The top of this place has the best view of the bay I've seen so far. You can see two bridges, Alcatraz, San Francisco, Treasure Island, and just about anything else you can think of! I imagine it would be gorgeous around sunrise/sunset. For some reason, I thought I would have to hike to get up there. Not so! you can park and climb up the stairs (the easy way) in about 90 seconds flat. If that. There are steeper ways you could try to climb if you have the right footwear (I was ill-equipped). My advice would be to bring a picnic or someone special, climb the rock and enjoy it for what it is- a nice view. Make sure you have something planned for afterward though - if you're like us you'll be ready to go in 20 minutes. read more

We didn't take one picture, and I couldn't care less. While everyone was busy posing and trying to get shots, we just sat on the PERFECT little rock bench at the very top of Indian Rock and watched the sun drop into the ocean. The view was like none that I have ever seen before, and I have traveled to China, Mexico, Italy and through much of the US. There was an energy up on that rock...a magnetic, happy, blissful, peaceful energy that I will never forget. An experience of a lifetime. Super grateful. I would bring a blanket and some wine if I were to go again. Actually not if....I AM going again. It was that good! read more

Escape here. This place is good for dates, climbs and parking practice. read more

SF may have Twin Peaks, Berkeley has Indian Rock. One of the few places perfect for sunsets, late nights, star gazing, making out... I went here at night on the eve of 4th of July. It was perfect and we got to see some test run fireworks from all over the Bay. Wear your sneakers, bring lots of flashlights and warm clothes. You'll have to do some hiking and climbing to get to the top but the view is worth it all. Indian Rock is in the middle of a residential area so please be kind and don't disturb the neighbors. read more

One of Berkeley's best kept secrets! Come here on a beautiful, clear day! What the RAs in the dorms should do, is have this as an outing for college freshman! I didn't find out about until spring semester Junior year! I highly recommend buying food and then climb up the rocks and enjoy your lunch! The only downer is that you'll have to ask someone for a car or drive you car to this place. It's picturesque and has a gorgeous view! read more

Wow what a gem! Apparently this place is one of the best places to spot for those interested in bouldering. For the view enthusiasts, there are plenty of steps engraved in the rocks that take you up for what is a magnificent view of the bay area. You can see everything from the city to the marina! Too bad the fog decided to roll in the moment we decided to go otherwise I would have enjoyed this place much more! Very nice mini-getaway spot! :) read more

Indian Rock Park - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California

Take a picnic up here, sip on some sparkling wine, soak in the view of the bay - yeahhhh that's right, you're living the good life. I went here with my fiance and my 2 dogs to watch the sunset and eat some dinner. We hiked up the side of the big rock, setup a small picnic and sat back to enjoy life. We were surrounded by a diverse group of friendly people doing much of the same. There were 2 Berkeley students in the midst of finals grubbing on the In-N-Out. A Canadian guy behind us talking about orgy parties. Some families with kids all enjoying a lovely moment together watching the sun go down over this awesome awesome place we call home. read more

This is a great park! Make lots of noise! Lots and lots of noise! And let your dogs run around without leashes on! There's a neighbor who has been trying to get the park shut down through the city because he's sick of the noise and cars parking on his street. I mean REALLY!!!!!! The park was there when he moved in, but he thinks because he owns a bunch of property up in the hills and has a ton of money that he can just waltz down to the City and shut down Indian Rock Park! Puhleeeeeese read more

I went to see the view from here, and although the view was a little foggy, you got to see 3 different cities at once sitting on a rock. What amuses me is that the steps looked like they were carved into the rock, kinda cool. I was actually really scared to climb up the rock, but I"m glad that I had someone there to hold my hand :) Perfect for quick grub and a nice sunset view. Nothing fancy, but still worth it. read more

I've come here a handful of times and each time, I am less impressed than the last. The view of the bay from here is decent, but the city is really far away. If you're looking for a nice cityscape, or looking to snap a nice photo, you're better off going somewhere else. Getting here by car is trivia. Type in Indian Rock in Google Maps, drive through some neighborhoods in the hills and you're there. To get to the top of Indian Rock is just as trivial: you climb at most 50 steps to the top of the rock. Street parking is never an issue which is nice. If you come here at night and intend to stay more than 5 minutes, I would highly recommend dressing warm. It gets pretty windy up here. read more

Fun place for a date picnic, or just to read a book. I've had bad experience with rocks, so I'm not fond of it, but otherwise, a small gem of Berkeley, perfect perfect perfect for sunset watching. I feel sorry for all the residents in this area who gets so many passerbys just watching everything they do. I like the uniqueness of this rock, maybe it means something? Idk for sure, but unless I'm taking someone around berkeley for the first time, I'm not coming back here. Plus I need a GPS to get out because I get lost in the neighborhoods. Haha. Come here on a summer day, bring a sandwich and book, have a picnic, don't go by yourself or do go by yourself, w/e your cup of tea is. All the photographers love this place. Don't bring small kids here, it's just not that safe. Great place to exercise and do yoga or taichi. read more

Hmm this was not quite what I expected but I should have heeded my friend's warning that it would not take all day to visit this place. It literally takes less than a minute to get to the top and there is no hike whatsoever. It is in the middle of a residential area which is pretty cool and there is plenty of street parking. The rock isnt very high and there is a man-made staircase to get to the top. It was cloudy and gloomy that day so I didnt see an awesome view but I guess it is quaint in its own way since there is a rock park among houses. Since I was only back in Berkeley for a day, I wanted to hit up this spot as well as Tilden Park and thank goodness I went here first. If i came here last, this would have been quite a letdown. I would say visit here once but it is probably not a crazy fun place to chill all day. read more

Indian Rock Park - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California

Fun times all the time, rain or sun. Great views almost always even when SF is a bit covered in fog. Climbing up to the top and surveying the land is a unique local experience. Try to clean up people! Too many times I've seen trash and used cigs around. read more

Indian Rock is the first place that I ever climbed outdoors. It's a classic Bay Area spot for climbing and a well known park with a spectacular view of the bay. When you're on the street, go down the steps to the right and you'll find yourself in the pit. There's usually always a few climbers here, but not too busy, and you can always ask the locals for routes and beta. The problems are a little high ball for me with some committing moves and sketchy landings so be sure to bring a pad or two and have a spotter. Or you can just traverse across the whole rock, which has some cool move sequences. If you ever get bored of the problems or just want a few more to work on, you can always head up the street to Mortar Rock. Tons of people will show up to watch the sunset, so go crush a few problems and then reward yourself with the awesome view! read more

Super pretty views! ThE stairs were definitely helpful, and it's a super accessible and easy climb up. I went during sunset, and the view of the bay was definitely picture perfect. My only comment would be that it seems to be a place that a lot of middle and high schoolers hang out. This is not an issue by itself, but they tend to leave wrappers/other trash behind, messing with a really nice park. read more

Literally a few big rocks to climb and explore. Luckily, there are some steps to make the trek to the top a bit easier. I saw some people wear sandals, but I would recommend wearing closed-toes grippy shoes. The view itself is just ohhhkay. It was peaceful, but it definitely doesn't beat Grizzly Peak or Big C.. however, considering it only takes 5 minutes tops to get to the peak, the pay off is definitely well worth it for minimal effort. Overall it's a cool place to relax, look out into the horizon, enjoy a quick snack (perhaps not a 'picnic' because there is very limited seating room on the top), and just getaway from the hustle bustle of Berkeley. Definitely recommend for a date ;) and definitely a bucket list item for anyone at Berkeley. read more

One of the best things about Berkeley is that it is close to nature. You can drive to Tilden Park, or drive out to the coastline. But Berkeley has, within its city limits, various wonderful locations for those who just want a demitasse of nature instead of a cup. I would love to sit at the International House Cafe at the top of Bancroft Avenue and look down at the sun glistening on the Bay, or hike the fire trails above Memorial Stadium. For an experience that is equal parts reflective and surreal, however, nothing beats climbing up Indian Rock. For one, this rock seems to be in the middle of nowhere--it juts up among regular homes and streets. And the climb up is precarious, just narrow steps hewn from the rock itself. Up, up, up--groping in the dark, loose gravel. The wind and cold. Drunk people hopping from ledge to ledge. But once you get up to the top and find a perch: what a feeling! Looking out over trees and homes and land and water. A place to go for quiet thought, tranquility, and solitude. A little bit of nature in the middle of the city. read more

This place rocks! (Pun intended). A little crowded but only because it's such an incredible view; definitely enough to go around and share with all. Not a hike more like a rock to climb then enjoy beautiful views (especially sunsets). read more

Indian Rock Park - Stairway to heaven. You can use the stairs or be a little more adventurous and climb it out. - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California

There's the Golden gate, and downtown oakland....and oh! the city...you know mt tam is the highest point in the area? well there it is. There's alameda... and so on... I've heard this about 5 or 6 times in two visits to the park. Just take in the beauty without the commentary... good place to climb with some sheer faces, and coves. -1 for barking dogs and their barking owner at the house just below the rock. -1 for carved stairs (WTF??) +1 for good outdoor qwikies! +1 for hope that the park will be expanded--there's so much exposed rock on people's property...ridiculous that it isn't a public space, 'cause rock parks rock. read more

Amazing views and really easy to access. Just park on the side of the road and enjoy a gorgeous view. Perfect for young children who want to climb. I was amazed that the view was so beautiful and very easy to get to for a young adult. Watch out for marijuana smokers who also want to enjoy the view. read more

Indian Rock Park - Pretty views from the top. Great for an afternoon! - Parks Near Me - Berkeley, California

Has one of the nicest view out of most of the parks around. A nice place to go if you want to hang out at night. Brings back a lot of memories.. read more

A hidden jewel of berkeley. Perfect for bringing some friends to hang out with takeout lunch, or cuddling with your boo on a warm summer night. I usually order a box of Cheeseboard pizza w/ a 2 liter from safeway, and have a nice view of the bay on a clear warm afternoon with friends. It gets a little awkward when there's that one couple playing tonsil hockey right behind you, but most of the time, couples will keep there hormonal levels under control when you join them for the view. I've also seen some rock climbers practicing on the north side of the boulders, which if your into might be a fun thing to do. read more

I tend to forget about this random, gigantic rock outcropping in north Berkeley. It affords gorgeous views of San Francisco, the Bay, Berkeley, Oakland, the Golden Gate Bridge, Mt. Tam, etc... It's a serene, contemplative spot where you can unwind, decompress, breathe, gain perspective, and remember how lucky we are to live amidst such beautiful surroundings. It's also a perfect spot to soak in the sun and work on the tan. PS: for the more non-adventurous, "I'm-not-going-up-there" types like me, look for the steps built into the rock. read more

The best view in the Bay Area period. You can see all the way from Oakland to the Carquinez bridge. This is a great date spot - I was brought here on a semi date. We didn't last, but I'm thankful for the gift that is this breathtaking view. Note - Be prepared to climb up the massive rock so leave the skirt and flip flops at home. read more

I once walked up Indian Rock barefoot. That was a bad idea. But the view at the top is not. Come up with a bottle of wine and a loved one and enjoy the sunset. Or a group of rowdy friends and a handle of Jack and try not to fall off the big rock. Just wear shoes. read more

As a LA girl, I was looking for something new to bring my boyfriend to for his birthday. I found this via Yelp, (thanks Yelp! :) ) and it was amazing! It was easy to find and the way up to the top was easy to get up. &the view is spectacular! We went on a clear day and we could see the entire city. It definitely made his birthday even more memorable :) read more

Went there after my sister suggested it. Also I had read some previous reviews before going so as to know what to expect. I must say this was a pretty scenic spot and the small climb to the highest spot was worth it. Even though we went on a chilly day it seemed peaceful to be there. On a sunny day it would be a perfect spot to get your sandwich and drink and enjoy it right at the top. read more

I love this place. It's fun to come with friends chill and eat food or whatever. Always a good time. Cool for little kids, too. I guess just don't wear high heels, that could be uncomfortable. And you may want to bring a jacket, it always gets cold. Additionally, you may want to watch out for the inconsiderate 40-something year olds who come and SMOKE WEED occasionally in front of large families full of small, impressionable children. But whatevs. read more

In the early 70's, my father, as a teenager, climbed Indian Rock with a friend thinking to expand their minds. They brewed a tea from peyote buttons while looking at the gorgeous view. Under the majestic glow of the setting sun, my father vomited all over Indian Rock. Many years later, In the early 2000's, I too threw up on Indian Rock... countless times, actually. My two brothers, too, have painted their shoes on Indian Rock. In fact, I'm sure if I ever have children, they too will probably get wasted and puke on Indian Rock... Somehow I can't think of Indian Rock as a romantic place, but regardless of all the puke that has, and will, happen on this rock.... it still has a beautiful view. read more

So fun! And the location is very random. It's in a neighborhood. Although I wouldn't recommend it for kids that need a leash :) or are younger than 8/9. It's old school fun/rock "climbing" - you have the possibility of getting hurt. My 10 year old had a blast but, to be perfectly honest, our hearts stopped once or twice. read more

My friend Fiona took me here with some friends after a VERY FILLING BRUNCH. We hadn't seen each other in awhile, and this is a great place to soak up the sun's rays and catch up. There's an adorable step for the water fountain at the base, and a number of other groups were sitting on the rock eating lunch. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the view as well! I'd love to come by more if I lived in the area! :) read more

This place gives a pretty nice view of the bay, although the city is quite a ways off. Unless you have a camera that can take a lot of zoom, you probably won't be able to capture this place very nicely. Anyway, there are also some rocks to climb which is pretty fun. There's no parking except for street parking (on slopes) though. You don't need a lot of time to see this place, and while I wouldn't go out of my way to visit this spot, it is a nice place to stop by if you're in the area. read more

Cute place to go hiking on a date or with family, especially in the spring/summer! The weather is beautiful and the view is breathtaking if you just climb to the top and chill there for a while in the sun. It is not very crowded (at least not the weekend that I went), so I could definitely see it being a good place to have a picnic for lunch or something. It's located in a nice neighborhood up north of Berkeley and is slightly hard to find, but just follow the signs and it should be ok! I really liked the cute stairs they made out of the rocks to help people on the way up. read more

The rock gives you good views of the Marin headlands, GG bridge, SF, and Oakland. On a clear day (especially right after a good rain) you can see down to the San Mateo bridge. The trail from Solano Ave (where it meets The Alameda) to Indian Rock is a really convenient; park down there and do a quick hike up to the rock for sunset, then back down to dinner at one of the many restaurants on Solano (I like Ajanta http://www.yelp.com/biz/f-kmtiP7cQHgY-xHL45VFw). read more

Best park in Berkeley. Puts it all in perspective, I'll tell you what. I've been working on a spot that I cannot climb at this place since '98... Keep it clean and quiet people! read more

for such a small it packs a punch. Great view of the bay, cool sunset location. I would go 20 minutes out of my way to sit at this spot for 5 minutes. good date picnic location. its hard not to give clean free parks with breathtaking views 5 stars read more

I love this place. Its nice and secluded, the view is amazing, and it was a great "vibe". I love coming here to think and relax. read more

Summary based on many visits over years: --Secluded --Great view --Ok parking One of those great, fairly unique Berkeley resources read more

This is a really cute rock formation for anyone to just sit and watch the sun set over the whole bay. It's kind of in a residential area and only has street parking. There's a nice little stone staircase etched into the stone so you don't slip and die. Still be careful though because there aren't any rails. read more

I visited this place for the first time last year with my cousin who is a native of CA. And, I loved it. Like everyone has mentioned before the steps on the rock are steep, so becareful when climbing it. Wear comfortable sneakers, but besides all of that getting to the top to see that beautiful view is worth it. read more