Roaming in McLaren Park

McLaren Park is one of the biggest, and perhaps the least appreciated, open spaces in the city. I had not been there myself until I decided to include it in our roam repertoire just before the pandemic. Now we have visited several times, from different angles.

This time, I wanted to approach from the Portola side, including the Goettingen staircase that we visited at the end of last year, and loop around the northern slopes of the park - which is part of the Yosemite Creek watershed. We will naturally stop at the water tower as well for the views.

There are several portions of steep climbing on this route, as the park is along a tall spine, and plenty of dirt.

Bringing water, snacks, and layers for all the microclimates is the way to go. There's still a small chance of this being rained off - if the forecast if iffy, I will send an email to everyone who has signed up if we have to postpone or cancel.

These roams are offered by donation. They are one way I am able to pay my rent in San Francisco.

Punctuality is always appreciated. Please send a message on the app if you are running a little late. I can usually respond to messages before we get underway, but then I won't be checking my phone. Meetup has now added a "share location" feature, so you will be able to catch up.

I know Meetup is notorious for no-shows and late changes of rsvp. I am not as strict as other organisers (we do talk to each other!), but I do track those who regularly drop off or no-show, and have disinvited several people with dismal attendance records, as it is discourteous for others who would like to attend.