Waterdog Lake & Open Space — Attraction in Belmont

Nestled in a canyon in Belmont off a fire road, the lake is a great local spot for kids to interact with fauna and hikers and cyclists to navigate the dense network of trails.

The fire road has a nice slope for running and holding pace. Some of the single track trails are steeper and more severe. I often see small groups on mountain bikes.

Dogs are allowed on the trail and the fire road is very popular for families with dogs. There are usually bags available at the trailheads at the top and bottom of the fire road trail.

There are also usually small lizards and the occasional snake along the fire road. The lake has been full of frogs the last few years which can be a fun for kids to try to catch.

The trails are generally clean but there is minimal signage once away from the lake or trailheads so study the map or bring a phone because it's surprisingly easy to get turned around and end up in the Carlmont drive canyon.

Overall, I consider WDL a local treasure for Belmont and a great, quick, and easy escape from the suburban jungle of the 101 corridor to a safe...

Shhhhhh…. Please do not tell anyone! This is a gem of an open trail that offers multiple options. I typically enter this trail from the trailhead off Hallmark in Belmont. Although parking is limited I have never seen it totally full as I have been coming here for a long time. There are two Porto-potties” just by the entrance of the trailhead. The trails are not paved and are uneven. The trail that goes straight from the gate is the gentle one and goes about 1.75 miles straight to the end. Along the half way point is the lake to your right with option of taking two narrow trails around the lake and to other parts. Explore and you will love it. Great views and very quiet. Lots of CA native plants. A few benches along the main trails. Some residential homes have their backyards landscaped to join the trail. All in all a nice hidden set of trails in the middle of the...

This hike is great. Karen and I walk here all the time and its the perfect distant and challenge for us. We'd note the time it takes to reach the top and try to beat that time on our next walks. The people we see are often wearing masks but some find the rules optional so its best to wear a mask to protect yourself. If your sticking to the right the entire time than you have the ability to maintain 6ft distance from others but if you decide to take the routes on the left, you may find yourself closer to others so keep that in mind if you have anxiety when coming in close contact with others. 5 out of 5 stars and highly recommended for hikers and...