Bon Tempe Lake

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Trail Distance: 4 miles

Time Estimate: 2 hr 20 min +

Elevation Gain: 700 feet

Leash Rule: On Leash

Difficulty: Moderate

Parking: $8

Route Type: Loop

Restroom: Limited

Description

Bon Tempe Lake is a heavenly hideaway for nature-loving hounds and their humans who want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find themselves on a wondrous wooded walk. It is a puppy paradise for experienced explorers who don't need a path to follow and dream of fully immersing themselves in the countryside. This awe-inspiring area is even better than the postcards, and the hike won't be the only thing taking your breath away!

If you were hoping to avoid challenges and don't fancy navigating the trails but still want the oppawtunity to see just how beautiful Bon Tempe is, then don't worry -- there are easier, shorter walks for you and your precious pooch to take a wander on. A looped lap around the mesmerizing lake is perfect for those looking for a simple stroll and there's just as much flora and fauna to see and admire! There's the Sunnyside Trail and Shadyside Trail to try out, and as their names suggest, one side of the lake is basking in sunshine and the other is hugged by towering trees. Local regulars recommend that you start with the Sunnyside Trail so you and your pooch finish your trek on the cooler side.

If you've got a courageous canine on the end of that leash and you're both eager for some exciting escapades, then there's plenty of pupperific options for you, too. The Bon Tempe Trailhead provides access to many trails and some pawesome pathways that aren't even marked! Instead of turning left for Sunnyside when you leave the trailhead, why not carry on right and start your adventure on the Rocky Ridge Trail? This wide track is laced with vibrant wildflowers, trees, and shrubs, and as you climb, you can see mighty Mount Diablo.

Follow this rocky route to Stocking Trail, which is pawsitively packed with tremendous trees to climb over, under, and around! The Kent Trail is next, and this certainly isn't for the faint of heart! This path winds along the edge of a ravine, so make sure you hold on tight to Fido's leash! Pack lots of poop bags and plenty of drinking water and you can spend furever exploring Bon Tempe Lake!

Wag! does not allow or encourage Pet Care Providers to bring dogs to parks.

Cautions & Considerations

There are multiple intertwining trails in the Bon Tempe Lake Reserve, and visitors are warned that it is easy to get lost as you delve deeper into the forested areas. This trail is not recommended for those with a poor sense of direction. If possible, try to avoid the adjacent state park as dogs are not allowed there. Vehicle access is prohibited at the lake itself, but parking is available at the Mt. Tampalais Watershed or in the Lake Lagunitas parking lot, both of which are a very short, well-signed stroll from Bon Tempe Lake.