05/26/2026
Have you visited Loch Lomond Recreation Area yet? Hiking, boating, or fishing, this peaceful reservoir is a great destination in the Santa Cruz Mountains. 🌲 🎣 🛶 Check below for operating hours and helpful FAQs for planning your visit!
May: 7 AM - 8 PM (Thursday - Tuesday)
June: 7 AM - 8:30 PM (Thursday - Tuesday)
July: 7 AM - 8:30 PM (Thursday - Tuesday)
August – Labor Day: 7 AM - 8 PM (Thursday - Tuesday)
Labor Day – Second Weekend of October: 7 AM - 6 PM (Saturday and Sunday Only)
FAQs for visiting:
▪️Loch Lomond is seasonal: Operating from March through mid-October; see above for exact days and times.
▪️Loch Lomond Reservoir is the City of Santa Cruz’s primary source of drinking water!
▪️NO swimming or contact with water is allowed.
▪️Vehicle Fee $10, Season Pass $100.
▪️Arrive early to snag one of the limited parking spaces closest to the lake.
▪️There are 12 miles of hiking trails to explore around the loch.
▪️Rent an electric motorboat or a rowboat from the Park Store, or call ahead to reserve your boat: 831-335-7424
▪️Fishing is welcome, and licenses can be obtained from the Park Store.
▪️Picnicking is available at many parts of the park. Bring your own charcoal if you plan to BBQ.
▪️Free boat tours of Loch Lomond on the Newell Jewell are offered during the second weekend of each month, Saturday and Sunday, 11 AM-noon. Tours can accommodate 25 people, and you can sign up at the Park Store. First come, first served.
▪️Loch Lomond Recreation Area is dog-friendly, so bring your pup along! Leashes are required, and make sure they stay on trail and out of the water! And of course, clean up after your pooch.
▪️Check out the “Loch Walks” that are hosted by a variety of ornithologists, botanists, and more.
▪️Please respect this natural space and keep it natural for years to come. Pack your trash, carpool, and leave it better than you found it.
▪️The road up is narrow and through neighborhoods. Please respect the residents and drive with caution.
