Los Alamos Reservoir
A serene mountain lake offering an easy, shaded hike with unique salamander spotting opportunities.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy the tranquility before crowds
Los Alamos Reservoir
Best Time
Enjoy the tranquility before crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene mountain lake offering an easy, shaded hike with unique salamander spotting opportunities.
"Nice easy hike with plenty of shade spots about 2 miles round trip."
🥾 Wear sturdy shoes
The trail can be rocky and the 'beach' area is gravel. Good footwear is key!
☀️ Pack for shade
Plenty of shade spots along the trail make for a pleasant hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Los Alamos Reservoir Trail
Trailhead near the reservoir
An easy, shaded 2-mile round trip hike leading to scenic views of the water.
Salamander Spotting
Shallow areas of the reservoir
Discover the unique salamanders that inhabit the reservoir's shallows.
Reservoir Overlook Bridge
Along the trail
Offers a unique perspective looking down into the reservoir.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Reservoir Access & Conditions
Wildlife & Water Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear sturdy shoes
The trail can be rocky and the 'beach' area is gravel. Good footwear is key!
☀️ Pack for shade
Plenty of shade spots along the trail make for a pleasant hike.
💧 Check water levels
Water levels can fluctuate; conditions may vary.
🚫 No fishing here
Note that the reservoir is reported to have no fish.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear sturdy shoes
The trail can be rocky and the 'beach' area is gravel. Good footwear is key!
☀️ Pack for shade
Plenty of shade spots along the trail make for a pleasant hike.
💧 Check water levels
Water levels can fluctuate; conditions may vary.
🚫 No fishing here
Note that the reservoir is reported to have no fish.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Los Alamos Reservoir for its easy, shaded hike and the unique opportunity to see salamanders in the shallows. It's a tranquil spot, often enjoyed on weekend mornings before crowds arrive. Some note the lack of fish and the gravelly terrain, suggesting appropriate footwear is a must.
"Nice easy hike with plenty of shade spots about 2 miles round trip. At the end, there's a bridge you can look down into the reservoir or walk around to the gravel "beach" and check out the salamander guys in the shallows. We had the place to ourselves on a Saturday morning"
Leanne Arvila
"Small mountain lake with no fish. ??"
Eric Battle
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Mickey w
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Los Alamos Reservoir is accessible via hiking trails near Los Alamos, New Mexico. Specific directions can be found by searching for trailheads in the area. It's often mentioned in conjunction with hikes around Los Alamos and the Jemez Mountains.
While the reservoir itself is a destination for hikers, the town of Los Alamos is known for its scientific history and is a significant location in Northern New Mexico.
Parking availability can vary, especially on weekends. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot, particularly if you plan to hike the reservoir trail.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are typically no entrance fees or tickets required for Los Alamos Reservoir itself, as it's a natural area accessed by public trails.
As a natural outdoor area, Los Alamos Reservoir is generally accessible during daylight hours. Always check local advisories for any specific restrictions.
For general hiking on established trails around Los Alamos Reservoir, permits are usually not required. However, always verify with local park authorities for any specific regulations.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The reservoir is known for its salamander population in the shallow areas. While it's a mountain lake, it's noted to have no fish.
The hike is generally described as easy and shaded, approximately 2 miles round trip. It's suitable for most fitness levels.
The overlook bridge offers a unique perspective, and the 'gravel beach' area provides opportunities to photograph the salamanders. The surrounding natural beauty is also picturesque.
Swimming is generally not recommended or permitted in Los Alamos Reservoir due to its nature as a habitat and potential water quality concerns.
Specific facilities can vary. While some reviews mention shade spots, it's advisable to come prepared with your own supplies and check local information for available amenities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Nomads
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Los Alamos Area
For those seeking outdoor adventures, the area around Los Alamos Reservoir offers various trails. The reservoir hike is noted for its shade and accessibility. Nearby, you can also find attractions like Tsankawi Village, an ancestral Pueblo site offering a glimpse into ancient history and culture. The broader Northern New Mexico region, including areas near Jemez Springs, is celebrated for its natural beauty and the welcoming nature of its people, making it a great spot for nomads and solo travelers alike. Whether you're interested in history, science, or the great outdoors, Los Alamos and its surroundings have something to offer.
Hiking and Nature at the Reservoir
When planning your visit, wearing sturdy footwear is recommended due to the trail's terrain and the gravelly nature of the shoreline. The hike is best enjoyed during cooler parts of the day, and arriving early on weekends can help you avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. The natural beauty of the area, combined with the specific ecological interest of the salamanders, makes Los Alamos Reservoir a worthwhile stop for nature enthusiasts.

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