Jack Early Park

A Hidden Hilltop Retreat

Tucked away in San Francisco's Telegraph Hill neighborhood sits Jack Early Park, a tiny oasis that most tourists (and even many locals) completely miss. Back in 1962, a neighborhood resident named Jack E. Early saw potential in an undeveloped dead-end strip of Pfeiffer Street and transformed it into something special.

The current stairway came along in 1986, and a year later, the spot was officially christened as a park. If you're into quirky urban trivia, you'll love that some consider this possibly the smallest park in San Francisco - definitely one for the "quiet retreats" list.

Stunning Panoramic Views

The heart of this micro-park is a steep staircase of about 90 steps that winds its way to a tiny viewing platform at the top. The climb is worth it.

Once you've caught your breath, you'll be rewarded with sweeping vistas of San Francisco Bay, with Alcatraz rising from the water, the elegant span of the Bay Bridge, majestic Mount Tamalpais in the distance, and the bustling eastern edge of Fisherman's Wharf below.

At the summit, you'll find just two benches on a compact platform - this isn't a place for crowds, but rather for quiet contemplation. While treetops might partially block your view of the Golden Gate Bridge, the panorama that unfolds before you is still impressive.

Natural Surroundings

Despite measuring just a fraction of what most would consider a proper park, this little piece of tranquility offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle. As you climb the stairs, trees and shrubs create a natural corridor that feels worlds away from the urban landscape.

There's something distinctly European about the experience - like stumbling upon a secret passage in an Italian hillside town. The surrounding homes with their classic architectural details and terracotta roof tiles only enhance this atmosphere.

It's a nice spot to pause and reset during a day of exploration.

Visitor Information

You can find the entrance gate at the intersection of Pfeiffer and Grant Avenue, where the staircase begins its upward journey. The park welcomes visitors daily from 7:30AM to 7:30PM - just be mindful of that closing time to avoid an unexpected overnight stay!

Given its diminutive dimensions, it only takes about three or four people before the space feels quite full. There are no restrooms or other facilities here, so plan accordingly.

Jack Early Park makes for a wonderful quick detour while exploring the North Beach area, or you can incorporate it into a longer walking tour around Telegraph Hill. Its location near other notable spots like Coit Tower and the historic Barbary Coast Trail makes it an easy addition to your San Francisco adventures.