Walking in Diamond Heights is not hampered by San Francisco's infamous fog as often as lower coastal regions, however, it is not immune to wet winters so a coat may be necessary. The temperatures, however, are relatively temperate, even in winter, and cold weather is not usually a factor. Because of the elevation of the community, cool breezes from the ocean provide respite to pedestrians on hot summer days which makes walking more pleasant.
Diamond Heights is bordered by Diamond Heights Boulevard, a busy thoroughfare to the north, and Glen Canyon Park to the south. The terrain here is very hilly so pedestrians and their puppy pals will need to be in good shape to walk around the neighborhood, although the roads in the region curve to follow the natural terrain and cut across slopes making inclines easier to navigate.
This region was one of the last areas of San Francisco to be developed and most buildings and homes in the area date to the 1950s and 1960s. Homes in the area feature Modernist architecture with angles, glass, exposed beams, and courtyards. Similar to much of San Francisco, hillside homes are densely packed with little street frontage while landscaping and outdoor features tend to be located behind dwellings. There are some large natural areas around Diamond Hills that are visible from nearby homes and provide natural scenery to residents.
Glen Canyon Park occupies 70 acres of which 63 are designated as a protected natural habitat. The terrain is rugged and steep and a creek and natural grasslands provide a home to birds and wildlife that depend on these resources.
Hiking trails provide spectacular views although they can be inaccessible to hikers with limited mobility. Recreational facilities are located on the west end of the park and include a recreation center, ball diamonds, tennis courts, and a playground. There is also a ropes course used by local climbers to hone their skills. This park is a great greenway opportunity for Diamond Heights residents to enjoy with their dogs, providing they keep their dogs leashed to protect natural habitat and wildlife.
Billy Goat Hill is located on the eastern side of Diamond Heights. This trail navigates some steep terrain with switchbacks that take hikers to a viewpoint overlooking the surrounding neighborhoods and Glen Canyon Park.