Gorgeous watershed recreation area

Open March to Mid-October. Open weekends only in September and early October.

Hidden in the redwood hills is a beautiful, serene, 175 acre reservoir that supplies water to Santa Cruz and the surrounding area.

Home to rainbow trout, white bluegill, green sunfish and large mouth bass, Loch Lomond’s many shady coves provide the perfect spot for a lazy afternoon of fishing or just cruising in one of the electric motor boats, row boats, a two-seater pedal-paddle boats or nucanoes—a cross between a kayak and a canoe available for rent. Or you can store your own canoe or kayak on site for a seasonal fee.

There’s even a tiny island in the middle of the lake with a picnic table and several other large picnic areas. Note the lake supplies drinking water so there’s no swimming.

Why we ♥ it

Great for hiking
Take an easy one-hour 2.3 mile in-and-out hike on the Loch Trail. Or the more challenging 2-1/2 hour, 5-mile Highland Trail loop to the weather station atop a sunny knoll that rewards you with a panoramic view of the lake and surrounding hills. Dogs on leash are allowed.

Take it easy
Picnic benches overlooking the lake offer relaxing views, and renovated restrooms and parking areas accommodate physically challenged persons.

Great for fishing
Bring your own rods and poles. Bait, tackle and fishing licenses are available at the park store.

Getting there
After Labor Day the park is open 7am to 6pm, weekends only.

100 Loch Lomond Way, Felton. From Santa Cruz: Take Graham Hill Road towards Felton. Just after you cross the railroad tracks, turn right onto East Zayante Road. Go about 2.5 miles to Lompico Road. Turn left. Go about 1.5 miles to West Drive. Turn left. Go about 3/4 of a mile to Sequoia Drive. Turn right. Follow Sequoia Drive to the entrance.

More info

Image: Loch Lomond Reservoir by Don DeBold, Creative Commons

Eco 831

Eco-guide to living lighter

Loch Lomond: A hidden gem in the Santa Cruz mountains

Loch Lomond: A hidden gem in the Santa Cruz mountains

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