Billy Goat Hill

Spectacular Views

Billy Goat Hill is a small but scenic park located in the Diamond Heights neighborhood of San Francisco, California. Perched atop one of the city's many hills, this park offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of San Francisco and the surrounding Bay Area.

Natural Environment

The park encompasses a modest 3.5 acres of land, featuring a mix of urban forest and grassland plant communities. Its hilltop location provides an excellent vantage point for observing local wildlife, particularly raptors such as American kestrels, which can often be seen soaring overhead as they hunt for small mammals and reptiles in the grasslands below.

Trails and Connections

Billy Goat Hill is known for its short but steep trail network, consisting of approximately 0.2 miles of pathways. The main trail is composed of switchbacks that lead visitors up the hillside to a scenic viewpoint.

From there, the trail continues a short distance before leveling out near Beacon Street. Adjacent to Billy Goat Hill, across Beacon Street, is Walter Haas Park, offering additional recreational opportunities for visitors.

Historical Background

The park's history dates back to the late 1800s and early 1900s when it was part of a quarry owned by the Gray Brothers. After the quarry closed, the area became a neighborhood common space.

In 1975, it was officially designated as a city park. In recent years, the San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department has undertaken renovations to improve safety and access, including trail realignments, the addition of stairs, and the construction of a short retaining wall.

Getting There

Billy Goat Hill can be accessed from both 30th Street and Beacon Street, with ample street parking available in the surrounding area. For those using public transportation, the Muni line 52 stops near the park, on the opposite side of Walter Haas Park.