In honor of both national poetry and earth month, we decided it’s only fitting that we highlight a park that proudly commemorates both. Tucked away in the inclined Russian Hill neighborhood lies the impeccably scenic Ina Coolbrith Park.
Perfectly tucked away, this elevated park is one steep climb, but once you reach its panoramic summit, you’ll immediately see how rewarding the cardio is.
Subtly sitting between the streets of Mason and Taylor, this 0.8 mile park is tiny but mighty, especially with its premiere view.
Ascending its winding cobblestone steps, you first notice all the beautifully healthy foliage adoring the entrance all the way up. Then it hits you. Turn around and you will experience the awe-inspiring sweeping skyline that includes Chinatown, Coit Tower, and Alcatraz on the left, transitioning to the Bay Bridge, and then Financial District’s outstanding high rises on the right.
The architectural feat of the Transamerica Pyramid appears to be just within arm’s reach, making this hideaway a popular photo spot for those willing to accomplish the short workout up.
That’s not the only aspect this magnificent park offers, as you might be accompanied by a few sweet and chatty avine friends. The notorious Telegraph Hill parrots are known to flock over at this altitude, providing some pleasant ambience and vibrant photo moments if you’re lucky enough.
The name of this bucolic escape is dedicated to one of early America’s most prolific poets, Ina Donna Coolbrith (1841-1928). Coolbrith was integral to American poetry as well as San Francisco’s literary scene, as she was California's first ever poet laureate.
Rubbing elbows with her contemporaries Mark Twain, Jack London, and Isadora Duncan, she was highly regarded around San Francisco, with the park being named after her in 1911. Much of her work was inspired by the city, her heartfelt admiration evident in her 1906 work “San Francisco” with, “Fair City of my love and desire.”
To take in all the panoramic shots of this park, prepare to stretch properly for your steep hike up. Otherwise, the Powell-Mason Cable Car can take you to the nearby intersection of Mason and Vallejo. Buses 41 and 45 also drop at Union and Taylor, the 10 and 12 at Pacific and Taylor, and there is parking available on Taylor Street to ease your trip.
There is wheelchair access, and leashed dogs are allowed to visit as well. Taking the short, but rigorous journey to this wonderfully tucked away park is a fantastic way to appreciate the city while also commemorating an early pioneering woman of the literary arts.
