Top 20 Lakes around Sunol
Best lakes around Sunol offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. Sunol Regional Wilderness features Alameda Creek, known for "Little Yosemite" with rapids and boulders, and encompasses rolling hills and oak trees. While Sunol itself is characterized by its creek, nearby regional parks provide access to several notable lakes. These areas are popular for hiking, water activities, and enjoying the natural environment.
Best lakes around Sunol
- The most popular lakes is Calaveras Reservoir Scenic Segment, a trail and lake highlight that features a ten-mile segment climbing into the rural Calaveras Valley. It offers views of the rebuilt Calaveras Dam and the surrounding park.
- Another must-see spot is Coyote Creek Lagoon of Don Edwards wetlands, a lake and wetland area. A 2-mile section of the Bay Trail follows a levee, showcasing restored wetlands.
- Visitors also love Lake Elizabeth, a man-made lake located in Fremont's Central Park. A paved trail runs the perimeter, offering views to Duck Island and connecting to a network of running trails.
- Sunol Regional Wilderness lakes recreation includes a variety of water bodies such as reservoirs, lagoons, and man-made lakes. These offer opportunities for hiking, viewing wildlife, and enjoying the natural surroundings.
- The lakes around Sunol are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 20 upvotes and 18 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
Calaveras Reservoir Scenic Segment
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Coyote Creek Lagoon of Don Edwards wetlands
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Badger Cove
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Lake Elizabeth
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Lake Del Valle
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Tips from the Community
Calfateras road begins by a robust climb, and then it changes to a series of switchbacks with spectacular views to the reservoir and surrounding park. The switchbacks alternate between downhill and moderate climbs, before a long downhill and flat terrain.
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Riding south on Felter road from Calaveras after doing Polamares and and Calaveras Roads was a real challenge, especially since it was my first time! Get something to fuel up on at the Sunol Little Store!
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There is a lovely paved trail that runs the perimeter of Lake Elizabeth and offers views to Duck Island. The lake is surrounded by Central Park's many sports fields and green areas, which also have a great network of paved running trails to explore.
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Del Valle Lake was formed by Del Valle Dam, completed in 1968. The lake, about 5 miles long, has trails meandering along it, offering stunning views along the way. As the name suggests, the lake is tucked in a valley, with plenty of higher vantage points to enjoy the views.
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Lake Del Valle is an artificial impoundment located in the dry Livermore Valley. The lake is formed by the Arroyo del Valle River and is surrounded by the grassy hills of Del Valle Regional Park. The area has 4395 acres of parkland, offering many hiking trails with views and lake access. There is not much shade in the park, so it is recommended to visit the park during spring, autumn, and winter seasons to avoid high temperatures.
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Badger Cove is a small bay on Lake Del Valle. The East Shore Trail is one of the highlights of Del Valle State Recreation Area, and it offers views of the cove from between the trees. The Ridgeline Trail is another path on the property that offers great views of the cove and lake from a higher vantage point.
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Badger Cove is a small bay on Lake Del Valle. The East Shore Trail is one of the highlights of Del Valle State Recreation Area, and it offers views of the cove from between the trees. The Ridgeline Trail is another path on the property that offers great views of the cove and lake from a higher vantage point.
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Lake Elizabeth is a lovely man-made lake located in the Central Park of Fremont.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of lakes and water bodies can I find around Sunol?
While Sunol Regional Wilderness itself is known for Alameda Creek and its scenic "Little Yosemite" area, the broader region offers a variety of lakes. These include natural lakes, former quarry lakes like Shadow Cliffs Lake, and artificial impoundments such as Lake Del Valle and Lake Elizabeth. You'll also find wetlands like Coyote Creek Lagoon of Don Edwards wetlands and reservoirs like Calaveras Reservoir.
Are there opportunities for swimming at lakes near Sunol?
Yes, Shadow Cliffs Lake in Pleasanton/Livermore is a popular spot for swimming. It features a sandy beach and allows swimming year-round, with lifeguards on duty during the summer months.
Where can I go fishing near Sunol?
Several lakes in the area are excellent for fishing. Shadow Cliffs Lake is regularly stocked with trout and catfish, and also has bluegill and black bass. Lake Del Valle is another popular fishing destination. Other nearby reservoirs known for fishing include San Antonio Reservoir, Calaveras Reservoir, and Lake Chabot.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the area?
Absolutely. Lake Elizabeth in Fremont's Central Park is very family-friendly, with a paved trail, sports fields, and green areas. Coyote Creek Lagoon of Don Edwards wetlands offers an easy 2-mile section of the Bay Trail suitable for families. Lake Del Valle is also popular with families, offering boat rentals and various water activities.
What are some good lakes for hiking around Sunol?
Many lakes offer excellent hiking opportunities. The Calaveras Reservoir Scenic Segment features a ten-mile trail with views of the rebuilt dam and surrounding park. Lake Del Valle has 4395 acres of parkland with numerous hiking trails, including the East Shore Trail and Ridgeline Trail near Badger Cove. For more options, explore the Hiking around Sunol guide.
Can I bring my dog to lakes around Sunol?
Yes, Lake Del Valle is a dog-friendly destination, offering trails and parkland where you can enjoy the outdoors with your canine companion.
What natural features are unique to the Sunol area?
Sunol Regional Wilderness is notable for Alameda Creek, which features a scenic area known as "Little Yosemite" with rapids and boulders, especially vibrant in spring. The wilderness preserve itself is characterized by rolling hills, oak trees, and a beautiful display of wildflowers in the spring.
What is the best time to visit the lakes near Sunol?
Spring is ideal for experiencing the wildflowers in Sunol Regional Wilderness and seeing "Little Yosemite" at its most vibrant. For lakes like Lake Del Valle, which has limited shade, visiting during spring, autumn, and winter is recommended to avoid high summer temperatures while still enjoying the trails and views.
Are there accessible trails around the lakes?
Yes, Lake Elizabeth in Fremont offers a lovely paved trail that runs its perimeter, making it wheelchair accessible and suitable for strollers.
What other outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
Beyond hiking, the area around Sunol offers a range of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for running, such as those listed in the Running Trails around Sunol guide. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails detailed in the MTB Trails around Sunol guide. Lake Del Valle is a hub for kayaking, boating, and camping.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Sunol?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. Many enjoy the scenic views, especially from trails around Calaveras Reservoir and Lake Del Valle. The restored wetlands at Coyote Creek Lagoon are valued for wildlife viewing, and the family-friendly amenities at Lake Elizabeth are a big draw.
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