The Lafayette Reservoir is the heart of outdoor recreation in Lamorinda. A 2.7-mile paved loop circles the reservoir, making it perfect for walkers, joggers, and cyclists of all ages. On any given weekend, you’ll see families with strollers, serious runners getting their miles in, and retirees enjoying a morning constitutional.
The Rim Trail Loop
The main attraction: a paved, mostly flat 2.7-mile loop around the reservoir. It’s wide enough for bikes and pedestrians to share, with stunning views of the water and surrounding hills. Dogs are welcome on leash.
Beyond the Loop
For more adventure, several unpaved trails branch off into the surrounding hills:
- Ohlone Point Trail — Climbs to views of Mt. Diablo
- Moraga Trail Connection — Links to the Lafayette-Moraga Trail
On the Water
- Kayak & Pedal Boat Rentals — Available seasonally
- Fishing — Stocked with trout and catfish; California fishing license required
Picnic Areas
Several picnic areas dot the shoreline, some with BBQ grills. Popular for birthday parties and family gatherings — reservations available for groups.
Good to Know
- Parking fee applies (free for EBMUD passholders)
- No swimming — it’s a drinking water reservoir
- Early mornings are magical — mist on the water, fewer crowds
- Weekends get busy — arrive early for parking
- Dogs allowed on leash on paved trails
Seasonal Tips
- Mid-May 2026: The transition window. Hills are halfway through their shift from emerald green to summer gold, giving the surrounding ridges a two-tone watercolor look that only lasts a couple of weeks. Sunsets now stretch past 8pm — perfect for after-dinner loops in long golden light. Mornings are still cool (50s) but afternoons climb into the upper 70s, so early starts beat both heat and parking pressure. Most wildflowers are past peak, but you’ll still find late-season lupine and yarrow on the ridge trails. Weekends are busy — arrive by 8am for easy parking.
- Late winter/early spring (Feb-Apr): The hills turn emerald green after rains. One of the prettiest times to visit, and prime wildflower window (poppies on the Ohlone Point Trail in March-April).
- Summer (June-Sept): Arrive before 8am to beat the heat and the parking crunch. The reservoir loop is fully shaded in pockets but exposed in others — bring water. Evenings after 6pm cool off nicely and the light on the water is gorgeous.
- Fall: Golden grasses and cooler temps make for ideal hiking.
Getting There
Main entrance on Mt. Diablo Blvd, about a mile east of downtown Lafayette. The lot can fill up on nice weekends — come early.
Explore More in Lamorinda
- Lafayette Guide � Full overview of the town this sits in
- All Things to Do � More Lamorinda outings, parks, and venues
- Real Estate in Lamorinda � Buying or selling in Lafayette, Lafayette, Moraga, or Orinda