Top 14 Lakes around Novato
Best lakes around Novato, California, are situated amidst rolling hills and natural landscapes, offering diverse outdoor experiences. The area features both recreational parks and reservoirs, providing a range of activities for visitors. These lakes contribute to the region's natural beauty and serve as important water sources. Novato's surroundings are characterized by a mix of open meadows, redwood groves, and scenic valleys.
Best lakes around Novato
- The most popular lakes is Stafford Lake Park, a lake that features well-maintained picnic areas, restrooms, and a mountain bike parcours. It offers diverse activities including shore fishing, disc golf, and hiking trails.
- Another must-see spot is Nicasio Reservoir, a lake known for its picturesque setting amidst rolling hills. Visitors can expect opportunities for fishing, hiking, and enjoying tranquil roadside picnic spots.
- Visitors also love Novato Lake Dam Bike Trail, a cycle_way along the north shore and dam of the lake. This dedicated paved bike trail is securely separated from the road, offering a safe route for cycling.
- Novato is known for recreational lakes and reservoirs. These bodies of water provide a variety of settings for outdoor activities and natural appreciation.
- The lakes around Novato are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 15 upvotes and 8 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
Bolinas to Fairfax Road
Highlight (Segment) β’ Trail
Narrow without shoulders but usually little traffic and those that drive are used to respect the many bikes that share the road.
Bring water, as the next fill up after Fairfax is either at Mount Tam or Stinson.
From here West Ridgecrest Road continues to climb toward the Rockspring intersection which either goes left to the summit of Mount Tam or right to Pantoll and the Panoramic highway.
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Stafford Lake Park
Highlight β’ Lake
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Nicasio Reservoir
Highlight β’ Lake
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Novato Lake Dam Bike Trail
Highlight (Segment) β’ Cycleway
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Mt Tam Watershed East Loop: Phoenix Lake - Lake Lagunitas - Eldridge Grade - Indian Fire Road π΅
Highlight (Segment) β’ Trail
It climbs gradually on Shaver Grade fire road from the Natalie Coffin Green Park parking lot in Ross below Phoenix Lake to the intersection with Filter Road to Lake Lagunitas, circles the lake and climbs a little south of Pilot Knob, turns right south on Eldridge Grade and then offers a turn left onto Indian Fire Road which soon swings north and back down along a pronounced ridge (see photo) toward Phoenix Lake. Unfortunately Indian Fire Road connects to residential streets and very short connector trails that are pedestrian-only before continuing again as multi-use trails back to the parking lot. This track here shows the politically correct return via quiet Ross residential streets to the parking lot.
See π΅ Tour komoot.de/tour/9831707 for highlighted segments and labeled photos.
For a similar length yet slightly more challenging loop with 4 lakes via Rocky Ridge fire road try komoot.de/tour/9817832
On every tour π Gopher snakes crossed the trails in front of my bike. They move slow so be careful not to roll over them accidentally, particularly when biking down the sweet descents.
π NOT Dangerous (Non-poisonous) π
Gopher Snakes do NOT have venom dangerous to humans
One of the most commonly seen snakes in California. Primarily active during the day, and after sundown on hot days. Often crawling across trails and roads, and around human dwellings or backyards, attracted to rodents which thrive in such areas.
Unfortunately, this harmless and beneficial species is often killed out of fear that it is dangerous or a rattlesnake.
californiaherps.com/identification/snakesid/gophersnakes.id.html
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Tips from the Community
Your description paints a vivid picture of an incredible biking experience. The road may be narrow, but it sounds like the tranquility and minimal traffic make it a perfect spot for a peaceful and scenic ride through Marin. For more info visit: https://ustransportationcompanies.com/highway/limo-car-services-in-shrewsbury-massachusetts/ Professional Limo Car Services in Shrewsbury MA
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Nice climb through magnificent trees and lovely lake in the middle.
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Dedicated securely separate paved bike trail along the north shore and dam of the lake, protected from the road by a wide steel railing.
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Sprawling, somewhat shallow reservoir lake filling the wide valley that looks like a hot desert most of summer and fall. Several branches are crossed by the road at high water levels, but not seen in many years.
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Pleasant lake with very attentive staff, well maintained picnic areas as well as hammock hangouts, restrooms, a mountain bike parcours, lawns, BBQ grills and shade/rain shelters. The lake shore is shallow and can be muddy depending on the drought/water level.
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Great climb and very light traffic. It starts out steep but then is more gradual to the top!
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From Fairfax to Ridgecrest Boulevard is the consumate component of a road bike ride through Marin to Mount Tamalpais or Stinson Beach. Narrow without shoulders but usually little traffic and those that drive are used to respect the many bikes that share the road. Bring water, as the next fill up after Fairfax is either at Mount Tam or Stinson. From here West Ridgecrest Road continues to climb toward the Rockspring intersection which either goes left to the summit of Mount Tam or right to Pantoll and the Panoramic highway.
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An easier π΅ loop in Mt Tamalpais Watershed: It climbs gradually on Shaver Grade fire road from the Natalie Coffin Green Park parking lot in Ross below Phoenix Lake to the intersection with Filter Road to Lake Lagunitas, circles the lake and climbs a little south of Pilot Knob, turns right south on Eldridge Grade and then offers a turn left onto Indian Fire Road which soon swings north and back down along a pronounced ridge (see photo) toward Phoenix Lake. Unfortunately Indian Fire Road connects to residential streets and very short connector trails that are pedestrian-only before continuing again as multi-use trails back to the parking lot. This track here shows the politically correct return via quiet Ross residential streets to the parking lot. See π΅ Tour https://www.komoot.de/tour/9831707 for highlighted segments and labeled photos. For a similar length yet slightly more challenging loop with 4 lakes via Rocky Ridge fire road try https://www.komoot.de/tour/9817832 On every tour π Gopher snakes crossed the trails in front of my bike. They move slow so be careful not to roll over them accidentally, particularly when biking down the sweet descents. π NOT Dangerous (Non-poisonous) π Gopher Snakes do NOT have venom dangerous to humans One of the most commonly seen snakes in California. Primarily active during the day, and after sundown on hot days. Often crawling across trails and roads, and around human dwellings or backyards, attracted to rodents which thrive in such areas. Unfortunately, this harmless and beneficial species is often killed out of fear that it is dangerous or a rattlesnake. http://www.californiaherps.com/identification/snakesid/gophersnakes.id.html
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Frequently Asked Questions
What activities can I do at Stafford Lake Park?
At Stafford Lake Park, you can enjoy a wide range of activities including shore fishing (license required for those over 16), disc golf, and hiking on the Terwilliger Nature Trail. The park also features the North Bay's first public bike park with courses for all skill levels, picnic areas with barbecue facilities, and an adventure playground with a zip line for families.
What are the main attractions at Nicasio Reservoir?
Nicasio Reservoir is known for its picturesque setting amidst rolling hills, offering a serene escape. Visitors can fish for largemouth bass, carp, catfish, stripers, and spotted bass. There are also hiking trails to explore the natural beauty and tranquil roadside picnic spots. Bike riding is popular, with some trails leading to a shoreline peninsula.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Novato?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Stafford Lake Park has an adventure playground, picnic areas, and easy trails. Nicasio Reservoir offers peaceful picnic spots and gentle trails. The Novato Lake Dam Bike Trail is a dedicated, securely separated paved path perfect for family cycling.
Can I go mountain biking near the lakes?
Absolutely! Stafford Lake Park is home to the Stafford Lake Bike Park, the North Bay's first public bike park, offering courses for all skill levels, including a dual slalom course. For more cycling options, you can explore routes in the area like the "Stafford Lake Park β Nicasio loop" which is part of the Road Cycling Routes around Novato guide.
Are there easy hiking trails around Novato's lakes?
Yes, for easy hiking, the Terwilliger Nature Trail at Stafford Lake Park offers pleasant walks and opportunities for birdwatching. Trails around Nicasio Reservoir also provide accessible options for exploring the natural beauty of the Nicasio Valley.
When is the best time to visit the lakes around Novato?
The lakes around Novato can be enjoyed year-round. Fall is particularly beautiful at Stafford Lake Park, as it's one of the few places in the Bay Area where trees display vibrant fall colors. Spring and summer are ideal for water activities and picnics, while cooler months are great for hiking and cycling.
Are the lakes near Novato dog-friendly?
Many parks and natural areas around Novato, including Stafford Lake Park, generally allow dogs on leash. It's always best to check specific park regulations before your visit to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
What kind of nature and wildlife can I expect to see?
The lakes offer diverse natural beauty. At Stafford Lake Park, you can find open meadows, redwood groves, and observe waterfowl, raptors, songbirds, Bullock's orioles, and western kingbirds. Nicasio Reservoir is known for its rolling hills and sightings of wildlife such as North American river otters.
Are there cycling routes near the lakes?
Yes, the Novato Lake Dam Bike Trail is a dedicated paved path along the north shore and dam of the lake, securely separated from the road. Additionally, the area around Nicasio Reservoir is popular for bike riding, with trails leading to a shoreline peninsula. You can find more cycling options in the Cycling around Novato guide.
Where can I find places to eat or picnic near the lakes?
Both Stafford Lake Park and Nicasio Reservoir offer numerous picnic areas, some with barbecue facilities. For a unique experience, the Marin French Cheese Company & Picnic Pond allows visitors to sample cheeses and enjoy a picnic by their pond.
Are there any wheelchair accessible trails around Novato's lakes?
The Novato Lake Dam Bike Trail is a dedicated paved path, which typically offers good accessibility for wheelchairs. For specific accessibility details at other locations, it's recommended to check directly with the park services.
What are some other significant lakes near Novato besides Stafford Lake?
Beyond Stafford Lake Park, Nicasio Reservoir is a prominent 845-acre artificial lake known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. The Novato Lake Dam Bike Trail also provides access to the shores of Novato Lake.
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