The park features a regional botanical garden that is the oldest in California dedicated solely to native plants.
The Tilden merry-go-round is a designated historic landmark, built in 1911 and relocated here in 1948.
Lake Anza was formed by damming a local creek and serves as a significant stopover for migratory birds.
The park's Steam Train operates on a 15-inch gauge railway, one of the few of its kind in the Western United States.
Tilden Park is home to the last surviving stands of coast redwoods in the Berkeley Hills.
The Little Farm allows visitors to feed specific produce to farm animals under park staff supervision.
Tilden Regional Park spans over 2,000 acres in the Berkeley Hills, offering diverse ecosystems ranging from redwood forests to grasslands. The park serves as a central hub for the East Bay Regional Park District, featuring the 1937 Little Farm and an antique merry-go-round. Visitors can access the 130-acre Lake Anza for seasonal swimming and the Botanic Garden, which exclusively displays California native plants. The park contains over 39 miles of trails, including segments connecting to the larger Regional Trail system. Notable features include the Tilden Steam Train, which operates on a miniature gauge track through the forest canopy. Geological diversity is represented by several active fault traces and varied volcanic rock formations throughout the canyon. High-elevation points provide expansive views of the San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Mount Tamalpais.
Inspiration Point at sunset for panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay and the reservoir.
Bring layers, as the elevation causes temperatures to drop significantly compared to the surrounding Bay Area cities.
Download offline maps before arrival, as cellular reception is inconsistent throughout the deep canyons.
Visit the Botanic Garden during late spring to witness the peak bloom of rare, endemic California wildflowers.
Feeding wildlife, which is strictly prohibited and harmful to the animals, and parking on dry grass during high fire-risk months.
The Steam Train and merry-go-round operate on limited schedules, typically closed on weekdays during non-holiday periods; Lake Anza swimming is seasonal.
Leash dogs in designated areas, stay on marked trails to protect local habitats, and pack out all trash.
