Near Briones Reservoir Loop Trail
Briones Reservoir from Bear Creek Trail.
Near Briones Reservoir Loop Trail
Briones Reservoir from Oursan Trail.

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Hike Route

Briones Reservoir Loop Trail

3.9 (7 Ratings)
A great long hike around Briones Reservoir.
13.2
mi
Distance
1,801
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
LakeLakefrontViewsWildflowers

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
13.17mi
Distance
1,801ft
Elevation Gain
1,801ft
Elevation Loss
45%
Max Grade
1,010ft
High Point
564ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
From the Overlook Staging Area parking area, jump on the Bear Creek Trail for a short spell before you reach Oursan Trail. On the Oursan Trail cross the dam and begin a mellow climb into the hillsides above the reservoir. The wildflowers in the springtime can be amazing here. You'll dip into the woods for a little less than a mile bfore coming back out into the meadows. Make sure you protect yourself from the sun. The Oursan Trail dips back down toward the water and parallels the shore all the way to the Bear Creek Staging Area. From there, jump on Bear Creek Trail and follow it along the waters edge heading west. This trail is a bit more forested and offers more shade. Follow this all the way back to your start point.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Liz