Great view and easy to climb. There are steps too that make it easier to get down. It's never too crowded the times I've come. People also respect the rock and it's usually clean in the surrounding area. Parking can be challenging because it's in a residential area, but sometimes people make their own parking if they're not staying too long. It's a great place that is close enough to get to without long windy roads and still have an amazing, clear view. read more

Was introduced to bouldering here. Very accessible location. Super hectic on weekends and at sunset. Great for families and solo projects as well. The rock (volcanic rhyolite) offers good grip but hard on the hands. Remember to bring a crash pad! read more

Indian Rock Park offers a serene escape, perfect for quiet reflection or quality time with family. The views are nothing short of breathtaking. read more

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Pssst, wanna trick your friends by showing a nice bay-overlooking pic that makes it seem like you did a strenuous hike for it but really you walked just some stair-like rock steps in under a few minutes? Here's your spot! Granted, the steps on this rock are a bit steep so they're not suitable for those who have weak knees and/or get easily disoriented when looking down on steps from a high altitude. Also, the rock peak isn't huge so maybe like 10 people can stand there before it becomes overcrowded. Fun fact: this spot has been used for rock climbing practice for decades and environmentalist David Brower incorporated some of his learned techniques here in World War II training manuals that ultimately helped the U.S. disrupt German lines in southern Europe. Parking: street parking in a residential area. On a weekday finding parking wasn't too much of a hassle but I can imagine parking availability being a bit more dicey on weekends. read more

Indian Rock Park - Can see a bit of SF across the bay - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California

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It's worth it! A small, unexpected park full of 3 story boulders, plopped in a very Berkeley-esque neighborhood. Rocky steps are crudely carved into the side of the largest rock structure making a winding path to the top. And the view of the bay and GG bridge is amazing. It takes about 1 minute to get up there, just stay steady and wear flats! There's also a bunch of little alcoves to hide and explore. Think of this as a nice 30 minute stop to catch a nice view and say you kinda exercised read more

Indian Rock Park - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California

Like few places in the world, the San Francisco Bay area has amazing exposures of interesting geology. Indian Rock Park is an outcrop of rhyolite right in the middle of residential Berkeley Hills. This brand of rhyolite is officially known as the Northbrae Rhyolite. It erupted, about 11.5 million years ago. This spot is popular for rock climbers, and anyone interested in some quick fun and a beautiful view of the San Francisco Bay. Indian Rock Park is one of three Rock parks here in the Berkeley Hills within an easy walking distance. While parked at Indian Rock Park, walk-up Indian Rock Road to see Mortar Rock Park and Grotto Rock Park. read more

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Talk about a unique place, Indian Rock Park is exactly that!!! This 'park' is one huge rock!! I had no idea coming here that I would be climbing up a rock!! Wear some good shoes when coming here. And respect the climb, because it takes a little getting used to at first. But once you got it and climb all the way to the top, there's some places to sit down and enjoy all the great views!! I guess you can call this a hike, but it's super short so I'm not sure about that. You can use the stairs which makes it easier, or you can go your own way for more of a challenge. Located in the Berkeley Hills, I came late on a Sunday so parking was easy. Definitely different!! read more

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BEAUTIFUL VIEWS. Indian Rock is a super easy climb because it's simply like a long and narrow staircase, but it is a little treacherous, precarious, and scary in the darkness of night (use your phone as a flashlight). The social distancing at Indian Rock Park is not good. Many people encroached upon my space when I deliberately selected a spot away from everyone. It gets crazy busy around sunset so that's the most active time. I recommend coming here and spending some time to breathe in the air, look at the views, and relax from all the craziness of this world (in a socially-distanced, responsible way of course)! read more

Indian Rock Park - :) - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California

Came about 10am on Sunday morning an had no trouble finding street parking near the intersection of San Mateo and Indian Rock (google maps directed me here). If you are coming from this entrance, you either head to the left if you want to walk up the carved pathway up the rock or you would walk right down the stairs to climb the rock. I am hella out of shape and was able to walk up. The carved pathway up the rock was really helpful. Of course, if you are scared of heights, it may be slightly more challenging coming down if you don't re-locate the carved pathway down. Pros: -relatively simple and quick (even my french bulldog joined me) -great views on a clear day -free! Cons: -n/a Other: -there was a water fountain available read more

What a nice surprise in this Berkeley neighborhood. I hope the neighbors that surrond the rock see it as a pleasure to have this structure here as opposed to being bothered by the foot traffic. A few neighbors could walk out of their front door, take a few steps and touch the structure. It's neighborhood parking, but I found one right away and it was directly across the street. SCORE! So there is a path of stairs that will take you atop the ROCK. But did you know that behind the rock there is a cave-like area where rock climbers actually bring their equipment - harnesses and foam pads (in case of FAIL) and actually attempt to scale it. I actually watched one guy give it a try, but he didn't seem to make it very far. But as with anything worth it, you must have patience. Unfortunately there was to much heat for me to stick around and see if he would make it. On the lowere level, there is a park bench shaded by trees and from that bench, you can see San Francisco. Well, it was an extremely foggy day so at best I saw a shrouded area that I think is San Francisco. This is a cool place to impress out of towners. Here's What I Think...I will come back at Sunset and possible even Sunrise. read more

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My biking/hiking buddy called and asked if I wanted to go on a hike or bike ride--I told her I really wanted to visit Indian Rock. We had ridden by Indian Rock on our bikes many times before and I was impressed with it's beauty and popularity even while surrounded by homes.  We ended up hiking from her home in Albany.  We hiked through 2 small parks on the way up the hill. John Hinkel Park was a sweet surprise that we walked through--I want to go back there shortly after it rains to see the waterfalls.  We also climbed up Mortar Rock on our trek to Indian Rock. I want to recommend parking at the base of the hill and take many of the paths through the neighborhoods to Indian Rick. Parking can be a problem at Indian Rock. Another benefit of parking at the base of the hill and walking up is the aerobic exercise. My friend measured that we had walked 20 flights of stairs on our hike. I would recommend wearing comfortable shoes that don't slip. There are steps carved into Indian Rock which makes it a pretty easy climb. If you plan on sitting on the top of the Rock for a while--I highly recommend bringing water. If it's a sunny day bring a hat, and if it is foggy or windy wear layers. For me, this is an amazing nature experience (but in a neighborhood)! It is very grounding to be there. You can easily go into a meditative state, or enjoy one of the most spectacular views in the Bay Area. read more

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Beautiful hidden gem that not many people that visit the Bay Area go to and FREE. I love that it's a very laid back spot to just enjoy nature and each other's company. Parking is tough as it is surrounded by residential parking. Pro-tip if you are going at night- bring a flashlight and blanket/warm jacket. They do have a section with man made steps to make it easier to get on top of the rock. Enjoy! read more

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This place was fun and cool! I came down one afternoon to for a walk during the shut-down. There were 2 other groups on the rock when we arrived so there was plenty of space to social distance. The view was beautiful and clear - we could see SF and the golden gate bridge. As we were leaving, about 3-4 groups came (this was around 6pm). read more

Indian Rock Park - Steps to the too of the rock - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California

You get a sweeping view of the bay , downtown San Francisco, Golden Gate Bridge, eastern span of the Bay Bridge from top of the boulders. I'm in love with this place. When I moved to Berkeley from Daly City 20 years ago, I was working full time and going to school at nights , never explored the town. I wished I did but that's okay , here I am now. This is one of those few places where I feel like I'm home , in the right place and not out of place. When I sit on the boulders somehow makes me feel so calm, relaxed and my usually high anxious tense nerves chill out. Anyways, this is where the Ohlone tribal people used to hang out and chill out too. ( didn't see any grinding holes). read more

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Finally got to cross Indian Rock Park off my Bay Area bucket list! As many others have stated, social distancing here isn't the greatest. I only stayed for around 30 minutes to explore, but many people come here on weekends. I also have only bouldered a few times in my life, so I didn't come here to do that. It was more just to see the view - breathtaking, by the way! It would have been nice to stay longer, but there were just too many people. Climbing to the top was also a work out. Could have been just my pandemic stamina that made it seem like more of a workout than it really was. But if you find yourself in the Berkeley area, recently moved out there, or are a local who has never been, definitely check it out. I'd likely use the are to work out if I lived closer. Also note that this is in a residential area! Please be mindful of those who live nearby. read more

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We agreed to meet in Berkeley and I promised to find us a place. I wasn't certain exactly what Indian Rock Park offered, I knew only that I was interested in checking it out. "I can't tell if there's hiking but if not we'll just go on a neighborhood hike" was how I put it. I arrived early, parked (ample street parking available), and scoped things out. Indian Rock Park spans both the east and west side of the street in this residential neighborhood but it is a sitting spot (or rock scaling spot), not a hiking spot. What it lacks in hiking opportunities though, it makes up for in ambiance. My friend arrived and I led the way up the rock on the west side of the street. This is the biggest rock and it takes mere minutes, if that, to scale. Reaching the top, we perched ourselves on a comfortable outcropping with a panoramic vista splayed out before us: the bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay Bridge, the Campanile, and a million other things. The sun shone gently upon us, providing warmth on an otherwise cool day. We'd been sitting there chatting for a while when I asked if she wanted to go hike the neighborhood. "Let's sit here a while longer" was the response. A while...an hour...two. Others came and went, pairs and solo visitors, and there we sat until we were both hungry enough to leave in search of lunch. When we returned later the sun was low in the sky. We made our way back up. People come here at all times of the day but even more of them come to watch the sun set. I had only my prescription sunglasses with me and about 5 minutes before it got too dark for me to get down safely I suggested we do just that. As we climbed down from the rock we looked back out at the fading view. "This is our new place" she said. I'll go with that. It's not a hike or even particularly difficult (there are actually stairs carved into the rock) but it's a wonderful place for a view and a little clearing of the head, or even just a long day of chatting with one of your closest friends. I loved it. read more

Indian Rock Park - Looking down from the top of the rock. Everyone else is looking out at the drop-dead view. - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Checking off the listing on the #localadventurechallenge, I saw Indian Rock. After reading Yelpers reviews, this park peaked my interest and I decided to check it out before picking up some food nearby. After navigating the confusing turnabout, I finally turned onto Indian Rock Road. This rock park is in the middle of a neighborhood and parking was easy. The rock outcrop has some carved steps offering an easy several minutes climb to the top, unless you want to challenge yourself and climb the face of the rock as some people were doing. At the top, you some great views towards the Bay and the surrounding areas. I was curious how this park came to be, which a sign at the park describes. The rock is an ancient volcanic remnant and after the Mason-McDuffie Company developed the subdivision in the area, donated this rock formation and others to the City of Berkeley. It might not be a traditional hike at Indian Park, but it is a nice way to chill out from the top while admiring the view. read more

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Not sure I would call this a hike, but more of a viewpoint. The main rock is located in a residential area, so be mindful of where you park. The rock itself is relatively small in terms of finding a spot to sit that also has a view. The bottom half is blocked by large trees. I love that the rock has steps cut into for ease of access so it's great for all ages honestly. The rock is surprisingly clean (no need to wipe my hands off on my jeans). Great place to catch a sunset or just relax for a few moments. Not going to lie, but I've never stayed long because a rock is not the comfiest place to sit. With people coming and going frequently, seems like they have the same idea as well. read more

Indian Rock Park - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California

This mythic spot reminds me of a scene in a very old Cary Grant movie where he played Jim Blandings, a Madison Avenue hotshot and hopelessly naive first-time homebuyer who pours his life savings into a money pit of a house in Connecticut. He bristled at his Italian contractor Mr. Zucca's suggestion to dynamite a big rock that's getting in the way of the construction. Zucca explained: "That's no rock. It's a ledge." Blandings asked what a ledge was, to which Zucca responded, "A ledge is like a big stone. Only bigger." "Like a boulder?" replied Blandings. "No, like a ledge," exclaimed Zucca in no uncertain terms. Indian Rock is no rock. It's a ledge (photo: http://bit.ly/2GfjPwR). I used to come here with friends when I was an undergrad. Usually at night, usually with some alcohol involved. Probably burnt out studying for finals at Moffett Library. Don't try this at home. I recently took Jamie W. in the daytime to take in the panoramic view (photo: http://bit.ly/2F2l9Um). The steps carved into the rock seemed barely discernible now, but it wasn't treacherous. The rock climbers were busy practicing on the back side of the rock. I wasn't aware the park extends across the street to smaller outcropping and a barbecue pit. Indian Rock Path takes you down to Solano Avenue where you can argue whether Indian Rock is really a rock or a ledge. I know how Mr. Zucca would have said. read more

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I've been going here since high school. What a great view for sunsets! Romantic spot! Bring a bottle of wine and something to smoke. lol Great spot. Has rock climbing also. 5 strong stars! Amazing! Bring your dogs. read more

Indian Rock Park - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Fun spot for enjoying the view of SF and for outdoor bouldering! One of my favorite visits here was grabbing pizza at Cheeseboard and bringing it to the top for sunset! It's generally crowded at sunset but is ok any other time. The staircase to the top is a bit narrow (you'll have to step to the side on the rock if someone is going the opposite way) and not too steep. The view is solid but not as wide as if you went to the Lawrence Hall of Science. There's no rails so this may feel unsafe for those that don't hike or are afraid of heights. There's a number of bouldering routes here. On a Saturday morning we were able to get a spot, but it was tough finding a new spot after that as more people arrived. read more

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Such a beautiful look out point! Plenty of parking because it is located in a residential neighborhood. You do have to climb up the rocks quite a bit so I would recommend wearing closed toed shoes, although I accidentally wore Birkenstock's and was able to climb up the rock with no issues. Next time I come here I will bring some food and have a little picnic while watching the sunset over the bay. It's the perfect spot! read more

Indian Rock Park - View of San Francisco from Indian Rock Park - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California

This place was something I've never seen before. Rocks seemingly as large as a 2 story house are just hanging out here. The pictures on yelp don't do this place justice. Its a must-see! I suggest coming here early to get a good parking spot. We came before 3 on a Friday. Its in a small semi fancier neighborhood. Even with no one there, there's slim parking. By the time we left there were cars all around us. Bring good shoes. The walk up to the view had me nervous. I had my wedge sneaks on which was cute for traipsing in the mall, but not uphill climb appropriate. I was focusing on the incline while precariously holding a goofy footed 4 year old. There's a slight elevation and the fear factor of slipping and falling while also trying to save my toddler in case he gets hurt is real. Moral of the story, don't wear the cutesy shoes here. When you reach the top, its kinda surreal. Everyone seemed to be in a quiet peaceful mantra state of mind. How could one not? You can see all 3 bridges from there [so Ive read], also the Berkeley pier, and SF bay as well and more. Its pretty! Peeps came premeditated for this moment with their lunch, drinks and cameras for selfies. Historically, these big rocks are lava rocks. Indian Tribes would use these rocks to grind acorns and there's evidence of this history of you look closely at them. Some rocks are still pitted due to a lot of grinding. Great place for kids, dogs, and rock climber training [some were doing this too], and those looking for a different kind of playground and some pretty cool selfies. read more

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Sure it's just a rock. Sure parking sucks. Sure it can become a cluster-fragglerock on weekends. But, weather permitting, Indian Rock provides great views of the San Francisco Bay including The Bay Bridge and the Golden Gate Bridge as well as the more famous "rock" aka Alcatraz. Not much to really do here except to climb the rock, check out the view, and GTFO. I mean, unless you enjoy being a photobomber... or you are a voyeur that enjoys checking out other people's property (OPP). There are steps and "depressions" that lead to the top of the rock that were carved into it during the Great Depression. This "rocky road" is a relatively easy climb that should take a normal person about a minute. Despite the steps, I would advise that you have at least a decent pair of shoes or else you might slippity-slide down the rock and that would be such an un-coolio un-fantastic voyage. One more fashion tip, it gets cold, windy, and nippy at the summit, so if you do want to check out the sunrise/sunset, dress appropriately. Now I'm not sure if Indian Rock is dog-friendly, but I took my rescue-doodle up to the top and he climbed it like a BO$$ as if he thought he was a mountain goat. BTW, saw a bunch of other dogs as well. Then again, this is Berkeley where dog-owners DGAF. Thug... ahem dog-life! - 1 Star because seriously, parking is so frustrating. Some interesting "nuggets" about Indian Rock: * Indian Rock was used by members of the Sierra Club as a place to practice rock climbing in the 1950s. * There really were "Indians" (Native Americans) known as the Ohlones that lived in the area. * There is another park a block over known as Mortar Rock Park where the Ohlones used to grind acorns because they were squirrelly like that. Most people don't know about this lesser known park and you may be all "ohlones". read more

Indian Rock Park - My mountain-goat-dog at the top! - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Best place for sunset. Bring your loved ones and some blankets and enjoy the view! The easier route to get to the top is on the left side. read more

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Great view of the bay! The climb up to the top of the rocks is relatively easy, and it is definitely a nice place to enjoy the sunset. It can get crowded during peak sunset hours, but it is worth the view and visit! One can see the Bay Bridge, the Golden Gate, and SF! Nice place to have a picnic; bring some wine, and chillax with friends! :) read more

Indian Rock Park - sunset - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California

This place is awesome. To those who haven't been, it's a giant rock and it totally ROCKS! Okay now that I got that out of the way, this place is really neat. It has steps carved into so its easy to climb up. Make your way there and be rewarded with spectacular views of the bay. This place is also a local favorite for boulderers. You can often see groups taking on the various sides of the rock. Unfortunately at this time, it's closed just to be safe but hopefully soon it will open up again. One day I dream of watching the fireworks from here. Until next time, cheers! read more

Great place to come and see the San Francisco skyline or views of the bay. You can come and sit here for hours and bathe in the sun or if you're feeling adventurous you can climb the granite slab on the northern side of the rock. Many come here and practice their climbing skills and many come and enjoy the views. Whatever your heart desires just please don't be loud and obnoxious as there are houses directly surrounding the park. Located in the border of Berkeley and Albany tucked in the hills you can find this gem but beware the parking is sometimes hard to find so come early or come prepared to walk a few blocks in the neighborhood. Just be respectful and polite to the surrounding area. read more

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Our 2.5 hr hike culminated here yesterday early evening. Staircases galore produced much sweat and awe..spotted a Tesla, Aston Martin, some breathtaking landscaping, and the most sublime, sweeping views of the Bay. Must be nice. Indian Rock sure is!! read more

I can see what all the hype is all about now that I've been to Indian Rock. I walked up Solano and through a cute uphill path off of The Alameda all the way to Indian Rock Park. By the time I got there, I was ready to rest for a bit. However, the Rock was calling me. So I'm not much of a rock climber and therefore was super thankful for the stairs carved into the rock that led me to the top. I was there around 2 pm on a Saturday and there were already a good number of people at the top; taking photos, listening to music, laying out, and definitely enjoying the view. The view up there is seriously AMAZING! You can see from Oakland to San Francisco up there. And since I'd gone on a relatively clear day, I felt like I was on top of a rock in the Sequoia National Park instead of in a residential area of Berkeley! As I sat up there at the top appreciating nature and watching college students take silly music videos, I realized it was a great place to reflect. And being a good Yelper, I made a mental note to share this with everyone as soon as I could upload my pictures. If you've been hesitating, come! If you've been inspired by this review, come! If you want to take some awesome pictures, definitely come! There's street parking or you can take the 18 bus. read more

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BEAUTIFUL VIEW OF THE BAY!! Great place to come to watch the sunset - it's gorgeous! You can see the Bay Bridge and the Golden Gate Bridge if it's not too foggy out. When you drive up the hill, the "rock" is located on your left and there are few parking spots along the residential street that this park is located. I didn't have trouble finding parking though. Climb the steps on the rock and you'll find a large seating area. Pick your spot and enjoy the view! There's a bit of a crowd here during the sunset, but well worth it! The turnover rate of people is pretty quick. People don't usually tend to sit around for a long time. Check this out if you haven't already! (or come back if you already have - can't get enough of that breathtaking view)! read more

Indian Rock Park - Sunset View - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California

Easy to get to (if you don't mind driving through the neighborhoods) and on to for a great view of Berkeley and the bridges~! Park, climb up the rock, and chill. read more

Indian Rock Park - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California

Climbed up here (30 sec climb lol) with my friend to eat our lunch from Cafe M. We wanted to Cheeseboard pizza but they don't serve pizza on Mondays :( It smelled kinda funky up there but at some spots you don't smell it. The view is pretty cool but I think it would look even better at nighttime. Reading other peoples reviews, seems like it's usually packed, but when we went we only saw like 2-3 other people (Monday 2pm). The people we ran into were very kind, asking us how we were and telling us to have a nice day and what not :) TIP: For a cool picture, have your friend take a picture from the bottom of the steps and you at the very tip of the rock. It looks super sick! read more

Indian Rock Park - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California

When I first came here, my friends and I picked up some food from Gregoire and ate it on top of the rock. It was around sunset so the view was extremely pretty. I highly recommend coming around this time! I recently came here with two friends, and we spontaneously decided to be adventurous and not climb up the easy way (stairs). However, we were all not wearing comfortable clothes, carrying purses, and wearing the wrong shoes (rain boots, boots, and small heels), so I don't know wth we were thinking. We pretty much died rock climbing... Little kids were getting up faster and staring at us... but we made it! Our mini adventure made the view much better though because we had to work so hard to see it. This place is far for Berkeley students that don't have cars, but the RFS line (Bear Transit shuttle) will take you to a place nearby! I also watched fireworks here on 4th of July. It gets superrrrrr crowded, and it smells like a combination of weed, bo, and wine/beer/alcohol. 23042304234 people on the rock and 23942304 people around the rock. You get to see some fireworks at various locations, but because most of them are far away, they're pretty small... The closest fireworks are the ones from Berkeley Marina. I don't think I'll come back here for fireworks because I would rather watch fireworks from the bottom up. read more

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Great view to watch the sunset and see a beautiful view of the bay area. Honestly, it's a hot spot for peeps on dates who wanna "cupcake". Once you get past that, it's a good spot for rock climber enthusiasts like my husband. He now be "cupcakin" rocks. read more

Indian Rock Park - photo by Scott Fong - www.scottfongphoto.com - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California

nice place to see the view of the city and catching the sunset. lots of people climb the rocks and try to become the witnesses that sunset is the time for resetting our life... read more

Indian Rock Park - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Very cool spot. If your in the area I would highly recommend stopping. It did seem a bit dangerous for young kids or older folks. On a clear day or evening great views and outstanding sunsets. Plenty of parking nearby. Romantic spot too! read more

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One of my go to spots whenever friends or family are in town. This is honestly one of my favorite places in all of the East Bay for the views and novelty. Sitting atop of Indian Rock immediately takes you out of the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area and gives you a place to stop, reflect, and just breathe. Everyone up there is usually chill and respectful too, which is nice. It's a super short hike up the side to get to the top. Definitely done recommend wearing anything with a heel though. Parking can be kind of tough in this area. read more

On the smaller side compared to the nearby parks. But it makes up for it in views. Just looking at the rock alone brings awe and a huge bonus is being able to walk up and relax on it. The only downside is peering into people's yards below. Also make sure to be careful when going up or down the rock as there are no bars to grab. Besides that, this is a nice little viewpoint! read more

Indian Rock Park - Stairs leading up the rock. - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California

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Not really a park :) but worth a visit for sure. Evillians, Berkelians (if thats a word), or any east bay person you can view the complete bay bridge, bay and the golden gate! Check the photo i posted. Amazing place for that first date or to surprise your bae on 10th date :D Its not much of a hike, not a hike really! in just 30 seconds you will be up on the rock. Just make sure you have a torch when you are there in the dark. read more

Indian Rock Park - View from India rock - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California