City: Lafayette Park: Lafayette ReservoirAlternate URL: Click Here
A 6.25-mile hike on the upper rim trail of the Lafayette Reservoir with about a 1400-foot elevation gain. The clockwise hike starts from the intersection of Moraga Road and Via Granada.
Route is up the trail from the start point, then left on the Lafayette Rim Trail and continuing past the water tank until reaching the picnic tables just before the dam. After a short rest/snack stop, continue past the restrooms to cross the dam.
After crossing the dam, turn right on the lower trail, then left on the trail just past the play area. Turn right on the rim trail at the top of the hill and continue to the 2nd sign board to turn left to return to the start point on the trail we originally ascended.
Dogs OK but must be on-leash.
The Rim Trail is a dirt trail. This hike is 4.7 miles in length. Unlike the lower paved route around the reservoir, the rim trail has a lot of ups and downs, including some rather steep grade portions. Overall this trail is fairly moderate for the avid hiker, but could be quite challenging for the novice or newbie. There are two stops where water and toilet facilities are available.
From Walnut Creek, follow Hwy 24 Westbound, take the Central Lafayette / Moraga exit. Follow the signs toward First Street / Central District / Moraga. (Right turn onto 1st.). At stoplight, make a RIGHT turn onto Mount Diablo Blvd. Immediately merge into the LEFT LANE, and make a LEFT TURN onto Moraga Rd. Merge into the RIGHT LANE and continue STRAIGHT at the light (right lane) on Moraga Rd.
From Orinda/Berkeley, follow Hwy 24 Eastbound, take the OAK HILL ROAD exit toward CENTRAL LAFAYETTE. Turn RIGHT onto OAK HILL RD, then immediate LEFT onto MT DIABLO BLVD, followed by a RIGHT onto MORAGA ROAD and continue STRAIGHT at the light (right lane) on Moraga Rd.
Approximately 2 miles down the road watch for the "Speed Checked By Radar" sign. Immediately following the Speed Check sign, make a RIGHT TURN onto Via Granada. Park curbside. Meet at the "Speed Limit 25" sign located across the street from 3763 Via Granada.