Highlight • Lake
Road cycling
4.8
(19)
Cycling
5.0
(4)
Guadalupe Reservoir is a significant man-made lake nestled in Santa Clara County, California, approximately 15 miles south of the vibrant city of San Jose. Situated at an elevation of 614 feet (187 meters) along Hicks Road, this reservoir is a crucial component of the Guadalupe River watershed, primarily serving as a water storage facility for the region. Its historical construction in 1935 marked it as one of the earliest water infrastructure projects in the Santa Clara Valley.
What draws many…
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Tips
September 14, 2024
Road cycling
March 7, 2019
Road cycling
June 5, 2020
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Guadalupe Reservoir
3.4
(5)
56
riders
54.1km
02:41
450m
450m
4.9
(22)
145
riders
49.9km
02:40
720m
720m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(3)
141
riders
52.9km
03:24
1,350m
1,350m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Elevation 160 m
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Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h
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Direct hiking trails immediately surrounding Guadalupe Reservoir are limited due to its primary function as a water source and ongoing seismic upgrades to the dam. The area is more commonly used for scenic drives and road cycling along Hicks Road, which offers views of the reservoir. For dedicated hiking, you might need to explore nearby parks or open spaces in the broader Guadalupe River watershed.
The main route around Guadalupe Reservoir is Hicks Road, which is known for its winding nature and can present a challenging ride for cyclists. While it offers scenic views, riders should be prepared for varied terrain and be cautious of vehicle traffic, as it is a public road.
Hicks Road winds closely around Guadalupe Reservoir, providing several excellent vista points. Many visitors note that the entire stretch of Hicks Road offers great views of the lake. There aren't designated 'named' viewpoints, but you'll find numerous spots to pull over safely and enjoy the scenery as you drive or cycle along.
Parking availability can vary, especially during peak times. While there are spots along Hicks Road, they can fill up quickly. No specific permits are generally required for visiting the reservoir area or parking along the road, but always observe local signage for any restrictions.
Guadalupe Reservoir is located about 15 miles south of San Jose in a more rural area of Santa Clara County. Direct public transportation to the reservoir itself is generally not available. Visitors typically access the area by car or bicycle.
While the scenic drives and views can be enjoyed by families, direct recreational activities like swimming, boating, or fishing are not permitted due to water quality concerns. Families might enjoy a scenic drive, but for activities like picnicking or playgrounds, nearby regional parks would be more suitable.
Information regarding specific dog-friendly policies directly at Guadalupe Reservoir is limited. As it's primarily a water storage facility with restricted access, it's best to assume that dogs may be allowed on leash along public roads like Hicks Road, but not in restricted areas or for water access. Always check local signage for current regulations.
Guadalupe Reservoir faces significant mercury contamination from historical mining operations upstream. Due to this, the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) advises that no one should consume any fish caught from the reservoir. This contamination also limits direct water contact activities.
Guadalupe Reservoir is situated in a more rural part of Santa Clara County, so there are no immediate cafes, pubs, or accommodation options directly adjacent to the reservoir. The closest amenities would be found in the nearby city of San Jose, approximately 15 miles north.
Guadalupe Reservoir and its dam, completed in 1935, are historically significant as one of the six original water systems approved by voters in 1934. It was a crucial early infrastructure project for the Santa Clara Valley, addressing the growing demand for reliable water resources during the Great Depression era.
Guadalupe Reservoir generally remains accessible year-round, primarily for scenic drives and road cycling along Hicks Road. The area does not typically close for winter, but visitors should be mindful of weather conditions, especially potential fog or rain, which could affect road safety and visibility.
While direct access to the reservoir is restricted, the surrounding natural areas and the Guadalupe River watershed support various wildlife. You might observe common California birds, small mammals, and other local fauna. However, due to the mercury contamination, the reservoir's aquatic ecosystem is impacted, and fishing is not recommended.