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Junipero Serra Park: A Tranquil Bay Area Escape

Escape to nature with panoramic Bay Area views, hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnic spots in this tranquil San Bruno park.

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Junipero Serra Park, nestled in San Bruno, offers a peaceful retreat with stunning views of the San Francisco Bay. This 103-acre park features hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a chance to connect with nature, all while being conveniently located near the urban bustle.

A brief summary to Junipero Serra Park

  • Monday 8 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-8 pm
  • Friday 8 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a parking spot and picnic area.
  • Bring cash for the vehicle entry fee, as it may be required.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the trails.
  • Be aware of poison oak and stay on marked trails.
  • Check the park's website for updated hours and any advisories or closures.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Junipero Serra Park is located at 1801 Crystal Springs Rd, San Bruno, CA 94066. From I-280, exit onto San Bruno Avenue and head east. Turn onto Crystal Springs Road and follow it to the park entrance. From Highway 101, take the 380 West to El Camino Real, head south, then turn right onto Crystal Springs Road. The park entrance will be on your left. Parking is available within the park for a vehicle entry fee of $6. Note that seniors, veterans, and those with disability placards may be eligible for waivers.

  • Public Transport

    While public transportation directly to Junipero Serra Park is limited, several bus routes stop within walking distance. From the Daly City BART station, you can take the 121 or 122 bus towards Skyline College or South City BART, respectively. Get off at a stop near Junipero Serra Boulevard and walk to the park. Alternatively, take the BART to Colma station and transfer to a bus that serves the Junipero Serra Blvd & Colma Park N Ride. From there, it's a walk to the park. A single-ride fare on SamTrans buses is typically around $2.25. Check the SamTrans website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and fares.

  • Walking

    For those staying in the surrounding neighborhoods of San Bruno and Millbrae, Junipero Serra Park is easily accessible by foot. From Crystal Springs Road, simply follow the road to the park entrance. Be mindful of traffic as you walk along Crystal Springs Road. Once inside the park, various trails connect to different areas, including the playgrounds, picnic spots, and scenic overlooks.

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Discover more about Junipero Serra Park

Junipero Serra Park, a 103-acre haven in San Bruno, California, provides a refreshing escape with panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay Area. Named after Father Junipero Serra, a controversial figure known for establishing Spanish missions in California, the park's history stretches back to the Costonoan Indians, who once thrived in the area. The park's diverse landscape includes wooded hills, open meadows, and a variety of trees like coast live oak, buckeye, and Monterey cypress. In spring, wildflowers add vibrant colors to the scenery. Hiking trails wind through these habitats, offering both leisurely strolls and more challenging hikes. The Quail Loop Trail, a 1.2-mile path, provides an excellent overview of the park, while the Live Oak Nature Trail offers a shorter, interpretive loop. For families, Junipero Serra Park boasts two playgrounds, including one with a thrilling 54-foot-long double slide and an octahedral climbing gym. Numerous picnic areas are available for relaxing outings with friends and family. The park also features a small visitor center with exhibits showcasing the park's various habitats. While enjoying the park's natural beauty, visitors can also reflect on its complex history. Archaeological digs have revealed evidence of Native American settlements, and the park's namesake, Junipero Serra, remains a figure of debate due to his treatment of indigenous people. Despite the controversies, Junipero Serra Park offers a valuable space for recreation, connection with nature, and contemplation.

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