Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
Tucked away in the hills, Mountain Lake is San Francisco’s hidden sanctuary of calm. The mirror-like water reflects skies and trees, while a gentle breeze makes your breath feel lighter. Whether you're jogging at dawn, picnicking at noon, or simply sitting to watch the sunset, this peaceful spot offers a perfect escape from city chaos. Yes, you read that right—old town meets serenity in the heart of the Bay Area.
This legendary luxury hotel in downtown San Francisco seamlessly blends historic architecture with modern elegance. Enjoy exceptional service including a professional concierge, valet parking, and a state-of-the-art fitness center with a glass-enclosed heated pool. The beautifully decorated rooms offer in-room dining with stunning city views. The hotel features two award-winning restaurants with unique ambiance. Its prime location is steps away from Union Square, cable cars, and Chinatown, making it perfect for exploring the city. Whether for business or leisure, this hotel promises an unforgettable stay.
Everything you need to know about Mountain Lake
The Claremont Hotel & Spa is a top choice nestled near Mountain Lake, offering stunning views of the lakeside greenery and surrounding hills. This historic boutique hotel combines luxury with nature, featuring an award-winning spa, hiking trail access, and a restaurant specializing in fresh local ingredients. Located just 15 minutes from downtown San Francisco, it’s easily reachable by car or bus. Ideal for both leisure travelers seeking tranquility and business guests needing comfort and convenience, the hotel blends elegance with California’s natural charm.
Getting to Mountain Lake from downtown San Francisco is convenient via multiple options: take bus lines 28 or 30 along Kearny Street, reaching the area in about 20–25 minutes; alternatively, rent an e-bike and ride along the scenic Bay Area Ridge Trail for a refreshing, eco-friendly journey. For added comfort and flexibility, ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft offer a 15-minute trip with reasonable fares. Plenty of parking is available around Mountain Lake, making it ideal for self-drivers. The well-connected transit system ensures easy access for all types of travelers.
Near Mountain Lake, visitors can enjoy a range of unique outdoor activities including lake kayaking (rental options for single or tandem kayaks), loop hiking trails (about 4 km long, passing through native forests and birdwatching spots), and weekend guided nature walks led by expert naturalists exploring local wildlife and flora. Summer events also feature outdoor yoga sessions and stargazing programs, offering peaceful moments under the open sky. Most activities are free to access, though some require advance HopeGoo. These experiences combine fitness, education, and relaxation—perfect for immersing in the natural beauty of San Francisco’s hidden gems.
Yes, The Claremont Hotel & Spa near Mountain Lake is highly family-friendly, offering amenities such as a children’s pool, family suites with separate bedrooms and play areas, and daily kids’ craft workshops (like pottery and nature art). The hotel features a mini-club staffed by trained professionals for children aged 6 to 12, allowing parents to relax with spa treatments or dining. Safe playgrounds, picnic zones, and baby stroller rentals are also available. The nearby lakeside walking trails are perfect for family strolls, making it an ideal destination for bonding and outdoor fun.
Mountain Lake Lodge is the top choice for accommodations near Mountain Lake, offering lakefront views and easy access to hiking trails. The lodge features an indoor hot spring pool and guided nature walks, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Located just 30 minutes from downtown San Francisco via bus or rental car, it’s ideal for a peaceful retreat. Public transit doesn’t reach the area directly—ride-sharing services are recommended. Nearby attractions include the Mountain Lake Wildlife Sanctuary and a stargazing platform, where night skies reveal stunning constellations, making it a rare urban escape with natural beauty.
The most convenient option is renting a car or using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. Public transit requires multiple bus transfers and takes about an hour, with no direct route. For buses, take the 97-line from the 4th Street stop to "Mountain Lake Station," but service is limited to weekdays only. Driving saves time and allows flexibility to explore nearby spots like the lake trailhead and scenic overlooks, enhancing your overall visit efficiency and experience.
Enjoy guided early-morning ecological tours to spot local birds and wetland species, or book a kayaking adventure on the serene lake, reflecting distant mountains. The Mountain Lake picnic grounds feature wooden platforms and shaded shelters—perfect for family gatherings. Weekly stargazing events on Saturdays include telescopes and astronomy talks, revealing constellations and the Milky Way. Don’t miss the Mountain Lake Art Trail, showcasing nature-inspired sculptures by local artists, blending art and environment in a truly immersive way.
Yes, Mountain Lake Lodge provides excellent family-friendly facilities. Rooms include child safety railings and baby bathtubs, plus a dedicated kids’ playroom with puzzles, art supplies, and sand tables. Daily family nature workshops—such as creating plant specimens or building bird nests—encourage environmental curiosity. Outdoor features include a children’s pool and a mini rock climbing wall. Family suites accommodate up to four guests, with spacious layouts, separate living areas, and kitchenettes, ideal for extended stays with children.
See what other travelers say about Mountain Lake
Staying at the Palace Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel in San Francisco was an absolute highlight of my trip. The location couldn't be better—just a short walk from Union Square, making it easy to explore shopping, dining, and local attractions. The hotel exudes old-world elegance with its grand European palace-inspired design, creating a truly luxurious atmosphere from the moment you step inside. The rooms are spacious, beautifully furnished, and incredibly comfortable, with high-quality bedding that made for a restful night's sleep. Staff were attentive and friendly without being overbearing, always ready to help. It’s clear this hotel takes pride in delivering exceptional service and attention to detail. For anyone visiting San Francisco, this is not just a place to stay—it’s an experience worth every penny.
The Lombard Inn is a solid choice if you're looking for a no-frills stay in San Francisco. The rooms are clean and the beds are surprisingly comfortable—perfect for a good night's rest. While the decor and furnishings feel a bit dated, they’re still functional and adequately maintained. One thing worth mentioning is that the hallways had a slight musty odor, likely due to the carpets needing a deep clean. That said, it’s an easy fix and doesn’t detract much from the overall experience. I’d recommend this hotel for travelers who prioritize comfort and convenience over modern design. It’s a reliable option with great value, especially if you're on a budget.
We stayed in Glasgow for a few days and stopped by this hotel for breakfast—had no expectations going in, but was pleasantly surprised. The menu options were somewhat limited, but the warm welcome and excellent service from Thomas made all the difference. He went above and beyond to make our morning special. It’s a hidden gem with a welcoming vibe, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone passing through.
On Friday, April 21st at 10:15 AM, a guest from another building at the hotel climbed over the fence between units 179 and 173, entered our private driveway area, then climbed over our fence and left toward Wiese Street, heading toward 16th Street. We immediately called 911. The situation was alarming and unsettling. While police responded promptly, the incident raised serious concerns about property security and safety protocols. It's important to note that making assumptions based on someone's background is not only inappropriate but also harmful. As guests, we expect the hotel to maintain a secure environment for all. We hope management will take immediate action to improve fencing, surveillance, and overall safety measures to prevent future incidents.
Explore more amazing destinations