I did myself a favor and started purchasing yearly parking passes for the reservoir, so I don't have to deal with the parking meters anymore. The Lafayette Reservoir is one of the most peaceful places I have ever been. Love it here. read more

Lafayette Reservoir is a beautiful local park! And there is so much parking and bathrooms with toilet paper and soap! That's honestly way more than I was expecting. The parking lot we parked in had a max 2 hour limit, which isn't enough time to walk the entire perimeter of the reservoir but it looks like there are other lots that don't have as much time restrictions. Beautiful little walk - not much of a hike because of the paved path, but it's a nice distance and has beautiful views. We would definitely come back again. read more

Lafayette Reservoir - Parks Near Me - Lafayette, California

The Lafayette Reservoir is the perfect place for a family walk or hike, especially with dogs! There's lots of shady areas around and benches along the trail to stop if you need. Parking is easy to find and pay for, and is cheap ($4 for 2 hours on weekdays). There's multiple bathrooms along the trail too. We've been coming here for years and always come back to it. If you're looking for a great hike to go on with family, friends, and pups, check out the Reservoir! read more

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Lafayette Reservoir was introduced to me by a girlfriend years ago, and it became our meeting place for a weekly walking date. The trail that follows the perimeter of the reservoir is about 3 miles, an easy, paved, mostly flat walk. There are more challenging trails off the main path if you're so inclined (get it, inclined...?...I'm here all week). A lot of cute dogs to see on the trail, as well as other critters around the park at times, including wild turkeys who think they own the place, and adorable goats which are sometimes brought in to 'mow' the grass. Watching the animals is one of my favorite parts of visiting this place. The sun is often blazing during the warmer months, and much of the area is unshaded, so setting out earlier in the morning is a good idea, and sunscreen and a sun hat are a must. Protect your skin folks, you'll be glad you did. There are multiple picnic areas that can be rented out, and we've had a lovely time celebrating several special occasions here with friends. I've never been out on the water itself, but you can fish here, or rent a paddle boat to go out on. A nice outdoor recreation destination in Contra Costa Co, and a welcome reprieve from daily urban life. read more

Lafayette Reservoir - Morning walk around the reservoir - Parks Near Me - Lafayette, California

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It's a great place. I just wish people had the decency to pick up after their dogs. As a dog owner myself I'm often times disgusted and disappointed when I see dog on ruining this beautiful trail. ‍ read more

Began our Memorial Day weekend with a walk around Lafayette Reservoir and it was a great way to start the day! Arrived early and easily got parking though by the time we had completed the loop, the lot was full! Parking was just $4. Beautiful views and lots of different hikes, we did the basic loop which appears to be about 2.5 miles and it's pretty, shaded and an easy walk! Beautiful views in every direction! Well worth a visit for beautiful views and a lovely walking trail! read more

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While coordinating an activity with friends who live in Pleasant Hill, Oakland, and San Ramon, we settled on meeting up here for the 3 mile loop and brunch nearby. In addition to the paved walking trail, there are facilities for fishing, boating, picnicking and a playground. I remember this being an easy loop walk the last time I was there 10+ years ago, and it definitely has some incline so it's not a walk that I would recommend without proper athletic shoes. The parking meters were out of order the day we met up. There are two options- metered and day passes. read more

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Beautiful spot for hiking in the Bay Area. Plenty of parking, lovely views of the hills and reservoir and well manicured trails - both dirt and concrete. Saw lots of dogs having fun enjoying their walks too. Also noticed several resting stations like benches and spots to picnic. Well worth the visit. read more

Love this park but I really love the staff at the boating dock. Very friendly and helpful, especially Ben! read more

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I have been coming here for years and it's my favorite place for dog walking . I've never been on the upper rim but the one on the bottom is 3 miles long and it's the perfect mix of inclines and flat surfaces which all make for a great workout . They have annual parking passes if you come a lot or you can just pay for a couple of hours for $4. They also have a playground for children and benches with bathrooms and water fountains spread across to take breaks if need be. Highly recommend coming here with your pup or even a friend to get your steps in. read more

Lafayette Reservoir - Parks Near Me - Lafayette, California

I was in awe of this place! The reservoir is a nice walking trail around and about. Cant believe how breathtaking it is - especially the water - go out and exercise. read more

I love coming here to walk around the reservoir. There is a wonderful paved path that is easy to walk and about 3 miles. If you are feeling more ambitious there is a hiking trail that goes along all the ridges surrounding the reservoir and it's a butt kicker! I have also brought my canoe here and gone from dock to dock all around the reservoir, it's very fun and relaxing, I think they rent out paddle boats too. There is no swimming in the reservoir though. Overall a great spot to visit for an easy day outside. I think parking is like $6 read more

Clockwise, counterclockwise - take your pick. Inner rim 2.7miles tarmac Moderate hills/slops. Outer rim 4.7miles dirt/gravel considerably steeper. Bathrooms every mile or so. Ample parking - 1 hour max Annual pass available. Park I. Town and add an extra mile and a steep climb to get your cardio going. Mobility friendly. Dawn to dusk. Specific days for bikes. Dogs on leash. read more

Lafayette Reservoir - Inner rim - Parks Near Me - Lafayette, California

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Great walk around the reservoir, the trail has lots of shade, a good mix of shad and sun. The trail is in good condition except for the side walk from the picnic ground (the one to the right) to the dam. The side walk along the road is jacked up, they really need to fix it soon before someone gets hurt. read more

This is definitely the place to be in Lafayette, especially on the weekends!! I finally had the chance to run around the reservoir on the Lakeside Nature Trail, a 2.7 mile loop on a paved trail with rolling hills. Lots of people come here for many reasons!! The kids playground seems very popular for the youngsters. You will also see plenty of people fishing all around this reservoir, seems like many have their spots picked out. The Rim Trail is the upper trail and is much longer than the Nature Trail, and there are multiple trails that lead there. Parking here is usually a thing, most people opt for the hourly parking, so make sure you bring coins if you're going that route. Only quarters are acceptable in the machine!! You can tell this is the place people go to get their exercise in and enjoy the outdoors, and it gets really hot here in the summer time!! There are plenty of restrooms and places to sit all along the Lakeside Trail. There were many spots along the trail that reminded me of Lake Chabot in Castro Valley!! Lots to like about this place!! read more

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Lafayette Reservoir is a must for locals. Great way to get some steps in while enjoying the beauty of the reservoir. Dogs love it too and there are tons of opportunities to go off the main paved path and hike some gorgeous trails. As a Lamorinda native, I can't imagine not having the reservoir in my backyard. read more

We walked a little over a mile from downtown Lafayette to the reservoir and skipped the paid parking lot. The area was busy with a lot of walkers and dogs on a Saturday morning at 9am. We took the Lakeside Nature Trail, with a 2.7 mile loop around the reservoir. You'll see additional trails along the way, if you'd like to to extend your hike. You'll find a great workout here with varying incline and decline levels. Restrooms, benches, and picnic areas are available, along with great views. Petal boats can also be rented, and I'm tempted to try those on a cooler day. I noticed water stations and bowls for dogs if you forget to bring your own. Also, a fishing spot, they even had a cleaning station. I'll definitely add this to my list on my return visits to Lafayette. Headed back into downtown Lafayette, I grabbed a cold pressed juice and salad at Diablo Market. read more

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One of my favorite spots these days, been up on this location for 30 years easy. If you're looking for a breathtaking escape just a stone's throw from the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area, Lafayette Reservoir is the ultimate retreat. This place is a dazzling jewel where nature, recreation, and relaxation meet in perfect harmony. After spending a blissful day here, I can confidently give it a glowing five stars. From the moment you arrive, you're greeted by an expansive oasis surrounded by lush, towering trees that seem to whisper secrets of serenity. The reservoir itself glistens under the sunlight like liquid glass, reflecting the verdant beauty of its surroundings. It's the perfect spot for anyone craving a mix of tranquility and adventure. Ah, the boats! Renting a paddleboat or rowboat here is an absolute must. Gliding across the reservoir's calm waters feels like you've stepped into a postcard. Each gentle stroke of the paddle brings you closer to nature. I personally appreciate nature much more in recent years. If you're a local or plan to visit frequently, the Glass Pass is your golden ticket. This annual pass is a no-brainer for access to everything this reservoir has to offer. It lets you bypass daily fees, and trust me, once you visit, you'll want to come back again and again. Whether you're here for a brisk morning jog, an afternoon picnic, or a twilight stroll, the pass pays for itself in no time. For the hikers, runners, and casual strollers, the Lafayette Reservoir's paved trail is a dream. It's a 2.7-mile loop around the water with just the right amount of elevation to get your heart pumping while still enjoying the views. If you're feeling adventurous, the Rim Trail offers a longer and more challenging hike with spectacular vistas that reward your effort tenfold. Every step feels like a meditation, surrounded by towering pines, oaks, and eucalyptus trees. The reservoir caters to everyone. There are plenty of shaded picnic areas equipped with tables and BBQ pits, perfect for family gatherings or quiet lunches with a view. For anglers, the fishing here is a hidden delight - stocked regularly with trout and catfish, the reservoir offers ample opportunities for a peaceful day with your rod and reel. Keep your eyes peeled because the Lafayette Reservoir is teeming with wildlife. Birds serenade you at every turn. I go here for a hike as frequently as possible, highly recommend read more

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Local highly recommends: All times of the year we see people with babies and dogs, practicing runners, picnickers and group parties. We get an annual parking pass, less hassle. We can amble and watch birds or set goals, either way pleasing. I like that I know the terrain so I can set a pace. But there are higher trails for the ambitious. Hours vary by sunset. Staff available, small boat rental, fishing too. read more

My friend and I came here last week after not wanting to do an intense hike but still wanting to take a walk. So here are the deets! As far as I know, parking is free here. The pay stations look to be broken or out of order and when arriving, there isn't anyone in the parking payment booth. There is a bathroom near parking and another bathroom about five ninutes into the trail. The view of the water upon parking to enter the trail is a sight to see as well. This walk is about a 2.7 mile loop. I'd say it's fairly easy. There were maybe two bits of incline, but that lasted for maybe five seconds. The trees along the walk made my day. I can't get enough of these fall leaves! read more

Lafayette Reservoir - Finished the 2.7 Loop - Parks Near Me - Lafayette, California

This is a great reservoir to go hiking and boating. I came here because I want to hike. There are two main hiking trails I went: SHORE TRAIL (2.7 miles) This trail is easy since it is a paved trail and that there are restrooms along this trail. It is mostly flat, but can get a little steep along the way. Recommended for people who are new to hiking. RIM TRAIL (4.7 miles) This trail is challenging since it is an unpaved trail and that some parts of this trail are very steep. There are no restrooms in this trail, and so, you should go to the restroom first before hiking at this trail. There is much scenery of this trail since it really looks nice along the way compared to Shore Trail. It is easy to take pictures of places from above (where the benches are) since you can mostly see most parts of Lafayette Reservoir. Recommended for people who have been hiking for a while. read more

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The Lafayette Reservoir is absolutely beautiful! I love coming here and should think about getting an annual pass. I brought my dog Lola and we hiked half of the Rim trail and then followed the lake trail. It was a Friday and so less crowded than on weekends. Along the trail you can find water fountains and restrooms. I think Lola wants to come back again! read more

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Day pass parking is $7, used to be $1. I've seen some good recommendations for parking outside the park and hiking in which I haven't tried yet. Either way, lovely spot for a walk or jog when the weather is clear. We came for a birthday party and there is a spot with a small field and picnic tables on the right side of the entrance (drive down a bit and there's another smaller parking lot). There are actually a lot of picnic tables under the trees and shade decks and you may have to come early to reserve spots for large parties. Would definitely come back to relax with a group of friends or for lunch after a short hike. We noticed LOTS of people walking dogs, going on runs, and families with young children, some with scooters and bikes. Fantastic place for locals and visitors, although I'm sure the annual pass may be more worth it for locals who visit regularly. It definitely seems busy/crowded most weekends. read more

One of the best trails around for a relaxing walk with friends and their dogs, and a shorter alternative than the Lake Chabot loop. Hourly parking is not free but is easy, trash cans for doggie bags abound, and while it's quite busy on the weekends, people are generally respectful. Scoped out paddle boats and nice picnic areas, too. read more

A nice Reservoir composed of a trail, scenery and nature. It's easy to get here, and parking must be paid. It was $5 for the whole day, but I think the price changes throughout different days. On a sunny day, this is the place to be at. I mostly came for pictures, and it didn't disappoint. There is a trail that goes throughout the whole reservoir. I'm uncertain how long it is, or how much time it takes to go the full trail, but it's definitely a long one. I took the time to take a small walk, eat at a nearby bench and walk down to a dock, where you can get close to the actual water. To make it worth it, make sure to come early so you get full advantage of the parking and take time to discover everything the Lafayette Reservoir has got to offer read more

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First, we went for a leisurely walk around the reservior, noticing all the beautiful shades of green. Then, for only $7.50 for both of us, we got to ride a paddle boat for an hour (senior rate). Parking is available ($2 an hour for day passes), and year passes are also available. There's playground equipment for kids. Lots of bathrooms are scattered around the body of water. Fishing is available, and there is an area to clean fish (not to wash your feet). There is a dock available by wheelchairs. No swimming is allowed because this water is for drinking. Dogs are allowed if they are leashed. A great place for picnicing! read more

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The Lafayette Reservoir is our favorite place to get some fresh air and exercise. It's a paved (almost) 3-mile loop with a handful of hills (good workout if you're pushing a stroller!). A good mix of shade and sun along the walk. There are other unpaved trails that connect to the main trail, but we haven't ventured on those ones yet. We love that it's dog friendly (on leash), and there's a little playground for the kids. If you want to go to the playground first, go left around the reservoir. We also love that there is wildlife all over! Last time we visited we saw a mom and baby deer close to the trail. We also heard some wild turkeys. Parking is $7/day, but the row of parking when you first enter is hourly ($1.50/hour). The machines take credit card. We can walk the reservoir in an hour with our stroller if we make no stops. Closer to 2 hours if the baby is being fussy and needs a few stroller breaks! read more

First time here and it won't be my last Love it here Views are awesome I had a great walk with some incline ( felt the burn) I saw other trails you can take Many people were walking their dogs Riding bikes Jogging Pushing strollers There are many benches strategically placed so you can sit and enjoy the views or rest lol There is a kids play ground Several bathrooms that are very clean btw A water refill station (awesome) Paddle boat rental (see picts for information) Places where you can bbq and have a get together Parking is $7 for all day parking, parking lot seemed safe read more

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We have come here a few times to walk the dog. Its a great mild walk for all ages. There is always a lot of people walking the trail when we are here. There's a lot of nature to be seen. We always see so many types of birds and a few coyotes every once in a while. You can either park on the street for free and walk in or you can pay for parking. I don't mind paying for parking. Its worth it. They have a really fun play structure for smaller kids. Really well kept and unique compared to some of the parks nearby. I like this walk because its a great place to train your dog to walk on a leash. We have seen some alternate trails veering off the main walk but haven't ventured onto them yet. We will have to do some more planning for that one. Bring those kids and that dog you can barley handle out to enjoy the day. read more

Thoroughly enjoyed the hike, nature, and vibe of this reservoir. On the weekends, sometimes my guy and I wanted to get away from Oakland and explore a new spot. Lafayette reservoir wasn't too far when we lived on that side and it was a wonderful alternative. There is a parking lot you pay with 2 hrs max, public restrooms, and a water filling station. Once you start your walk, there are some forks in the road that you can take for a more adventurous path. We ended up going on an uphill detour about 3/4 of the way in and got beautiful views of the reservoir. I'd warn, however, that off the beaten path may mean muddy shoes, especially after recent rain, so proceed with caution! Although I live a bit further now, I wouldn't mind heading there for a nice getaway hike again! read more

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$10 to pay to hike around the paved reservoir. A bit shaded along the way (you can also rent paddle boats) during the summer.

One of my favorite public recreation areas for trail walking. It's only around 2.5 miles around so it's a good hour walk. If you jog, go around twice and you'll have some challenging uphill and down hill training. Restrooms are everywhere throughout the trail and if you like, you can even rent a pedal boat. Not sure how much but that's an option too. It's pretty safe as it has opening and closing hours. Not too far from Highway 24 and about a 15 minute drive away from downtown Oakland. My favorite place to get away from the city and go for a walk. read more

I love the Lafayette reservoir. It is such a beautiful loop that gets your heart pumping on some of the inclines, but also short and flat enough for you to walk with a companion and have a nice conversation. If you ever need an activity to catch up with a friend you should walk the reservoir. There is a nice play structure for kids and lots of benches to sit at along the trail and along the water. If you want something more intense you can always choose your own adventure along the ridge trail, which is an unpaved trail above the reservoir. Biking is allowed occasionally, dogs are allowed on a leash, and there are rangers who are around in case of an emergency. I love it here! Get those shoes on and get to walking! read more

** The following review reflects my experience DURING the COVID-19 pandemic. ** Oh my, I used to walk around this lake with some regularity in my semi-youth, a period of my life between adolescence and male menopause. In fact, I remember maneuvering the slopes of the five-mile Rim Trail with relative ease, but for some reason, I had not been back in over two decades until recently when I suggested to Jamie W. that we take a stroll here to get our steps in. When we got here, I was bracing myself for a parking struggle and maybe a long walk from Mt. Diablo Blvd. But I was happy to see a huge parking lot readily available after a winding road from the entrance, and it was only partially filled on a Saturday afternoon. For some reason, I didn't remember the expansive lot on top of the dam. That must be either because it hadn't been constructed the last time I was here, or I'm hurtling to the menopause end of my time spectrum. Regardless, for a $7 fee, it was worth it if it helps maintain the quality of the trails. Given the proverbial choice between the high and low roads, unlike Michelle Obama, we went low and walked the 2.7-mile lakeside loop where we maneuvered dexterously around family units, baby strollers, and texting youth distracted from the scenic pleasure of nature. There were mild slopes to contend with, but overall it was leisurely and a nice excuse to take in downtown Lafayette as a suburban chaser. I think we'll come back more often now. RELATED - Up for a hike? Here's a collection of trails I've walked and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2OrC8nU read more

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Just Wow! The Winter/Fall rain has revived the area. It's lush grass and greenery are giving oasis energy. It's bustling with determined walkers both leisure and purposeful. All very considerate and respectful of one another in this shared space. The best are the furry walkers. We saw a beautiful golden pan spontaneously dive into a mud puddle. I felt for the owner but I cheered the pooch on in its unbridled enjoyment! Folks were occupying the spaces provided for gathering with food while watching children play on the climbing/play areas. It was the perfect day to enjoy this space and walk off a big breakfast at the Hangout in Pleasant Hill. I may walk first and eat after next time. read more

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Great place for a walk or run. The path around the reservoir is all paved and takes an hour or less to walk around. The benches and recreational areas are closed for Covid. Parking is $1.50 per hour and 2 hours max and there's another lot for parking all day. There are a few good bathrooms that are pretty clean and maintained. read more

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Get their early, parking for less than 2 hours can be challenging if you are not a pass holder. About $1.50 for 2 hours. $7 for all day pass Weekends are busy, paths are nice and clean. Wide enough for strollers, wagons and mostly flat around. Kid, dogs and Senior friendly for all to do. There are also benches to sit on in the shade in multiple areas read more

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Every Tuesdays for the past several weeks now, I've been meeting my two closest friends going on adventures around the bay and called it "Therapy Tuesdays" to keep some level of sanity and normalcy during this pandemic. This past Tuesday, we ended up in Lafayette Reservoir after a trip to Berkeley Marina. It's been a while since I've been here, and this was the site of my first fishing trip in 1993. It's true when they say "Beginner's luck" when it comes to fishing since I caught a monster Rainbow Trout on our first fishing expedition. However, we didn't come here to fish this time around and we simply came here for a nice stroll. Besides, boats are not allowed during the pandemic. There are two main trails here and the paved one is The Lakeside Nature Trail, which is 2.75 miles around the lake and the dirt trail called The Rim Trail, which is 4.7 miles long and more challenging. There are also small trails along the paths that goes back-and-forth between the two main trails. You can easily finish the loop along the paved trail in less than an hour as it's a pretty easy trail with a few uphills and downhills along the way. The trail is filled with trees on each side and the majority of the trees are Monterey Pines as 5,000 of them were planted in 1935. This was done to stabilize the slopes due to the foundation began moving downhill when this man-made reservoir was filled with water during its construction in 1928. They had to redesign the dam until it settled, and construction was delayed and subsequently completed in 1933. The trees provide a wonderful scenery around the reservoir, and not to mention the canopy it provides if the sun is scorching, which is typically the case on this side of the Caldecott Tunnel. The parking lot is located on top of the dam and are separated into annual and day lots. The parking fee for the day pass is $7, and there are also metered parking for $0.75 cents for half an hour. For $3, this is enough time to walk around and explore the reservoir. If you have a handicap placard, it's free. Bikes, roller skates, roller blades and scooters are only allowed on the trail on Tuesdays and Thursdays from noon until closing, and Sundays from opening until 11 AM. The hours vary depending on the month, and the longest times they are open are from 6 AM until 9 PM during the summer. During normal operations, you can usually have picnics here as they have 125 picnic tables and 44 BBQ grills based on a first-come, first-served basis. You can also rent boats or bring your own boat, but it has to be an electric engine. Inspections and fees apply when you bring your own boat. If you come here to fish, catfish is planted during the summer and rainbow trout is planted during fall, winter and spring. And the best part of all, you can bring your four-legged friend to enjoy all the amenities this place has to offer. read more

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What a beautiful gem. Sucks that all day parking is $7. Unless you are having a picnic or your going to hang out by the water, pay for all day parking. If your just planning on walking around the reservoir, pay the $1.50 for 2hrs. Parking lot was huge, so parking was definitely not an issue. I went on a Sunday at around 9:30 am and it was starting to get crowded. It is dog friendly, people were riding their bikes, fishing, having a picnic, running - something to do for all ages. For me, I felt like it was a relatively easy hike, great for beginners. The scenery offers an array of birds and wildlife, sprinkled with picnic tables throughout the trail. This 3-mile trail can be easily done by running, walking, etc. It took less than an hour to complete. I appreciated the wide trails so it does not seem as if it is super crowded. There is also various boats, canoes and row boats for that may be available for rent at some point. Overall, I would recommend coming here if you are looking for an outdoor activity. read more

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Only one parking meter works! Imagine the lines! Whoever is managing this should get fired.