The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Lake Chabot Regional Park
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2,018
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Dog friendly hiking trails in Lake Chabot Regional Park traverse a diverse landscape centered around a 315-acre reservoir. The park features a mix of open spaces, rolling hills, and wooded areas, including eucalyptus groves and marshlands. Its extensive trail system offers varied terrain, from gentle slopes along the shoreline to more challenging ascents, providing a range of experiences for hikers and their dogs.
Best dog friendly hiking trails in Lake Chabot Regional Park
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Brandon, Two Rocks, Columbine, Towhee Trails, a 5.5 miles (8.9 km) trail that takes 2 hours 36 minutes to complete. This route offers a mix of wooded sections and open views.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Lake Chabot loop via West Shore and East Shore Trails, a moderate 8.9 miles (14.4 km) path. This trail provides continuous lake views and varied terrain around the reservoir.
- Local hikers also love the Columbine, Honker Bay, and Towhee Trail Loop, a 5.8 miles (9.4 km) trail leading through wooded areas and along the shoreline, often completed in about 2 hours 47 minutes.
- Hiking in Lake Chabot Regional Park is defined by its central reservoir, rolling hills, and diverse wooded areas. The network offers options for different ability levels, from paved lakeside paths to more challenging trails through varied terrain.
- The routes in Lake Chabot Regional Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 60 reviews. More than 1100 hikers have used komoot to explore Lake Chabot Regional Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
1
hikers
8.86km
02:36
260m
240m
Hike the 5.5-mile Brandon, Two Rocks, Columbine, Towhee Trails in Lake Chabot Regional Park, a moderate route with 859 feet of gain.
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(11)
120
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Hike the moderate 9.0-mile Lake Chabot loop via West Shore and East Shore Trails, offering varied terrain and scenic lake views.
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4.0
(1)
2
hikers
17.7km
05:05
430m
430m
The East Shore Trail loop from Redwood Canyon Golf Course offers a substantial and rewarding hike around Lake Chabot, showcasing diverse scenery from shady oak clusters to open ridgelines. As you traverse the 11.0 miles (17.7 km) of trail, you'll be treated to clear blue views of the lake, set against a backdrop of golden-brown grassy hills, with panoramic vistas across the Tri-Valley, and even Mount Diablo visible in the distance from higher points. The route includes sections like the Ten Hills Trail and Honker Bay Trail, providing a varied experience for those seeking a longer outing.
This difficult hiking route involves a significant 1411 feet (430 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 5 hours and 5 minutes to complete. The trailhead is easily accessible near the Redwood Canyon Golf Course, making parking straightforward. It's highly recommended to start this challenging hike early in the day, especially if you're visiting during warmer seasons, and to bring plenty of water, as some parts of the trail are exposed.
What makes this East Shore Trail loop particularly notable is the opportunity for wildlife spotting, including the chance to see bald eagles, which have been known to nest in the Lake Chabot area. The combination of beautiful lake views, varied landscapes, and the potential for wildlife encounters makes this a standout option for experienced hikers looking for a full day on the trails near Redwood Canyon Golf Course.
9.37km
02:48
290m
270m
Hike the moderate 5.8-mile Columbine, Honker Bay, and Towhee Trail Loop in Lake Chabot Regional Park for lake views and varied terrain.
5
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
There is a clearing in the trees that gives you a great view of Lake Chabot.
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The East Shore Trail along Lake Chabot is a 3.6-mile out-and-back paved trail with beautiful views of Lake Chabot. This trail has benches along the route, and conveniently located bathrooms can be found about every half mile.
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Lake Chabot Marina is a scenic area that has boating, bike paths, and over a dozen hiking trails. Visitors can rent boats, fish, and kayak in the lake. There is a cafe here, or just vending machines for snacks, restaurants, and picnic areas.
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Lake Chabot Marina is a scenic area with boasts, bike paths, and over a dozen hiking trails. Visitors can rent boats, fish, and kayak in the lake. There is a cafe here, or just vending machines for a snack, restaurants, and picnic areas.
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A popular trail runs right through this pretty, 18-hole golf course, which also has 170 parking spots — more than any other lot in the immediate area. More information here: https://www.redwoodcanyongolf.com/course/information
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Just as the name suggests, you can look forward to some rolling elevation gain and loss on the Ten Hills Trail! This hard-packed trail is a popular route with mountain bikers too, so please keep an eye out.
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This gate is in Chabot Park, a rustic, 10-acre park in the City of San Leandro. The park is usually open from 8am to 7pm and has several picnic areas that are available by reservation from May through October. More information here: https://www.sanleandro.org/Facilities/Facility/Details/Chabot-Park-4
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Unlike the nearby West Shore Trail, the Bass Cove Trail is not paved. But it's still a wide, well-packed walking surface. Expect to find occasional shade, great views over Lake Chabot, and some happy mountain bikers out to enjoy the rolling hills along this trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in Lake Chabot Regional Park?
There are 9 dog-friendly hiking trails featured in this guide for Lake Chabot Regional Park, offering a variety of distances and difficulties for you and your canine companion.
What kind of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly trails in Lake Chabot Regional Park?
The park offers diverse terrain, from paved paths along the lake to more challenging rolling hills and wooded singletrack. You'll find a mix of open spaces, eucalyptus groves, and dense woods. Trails like the Brandon, Two Rocks, Columbine, Towhee Trails provide a good example of the varied landscape.
Are there any dog-friendly loop trails in Lake Chabot Regional Park?
Yes, Lake Chabot Regional Park features several excellent dog-friendly loop trails. A popular option is the Lake Chabot loop via West Shore and East Shore Trails, which offers a comprehensive experience of the park's varied terrain and lake views. Another great choice is the Columbine, Honker Bay, and Towhee Trail Loop.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I can see while hiking with my dog?
While hiking with your dog, you can explore several interesting features. The historic Chabot Dam and Spillway are prominent landmarks, especially visible on routes like the Chabot Dam and Spillway loop. The park also boasts extensive marshlands, dense woods, and the beautiful Lake Chabot itself, which is a central feature of many trails.
Are there any shaded trails suitable for hiking with dogs, especially on warmer days?
Yes, many trails in Lake Chabot Regional Park offer good shade, which is ideal for hiking with dogs on warmer days. The park features dense woods and eucalyptus groves. The East Shore Trail and West Shore Trail, while partly paved, also have shaded sections, and the Columbine Trail is known for its quiet, woodsy atmosphere.
What do other hikers say about the dog-friendly trails in Lake Chabot Regional Park?
The dog-friendly trails in Lake Chabot Regional Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful lake views, and the variety of terrain that makes for an engaging experience for both humans and their dogs.
Is there parking available for dog-friendly trailheads in Lake Chabot Regional Park?
Yes, Lake Chabot Regional Park offers ample parking at various trailheads and access points, including near the Lake Chabot Marina. It's always a good idea to arrive early on weekends or holidays to secure a spot, especially for popular routes.
Are there any specific considerations for hiking with dogs and children in the park?
When hiking with dogs and children, consider trails that are relatively flat and well-maintained. The paved East Shore Trail and West Shore Trail are excellent choices for families, offering continuous lake views and easy walking. Remember to keep dogs on leash and carry enough water for everyone, including your pet.
When is the best time of year to hike with my dog in Lake Chabot Regional Park?
Lake Chabot Regional Park is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer the most pleasant hiking conditions with mild temperatures. Spring brings lush greenery, while fall provides comfortable weather. Summers can be warm, so opt for shaded trails and early morning or late afternoon hikes during those months. Winters are generally mild but can be wet.
Can I find trails that offer continuous lake views for me and my dog?
Absolutely! The East Shore Trail and West Shore Trail, which form part of the larger Lake Chabot loop, run directly alongside the reservoir, providing continuous and picturesque views of the water and surrounding hills. The Honker Bay Trail also follows the shoreline with attractive lake views.
Are there any longer, more challenging dog-friendly hikes for experienced hikers?
For experienced hikers looking for a longer challenge with their dog, the East Shore Trail loop from Redwood Canyon Golf Course is a difficult 17.7 km route with significant elevation gain. The full Lake Chabot loop, at over 14 km, also provides a substantial workout with varied terrain.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while walking my dog in Lake Chabot Regional Park?
Lake Chabot Regional Park is home to abundant wildlife. You might spot various species of native waterfowl and other birds, especially near the lake and marshlands. While hiking, keep an eye out for deer, rabbits, and other small mammals. Remember to keep your dog on a leash to protect both your pet and the local wildlife.
Are there any facilities like cafes or picnic areas near the dog-friendly trails?
Yes, the Lake Chabot Marina serves as a central hub, offering a cafe where you can grab refreshments. There are also numerous picnic areas throughout the park, many under eucalyptus groves, perfect for a post-hike meal with your dog by your side.
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