The best walks and hikes around San Leandro
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1,782
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Hikes around San Leandro offer a mix of coastal and inland scenery, from paved shoreline paths along the San Francisco Bay to dirt trails in the rolling hills. The area is defined by the large reservoir in Lake Chabot Regional Park, which provides numerous waterside routes, and the flat, open spaces of Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline. The trail network includes both easy, level paths suitable for all abilities and more challenging routes with significant elevation gain.
Best hiking trails around San Leandro
- The most popular hiking route is Lake Chabot loop via West Shore and East Shore Trails β Lake Chabot Regional Park, a 8.9 mile (14.4 km) trail that takes around 4 hours to complete. This moderate hike circumnavigates the reservoir, combining paved and unpaved sections.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is East Shore Trail from Lake Chabot Marina β Lake Chabot Regional Park, an easy 3.4 mile (5.5 km) path. This out-and-back route follows the paved eastern edge of the lake.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the East Shore Trail and Ten Hills Trail loop β Lake Chabot Regional Park, a 9.6 mile (15.5 km) trail leading through the hills east of the reservoir, often completed in about 4 hours 20 minutes.
- Hiking around San Leandro is defined by lakeside trails, rolling East Bay hills, and flat shoreline paths with views of the bay. The network of routes provides options for different fitness levels, from short, paved walks to longer, more strenuous loops.
- The routes in San Leandro are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 80 reviews. More than 1,300 hikers have used komoot to explore San Leandro's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
9
hikers
9.01km
02:16
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
13.7km
03:28
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.49km
00:53
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.93km
00:34
70m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(11)
110
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This 30-acre waterside park has something for everyone! You'll find a playground, covered picnic area, a 1 mile workout trail, and great views over the water.
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There is a clearing in the trees that gives you a great view of Lake Chabot.
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You may find yourself sharing the West Shore Trail with bikers, joggers, inline skaters and other walkers. The paved trail is wide enough to view and even runs past the dam and spillway at one corner of Lake Chabot.
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The East Shore Trail along Lake Chabot is a 3.6-mile out-and-back paved trail with beautiful views of Lake Chabot. This trail has benches along the route, and conveniently located bathrooms can be found about every half mile.
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Lake Chabot Marina is a scenic area that has boating, bike paths, and over a dozen hiking trails. Visitors can rent boats, fish, and kayak in the lake. There is a cafe here, or just vending machines for snacks, restaurants, and picnic areas.
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Lake Chabot Marina is a scenic area with boasts, bike paths, and over a dozen hiking trails. Visitors can rent boats, fish, and kayak in the lake. There is a cafe here, or just vending machines for a snack, restaurants, and picnic areas.
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The trails around Lake Chabot almost all provide great views over the water, but this is a particularly nice view. You can see the bright waters of the lake straight through the foliage of several trees.
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The East Shore Trail of Lake Chabot is a multi-use trail, which means you may find yourself sharing the mostly paved surface with bikers, rollerbladers, joggers and other walkers. However, the views over the lake are phenomenal, you can find spots of shade here even on hot, sunny days, and there are outhouses and benches spaced along the trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in San Leandro?
Yes, many trails in the San Leandro area are dog-friendly, but rules vary. For instance, at Lake Chabot Regional Park, dogs are generally permitted but must be on a leash in developed areas like picnic sites and parking lots. For off-leash fun, Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline offers a designated off-leash area in the central part of the park, making it a popular choice for dog owners.
What are some easy, family-friendly hikes in the area?
For a gentle and scenic walk suitable for all ages, the East Shore Trail from Lake Chabot Marina is an excellent choice. It's a relatively flat, paved path that follows the edge of the water, offering beautiful lake views without any strenuous climbs.
Where can I find a good circular hike that isn't too long?
If you're looking for a manageable loop, consider the East Shore Trail to Cameron Loop Trail. This route combines a pleasant lakeside path with a gentle climb into the hills, providing a nice variety of scenery in a shorter distance compared to the full lake loop.
Which trails offer the best views of the San Francisco Bay?
For expansive, panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay and the nearby airport, head to Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline. The main loop trail is mostly paved and relatively flat, making the stunning coastal scenery accessible to walkers and cyclists of all abilities.
What are the parking and fee situations at the main parks?
Most regional parks have fees for parking or entry, which support trail maintenance. For example, Lake Chabot Regional Park typically charges a vehicle entry fee, especially on weekends and holidays. It's always a good idea to bring cash, as not all kiosks accept cards. Arriving early is also recommended to secure a parking spot, particularly on sunny weekends.
Are there any paved trails suitable for strollers or wheelchairs?
Yes, several parks offer paved trails. The West Shore Trail to Chabot Dam and Spillway is a good option, as it's a paved path along the lake. Additionally, the main loop at Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline and the paths at Marina Park are paved and generally flat, making them accessible.
How many hiking trails are available around San Leandro?
There is a wide variety of trails to explore, with over 75 distinct routes available on komoot. These range from easy shoreline walks to challenging hill climbs, offering plenty of options for hikers of all fitness levels.
What do other hikers say about the trails in San Leandro?
The trails around San Leandro are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars. Hikers frequently praise the beautiful lake views within Lake Chabot Regional Park and the well-maintained, accessible paths along the shoreline.
Are there any good spots for trail running?
Absolutely. The relatively flat and paved paths at Marina Park and Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline are perfect for a scenic run with bay views. For those seeking more of a challenge with hills, the extensive network of dirt trails in Lake Chabot Regional Park, such as the East Shore Trail and Ten Hills Trail loop, provides excellent terrain for trail runners.
Where can I find a cafe or place to eat after a hike at Lake Chabot?
After exploring the trails at Lake Chabot Regional Park, you can visit the cafe located near the marina. It's a convenient spot to grab a drink or a bite to eat while enjoying the lakeside atmosphere.
Are there any waterfalls on the trails near San Leandro?
The primary natural features around San Leandro are the bay shoreline and Lake Chabot reservoir. While the trails offer fantastic water views, the local East Bay hills are not known for significant waterfalls, especially during the dry season. Hikes here are best for enjoying lakeside and bay vistas.
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