Joaquin Miller Park Oakland
A 500-acre woodland oasis in Oakland, offering redwood trails, scenic bay views, and picnic spots.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Joaquin Miller Park Oakland
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 500-acre woodland oasis in Oakland, offering redwood trails, scenic bay views, and picnic spots.
"Awesome place for hike, mtbike, trail run, picnic.. I love that there are plenty of parking you can find."
Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty. Download maps before you go to navigate the trails easily. :iphone:
Leash Your Dogs!
The park is dog-friendly, but always keep your furry friends on a leash. :dog:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Redwood Forest Trails
Big Trees Trail, Fern Ravine, Sequoia Bayview Trail
Wander through lush, shaded trails lined with stunning second-growth redwoods. A true East Bay gem!
Panoramic Bay Views
Lookout Point
Enjoy breathtaking views of the San Francisco and Oakland skylines from various viewpoints.
Historic Relics
Various locations throughout the park
Discover remnants of the park's past, hinting at its former vibrant activity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Foggy Charm
Trail Etiquette & Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty. Download maps before you go to navigate the trails easily. :iphone:
Leash Your Dogs!
The park is dog-friendly, but always keep your furry friends on a leash. :dog:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be uneven and sometimes muddy. Good hiking shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Pack a Picnic
Plenty of picnic areas and BBQs available. Enjoy a meal amidst nature. :sandwich:
Tips
from all over the internet
Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty. Download maps before you go to navigate the trails easily. :iphone:
Leash Your Dogs!
The park is dog-friendly, but always keep your furry friends on a leash. :dog:
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be uneven and sometimes muddy. Good hiking shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Pack a Picnic
Plenty of picnic areas and BBQs available. Enjoy a meal amidst nature. :sandwich:
Be Trail Aware
Some trails are narrow and shared with bikers. Be mindful and yield when necessary. :mountain_bicyclist:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Joaquin Miller Park for its beautiful redwood forests, stunning bay views, and dog-friendly atmosphere. It's a great spot for hiking, picnics, and enjoying nature. Some infrastructure shows signs of neglect, and certain hillside trails could be wider for safety, especially when sharing with bikers.
"This park is close to my home, and I often go there for a trail walk on the weekends. I was pleasantly surprised by a few viewpoints where you can see the skylines of both Auckland and San Francisco; it was very enjoyable. You can easily spend a couple of hours there, have lunch in the park, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike up the hill to the space center, which is called the Job Space Center. It’s a fun park where you can spend an entire day. There are numerous trails to explore, making it a great place for families, friends, or even dogs."
Vishruth Rao
"A park that at one point must have had a lot of activity, but now most of its infrastructure has been neglected. As you walk around you will notice relics of the past, but not all is lost. First there are a few things that are maintained and are accessable, and second what's available to the public is very enjoyable. Great views of San Francisco, downtown Oakland and the Bay are at the top of the list. There are hiking and biking trails all around."
Greg Roderick
"Awesome place for hike, mtbike, trail run, picnic.. I love that there are plenty of parking you can find, along the side of roads and parking lots."
Karen Hii
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Joaquin Miller Park is located in the Oakland Hills. You can drive and park in various lots or along the roads. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is generally recommended.
Yes, there are multiple parking areas and street parking available throughout the park. It can get busy on weekends, so arriving early is a good idea. 
While there are bike paths within the park, direct bike access from surrounding areas might depend on your starting point. Many visitors drive and then bike within the park.
Public transport options are scarce for direct access to the park. It's best to check local bus routes, but driving is the most convenient method.
From San Francisco, take a BART train towards Richmond or Antioch and exit at MacArthur Station. From there, you'll likely need a rideshare or taxi to reach Joaquin Miller Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Joaquin Miller Park is a public park and does not require an entrance fee or tickets. It's free to explore!
The park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific facilities like restrooms might have limited hours. It's always a good idea to check the official Oakland Parks and Recreation website for any updates.
Yes, Joaquin Miller Park is typically open on holidays. However, expect larger crowds on popular holiday weekends.
While entry is free, some specific facilities like reservable picnic areas or group BBQ sites might incur a fee. It's best to check with Oakland Parks and Recreation for reservations.
The park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Overnight stays are not permitted, and it's advisable to leave before sunset for safety reasons.
🎫 🌲 Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Big Trees Trail, Fern Ravine, and Sequoia Bayview Trail for redwood immersion. The Chaparral Trail is great for mountain biking. Many trails connect, offering diverse hiking experiences.
Yes, Lookout Point offers stunning panoramic views of the San Francisco and Oakland skylines. Other elevated spots also provide scenic vistas.
Absolutely! The park has trails suitable for children, picnic areas, and open spaces to explore. Some trails are wide and paved, making them easier for younger ones.
Yes, Joaquin Miller Park is very dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome on a leash on all trails and in picnic areas.
You might spot various birds, squirrels, and other small woodland creatures. The park's diverse ecosystem supports a range of local fauna.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants within Joaquin Miller Park. It's a natural park focused on outdoor activities. You'll need to bring your own food or dine in nearby Oakland.
Yes, the park has numerous picnic areas with tables and BBQ facilities. It's a popular spot for families and groups to enjoy meals outdoors.
The closest dining options are in the surrounding Oakland neighborhoods. You can find a variety of restaurants and cafes a short drive from the park entrance.
Bring your own food, drinks, picnic blanket, and any necessary utensils. Don't forget trash bags to pack out everything you bring in.
Water fountains are available in some areas of the park, but it's always a good idea to carry your own water bottle, especially on longer hikes.
📸 📸 Photography
Lookout Point offers stunning skyline views. The redwood groves provide dramatic, atmospheric shots, especially when foggy. The historic structures also make for unique photo opportunities.
Yes, the combination of rolling hills, dense forests, and distant bay views makes it excellent for landscape photography. The fog can add a dramatic element.
Early mornings often offer beautiful fog and soft light. Late afternoons provide golden hour light for scenic views. Midday can be harsh, but the redwood canopy offers shade.
Drone usage is typically restricted in city parks to ensure safety and preserve the natural environment. It's best to check with Oakland Parks and Recreation for specific regulations.
Yes, remnants of old structures and the general rustic feel of the park can provide interesting historical photography subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids will love exploring the redwood forests, discovering nature, and perhaps even spotting some local wildlife. The numerous picnic areas with tables and BBQ facilities are perfect for a family lunch or afternoon gathering. Consider packing snacks and plenty of water, as amenities are limited within the park. The Lookout Point offers a great spot to show kids the expansive views of the bay.
It's a wonderful place for children to connect with nature and burn off some energy in a safe and beautiful environment. Some school groups even organize field trips here, highlighting its educational value. 🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature lovers will appreciate the diverse flora, including towering redwoods and fragrant eucalyptus trees.
The frequent fog adds a mystical quality to the landscape, especially in the mornings, creating a unique atmosphere for exploration. Remember to bring your camera to capture the stunning views and the serene forest settings. Downloading offline maps is highly recommended due to inconsistent cell service. 🚴 Mountain Bikers
The park's varied terrain offers a good challenge, with some trails featuring climbs and descents suitable for intermediate riders. The interconnected trail system allows for longer rides and exploration of different park sections. It's crucial for mountain bikers to be aware of trail etiquette, as many paths are shared with hikers. Yielding to hikers and being mindful of your speed is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
While there are dedicated biking areas, always be prepared for encounters with other park users. Parking is generally ample, making it convenient to access the trails.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Joaquin Miller Park
Many visitors enjoy the Chaparral Trail for its mountain biking opportunities, though it's important to be aware of cyclists if you're hiking. When planning your hike, remember that cell service can be unreliable. Downloading offline maps or using a GPS device is crucial for navigation.
Be prepared for varying elevations; some trails lead to higher points with rewarding views. Remember to stay on marked paths to protect the park's delicate ecosystem and ensure your safety.For those seeking a less-traveled path, one Reddit user suggested the Sequoia Bayview Trail as a personal favorite, hinting that there might be other lesser-known gems to discover.
Panoramic Views and Natural Beauty
Beyond the cityscapes, the park's natural charm is amplified by its frequent fog. This ethereal mist often blankets the redwood groves, creating a magical and serene atmosphere.
The scent of eucalyptus and damp earth further enhances the sensory experience, making it a truly immersive nature escape. Even on a busy weekend, the sheer size of the park allows visitors to find moments of solitude and feel as though they are deep in the woods. Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture the park's beauty, from the dramatic fog-laden forests to the sweeping bay views.
The interplay of light and shadow within the redwood canopy, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, offers a photographer's dream. A Dog-Friendly Haven
+1 This policy allows furry friends to join their humans on adventures, whether it's a leisurely walk on a paved path or a more vigorous hike through the redwood forests. Many visitors appreciate being able to share the natural beauty of the park with their pets.While the park doesn't have dedicated off-leash dog parks, the vastness of the trails provides ample space for dogs to explore and enjoy the outdoors.
It's important for owners to be responsible by keeping their dogs leashed to ensure the safety of other visitors and to protect the park's wildlife. The presence of other dogs and people means that socialization opportunities are plentiful, making it a great spot for well-behaved pups.The convenience of having numerous parking areas also makes it easier for dog owners to access the park and start their adventures without hassle.
The combination of scenic trails, open spaces, and a dog-friendly policy makes Joaquin Miller Park a top choice for locals and visitors looking to enjoy the outdoors with their four-legged family members.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit