Name: Lake Merritt Loop
Rating: 3.6

“Enjoy an urban park in the middle of beautiful Oakland.”

— Wendy Wheeler

GPX File

Features Birding · Lake

Swimming and fishing are prohibited.

Overview

This is a fresh and saltwater lake—the largest such lake located within an urban area—that has a pleasant 3.4 mile flat trail.

Need to Know

Kids love the playground, Children's Fairyland, and boating. Adults love the authentic Venetian gondola tours, birding, BBQ, music, gardens, and the lake.

Description

Starting from the angled parking near the Lakeside Demonstration Gardens, follow this obvious wide trail around the lake. The trail is flat, and there are plenty of great sights to see along the loop around Lakeside Park.

Flora & Fauna

Here you'll find the Bonsai Garden, Community/Edible Garden, Japanese Garden, Mediterranean Garden, Lakeside Palmetum, Rhododendron Garden, Sensory Garden, Succulent Garden, Vireya Display Garden, and Pollinator Garden.