Upper San Leandro Reservoir, body of water
The Upper San Leandro Reservoir is a large man-made lake in California that provides drinking water for nearby communities and is held back by an earth-filled dam. A walking trail circles the water, offering views of the lake surface, surrounding hills, and vegetation where visitors can stroll and explore the quiet landscape.
The reservoir was originally built in 1926 with a smaller dam that flooded a valley previously home to small communities. A new, larger dam was constructed in 1977 that stands 182 feet tall and holds significantly more water to provide the region with safer and more reliable water storage.
The reservoir serves as a walking destination where the community connects with nature while the water remains protected for public use. Its role as an accessible outdoor space reflects a balance between conservation and allowing people to experience the landscape firsthand.
When walking the trails, wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially if you plan to walk the full loop. Parking areas and nearby parks make visiting straightforward, but with no facilities directly at the reservoir, it helps to bring any supplies you might need.
The original valley was completely reshaped when it flooded two small settlements, but this history is no longer visible as it lies beneath the water surface. The place demonstrates how infrastructure projects can fundamentally reshape landscapes and communities, while the new structures themselves become part of the natural environment.
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