland with the stipulation that it always remain a public park. The park's diverse landscape includes rolling grasslands, oak woodlands, and rare maritime chaparral. This varied topography supports a wide array of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, foxes, and various bird species. The park is divided into eastern and western sections by Golf Links Road. The Oakland Zoo and Arboretum occupy the western lowlands, while the eastern section offers more rugged hiking trails and panoramic views. The park features a network of well-maintained trails for hikers of all skill levels. Many trails offer spectacular views of the bay, including glimpses of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. The trails wind through diverse habitats, providing opportunities to observe the park's flora and fauna. While the Oakland Zoo occupies a portion of Knowland Park's western lowlands, the vast majority of the park remains undeveloped, preserving its natural character. Knowland Park's history is intertwined with the development of the Oakland Zoo. The zoo moved to its current location in Knowland Park in the mid-20th century. Conservation groups have worked to protect the park's remaining undeveloped areas, advocating for responsible land management and preservation of its unique ecosystems.

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