The best running trails in Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area
5.0
(30)
2,450
runners
138
runs
Jogging in Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area offers diverse routes around a central reservoir, characterized by a mix of paved and unpaved trails. The landscape features open ridgetops, brushland, and oak forests, providing varied terrain for runners. Elevation changes are present, particularly on the Rim Trail, which offers panoramic views of the reservoir and surrounding areas. The area provides both relatively flat lakeside paths and more challenging ascents and descents.
Best jogging routes in Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area
- The most popular…
Last updated: July 9, 2026
5.0
(1)
2
runners
7.72km
00:56
150m
150m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
34
runners
17.9km
01:52
150m
150m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
runners
9.17km
01:05
200m
200m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
23
runners
10.0km
01:02
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
runners
10.9km
01:09
90m
90m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area
Tips from the Community
There are a bunch of great hiking and biking trails around the reservoir. Some, like the Shore Trail, are two-lane paved cycleways with no vehicle traffic, and others are unpaved dirt roads up in the hills. All are beautiful trails to explore on two wheels!
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The Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area is a year-round park with a 2.7 paved walkway around the reservoir. Looking around at the surrounding hills makes you forget you're in the middle of a Bay Area suburb.
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By this spot on the Lafayette-Moraga Regional Trail, also known as the Lafayette-Moraga Regional Trail, the Las Trampas and Grizzly Creeks merge. Near this spot you can also access Burton Valley, a small neighborhood in Lafayette.
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Lafayette is a city in Contra Costa County, California, with a population of 25,391 as of 2020. Named after the Marquis de Lafayette, a French officer in the American Revolutionary War, landmarks include the Lafayette Library and Learning Center, Oakmont Memorial Park, and the Cross of Lafayette Memorial, a somewhat controversial tribute to U.S. soldiers who died in Iraq. Lafayette is also home to the historic Park Theater, which closed in 2005 but is currently being considered for reopening. This is a great town to pass through, or start and/or end a ride.
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Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area, nestled in the East Bay hills, offers serene lakeside trails, fishing, and picnicking. Boasting scenic views, it's a tranquil escape for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.
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From this point, you can enjoy an almost unobstructed view of the entire Lafayette Reservoir, with the city visible in the background.
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Here you can relish the beauty of the water while hiking, or take a break to partake in various other activities the reservoir has to offer. These include fishing, picnicking, and even the option to rent a pedal boat, providing a different perspective of the area.
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Along the upper part of the Rim Trail the views open up down and across the Lafayette Reservoir lake to the East.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area?
The Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area offers over 100 running routes, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. You'll find a diverse network of trails, from paved lakeside paths to more challenging ridgetop fire roads.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly running routes around Lafayette Reservoir?
Yes, for an easy and relatively flat run, the Lakeside Nature Trail is a paved 2.7-mile loop encircling the reservoir. It's perfect for casual joggers and offers a consistent surface with a mix of shade and sun. Another popular moderate option is the Shore Trail - Lafayette Reservoir Park loop from Lafayette, which is 4.4 miles long.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the jogging trails?
The area features a mix of terrain. The Lakeside Nature Trail is paved and relatively flat, ideal for a smooth run. For a more rugged experience, the Rim Trail is an unpaved fire road with constant ascents and descents, leading through brushland and oak forests. Many routes combine these, like the Lafayette Reservoir Rim and Lakeside Trail Loop.
Are there challenging running routes with significant elevation gain?
Absolutely. For a more strenuous workout, the Rim Trail offers a just-under-5-mile loop with constant ascents and descents, providing a good challenge. The Lafayette Reservoir Rim and Lakeside Trail Loop also includes significant elevation changes, reaching nearly 200 meters of ascent over 5.7 miles.
What are the best viewpoints or natural features to see while running?
Joggers on the Rim Trail are treated to expansive panoramic views of the Lafayette Reservoir, the surrounding city, and distant Mount Diablo. The trails also wind through diverse ecosystems, including open, grassy ridges, brushland, and beautiful oak forests, especially vibrant in autumn. The reservoir itself is a serene backdrop for all activities.
Is the Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area accessible by public transport?
Yes, the Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area is conveniently located near the Lafayette BART station, making it easily accessible via public transportation. This allows for a hassle-free journey to the starting points of many running routes.
Are there any circular running routes available?
Yes, many of the routes are circular. The Lakeside Nature Trail is a 2.7-mile loop around the reservoir, and the Rim Trail is also a loop. For a longer option, consider the Lafayette Reservoir Rim and Lakeside Trail Loop, which combines both for a 5.7-mile circular run.
Can I bring my dog on the running trails?
Yes, the Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area is dog-friendly. The paved Lakeside Nature Trail is a popular choice for dog owners, offering an enjoyable experience for both you and your canine companion. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and follow park regulations.
What is the best time of year to go running in the Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area?
The Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area is a year-round day-use park. Autumn is particularly beautiful when the black and valley oaks display vibrant colors. However, the diverse trails with a mix of shade and sun make it enjoyable in most seasons. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the serene reservoir views, the variety of trails catering to different fitness levels, and the feeling of being isolated from surrounding neighborhoods despite its suburban location. The mix of wooded and open areas is also frequently highlighted.
Are there facilities like picnic areas or playgrounds available?
Yes, the park offers numerous amenities. You'll find picnic tables and BBQ grills throughout the park, with some areas reservable for groups, perfect for post-run relaxation. There are also two play areas for children, making it a family-friendly destination.
Are there any other activities available at the reservoir besides running?
Beyond running, the reservoir offers a variety of recreational activities. You can rent rowboats and pedal boats, or bring your own canoe, kayak, or sailboat (with restrictions). It's also a popular spot for fishing, stocked with trout, catfish, bass, and sunfish.
Most popular routes in Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area
Most popular attractions in Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area
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