Discovering the Hidden Gem: Lake Merced is located in San Francisco.
The cities that tourists will be able to visit are lake merced san francisco with such attractions as Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and Fisherman’s Wharf. However, nestled in the southwestern part of the city lies an often overlooked but equally captivating destination: Lake Merced was the name given to the lake located in San Mateo County in the state of California, United States. It is the perfect natural get-away from the noises and stresses of the city and perfect for those who love nature and outdoor activities or families. Being a historical place, natural area with a variety of ecosystems, and the opportunity for many recreational activities, Lake Merced should not remain a secret.
The History of Lake Merced
The history of Lake Merced can be traced back in the early history of San Francisco. Originally known as “Laguna de Nuestra Señora de la Merced” by the Spanish explorers in the last quarter of the 18th century, the lake has contributed to the growth of the city. During the mid part of the century it was an important source of fresh water to the fast growing city of San Francisco.
Over time, the appearance of Lake Merced has changed and the lake has experienced many issues such as water shortages, water pollution and threats of development on its shores. Nevertheless, it has remained a popular natural attraction to this date due to the various conservation campaigns and support from people.
And the Natural Beauty of Lake Merced
Another aspect of the lake that can be said to be outstanding is the fact that it is natural. It measures, roughly, 614 acres and is bordered by forested land, hills, and walking paths. The area is divided into three main sections: These are North Lake, South Lake and East Lake; all these three lakes are beautiful but offer different attractions.
The lake Merced is surrounded by calm water that offers a background for many activities that are carried out both in and around the water. The lake has a variety of wildlife; there are many birds, fish among other creatures that inhabit this lake. Bird enthusiasts will also enjoy the place because it is home to migratory birds and other birds like the ducks, herons, and the egrets.
Recreation Facilities at Lake Merced
Lake Merced is a perfect place for recreation and there are many activities for children and adults. No matter if you are just planning to spend a leisure time near the water body or you are seeking for an adrenaline rush on the outdoors, there is something for everyone.
Boating and Fishing
The lake Merced is suitable for boating and fishing since the waters are quite and free from turbulence. This place has the provision for renting boats such as rowboats, pedal boats and kayaks from the boathouse situated near the lake. For those who would rather fish, Lake Merced has different fish such as trout, bass, and catfish fry released in the lake. Fishermen can fish from the rocks or in a boat and spend some time fishing without any disturbances.
Hiking and Biking
The trails around Lake Merced can be considered as some of the best hiking and biking terrains. One of the most preferred trail is the Lake Merced Loop Trail which is a 4. 5 mile trail that encircles the lake. The trail is not very steep and thus accommodates walkers, joggers and cyclists with different levels of disability. While on the trail, you are able to view the lake and the surrounding scenery in a near perfect view.
The lake Merced is surrounded by a calm water body that provides environment for many activities that occur on water as well as on the surrounding land. The lake has diverse wildlife; there are a lot of birds, fish, among other animals that prefer this lake. Bird lovers will also appreciate the place since the place is a breeding ground for migratory birds as well as other types of water birds including ducks, herons, and the egrets.
Facilities for Recreation in Lake Merced
Merced is a great place for recreation and there are lots of things that children and adults can do. Whether it is just to relax at the water body or if you want an adventurous option in the outdoors there is something for all.
Boating and Fishing
One can also go boating and fishing in the lake Merced since the water is calm and not choppy. This place has the provision of hiring boats like row boats, paddle boats and kayaks from the boathouse located at the shores of the lake. For those who would rather fish, different fish including trout, bass, and catfish fry are found to have been released in the lake. One can catch fish from the rocks or in a boat and can spend some time fishing without the interference of other people.
Hiking and Biking
Thus, the surrounding of Lake Merced can be referred to as some of the best hiking and biking trails. One of the most preferred trail is the Lake Merced Loop Trail which is a 4. 5 mile trail that is surrounding the lake. The trail is not very steep and thus everyone from the walkers, joggers and cyclists with different disability levels can be allowed on the trail. On the trail it is possible to get a nearly perfect view of the lake as well as the surrounding area.
Seasonal Events and Community Activities
Year-round, there are different seasonal events, and community activities that take place around the lake particularly the scenic Lake Merced. Such events include the nature trails, bird watching, fishing competitions, and family oriented functions. Engaging in such activities is a good way to get to know people in the area, get acquainted with the history of the lake and its environment, and go in for physical activity.
The Lake Merced Wildlife Festival is perhaps one of the most famous events and occurs in spring in most of the years. The festival includes demonstrations, live animal shows, and many activities to which children can participate. It is a good chance to enrich the knowledge about the types of animals living in the lake and find out how one can contribute to the preservation of the species.
Lake Merced of the Future
As for the further development, the future of Lake Merced seems to be rather promising, as there are still many construction projects and plans for the improvement of the area and its attractiveness for tourists and recreation lovers. Specifically, the local authorities and community organizations have been trying to solve environmental issues, enhance the quality of water sources, and reclaim native ecosystems.
One of the main strategies is the Lake Merced Watershed Improvement Project which aims at; water quality improvement, stormwater management and sustainable land use. These efforts are crucial in order to keep on maintaining the Lake Merced as a productive ecosystem and an enjoyable recreational place in the future.
Seasonal Occasions and Other Public Functions
All year round there are various seasons and community activities that are conducted near the lake especially the beautiful Lake Merced. These are functions like the nature trails, bird watching, fishing competition, and any other function that may involve families. Such activities are useful to learn people in the area, to know more about the lake and the surrounding and to exercise.
The Lake Merced Wildlife Festival is definitely one of the most recognized events, and it usually takes place in spring in most of the years. There are demonstrations, live animal shows and many activities which are involved and to which children can contribute. It is a good opportunity to expand the information about the kinds of animals dwelling in the lake and learn how a person can help protect them.
Lake Merced of the Future
Concerning the further development, the future of Lake Merced appears to be quite bright as there are still many construction plans and projects for the development of the region and the promotion of the area as the tourists’ and recreation seekers’ attraction. In particular, the local authorities and the community-based organisations have been attempting to address the environmental problems, improve the quality of the water supply and the native habitats.
Among the strategies is the proposed Lake Merced Watershed Improvement Project whose objective is; water quality enhancement, storm water control and management and land use. These are important in order to continue to preserve and enhance the Lake Merced as a productiveness and recreation in the future.