Touring * Fitness * Slalom * Artistic *

Lake Merced is located in the southwestern corner of San Francisco, accessible from city streets that connect with Highway 35 on the west side of town. Free parking can be found around the lake, though the best lot is located at the intersection of Sunset Avenue and Park Merced Boulevard. Another lot is at Brotherhood Way. The lake is also served by Muni buses.

The Lake Merced Trail circumnavigates the large reservoir of the same name just inland from the shoreline sand dunes of southwestern San Francisco. Blessed with wide, smooth pavement, the route passes through pleasant half-urban, half-park surroundings, enhanced by trees and lawns. The trail's 4.5-mile length makes it an ideal place for fitness training and fast laps. While many stretches are suitable for beginners, you really should have intermediate skills before attempting the full loop. There are several moderate hills on the way around, just steep enough for some fun slalom turns or breezy cruising. The best hill is on the east side between Font Boulevard and Brotherhood Way.