Loveland Reservoir, Alpine, A Great Place for Hiking & Fishing

Loveland Reservoir, Alpine, CA

Why go there? Hiking & Fishing

Where is it? Less than 10 minutes from the 8 freeway when taking the Tavern Rd  exit in Alpine. Make a right on to Tavern Road and keep going until you see the sign on the right side of the road. From most places in central San Diego allow for 45 minutes drive time.

Hiking Trail Difficulty: According to the Boy Scout (older than Cub Scouts, 10+ years) the trail was easy, but the parents, especially those with baby hikers strapped on their backs thought that parts of the hike were very challenging.

Fishing: I, myself do not fish and we left before the others got situated for fishing, but I am pretty sure it is a good fishing spot since we always see tons of cars in the parking lot. And one time someone took pity on my kids and let them cast out once and they did catch a fish, albeit a tiny fish.

Lake: Please note that no matter how hot you get, you cannot go into the water. It is a reservoir so they are very strict, only fishing and you can't have live bait.  No watercraft is allowed on the water either.

Scenery: Beautiful views of the lake, lots of nature, rock formations

Sounds: Lots of birds, sometimes frogs and crickets and an occasional plane or excited person who has caught a fish or sliding down the trail.

Amenities: Several in our group went to the over flow parking off of Sequan Truck Tail, they said that is where the official Loveland Reservoir site had directed them. Don't go there, keep on Tavern, which turns into Japatul Rd, and then turn into the designated parking lot. Tons of parking is available.
The trail is somewhat rustic there is a port-a-potty in the parking lot and actually throughout the trails. We were quite sure how they were serviced since it seemed pretty remote and we didn't have to check them out.


Will I Go Back? Yes, the kids loved it, I was proud of myself for overcoming the terrain and not falling, the scenery is pretty, but if they want to fish, I'm going to have to leave that up to dad.