Los Alamos Reservoir - Image 1
1 / 10

Los Alamos Reservoir

4.3
·4 reviews·, United States

A serene mountain lake offering an easy, shaded hike with unique salamander spotting opportunities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Enjoy the tranquility before crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Los Alamos Reservoir - Image 1

Los Alamos Reservoir

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Enjoy the tranquility before crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene mountain lake offering an easy, shaded hike with unique salamander spotting opportunities.

4.3
(4 reviews)

"Nice easy hike with plenty of shade spots about 2 miles round trip."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Los Alamos Reservoir Trail

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

Salamander Spotting

Shallow areas of the reservoir

Discover the unique salamanders that inhabit the reservoir's shallows.

Reservoir Overlook Bridge

Reservoir Overlook Bridge

Along the trail

Offers a unique perspective looking down into the reservoir.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Reservoir Access & Conditions

Check recent conditions before you go, as access can vary. While some find it an easy hike, others note the 'gravel beach' can be tricky. Pack accordingly for changing weather in the mountains.

Wildlife & Water Safety

While the reservoir is known for salamanders, it's noted to have no fish. Be mindful of wildlife and water safety, especially if exploring the shallows or crossing bridges.

Best Times

When
Saturday mornings
Why
Enjoy the tranquility before crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer visitors, more peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#us #newmexico #foryou
@pxmxieawsmy16
10.3K likes • 255.4K views

🥾 Wear sturdy shoes

The trail can be rocky and the 'beach' area is gravel. Good footwear is key! Instagram

☀️ Pack for shade

Plenty of shade spots along the trail make for a pleasant hike. Reddit

The people 💖💖💖 #nomadlife #santafe #newmexico #solotravel
@blissjams
4.1K likes • 52.2K views
Los Alamos Reservoir. 12-13-24.
willyapgar86
102 likes • 2.3K views

💧 Check water levels

Water levels can fluctuate; conditions may vary. Instagram

🚫 No fishing here

Note that the reservoir is reported to have no fish. Reddit

More from Sunday in Los Alamos, New Mexico. Climbed to Natural Arch and hiked to the Dam and Reservoir #losalamos #newmexico #outdoors #hike #hikemore #hikemoreworryless #hikevibes #nomadlife #nomadiclife #nomadcouple #adventure #adventuretime #adventurecouple #travelcouple #goexplore #wanderlust #wanderout #newmexicohiking
went_wandering
36 likes • 1.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Wear sturdy shoes

The trail can be rocky and the 'beach' area is gravel. Good footwear is key! Instagram

☀️ Pack for shade

Plenty of shade spots along the trail make for a pleasant hike. Reddit

💧 Check water levels

Water levels can fluctuate; conditions may vary. Instagram

🚫 No fishing here

Note that the reservoir is reported to have no fish. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(4 reviews)

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

""

Mickey w

What People Like

Easy, shaded hike
Salamander spotting
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

No fish reported
Gravelly shoreline

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

Parking availability can vary, especially on weekends. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot, particularly if you plan to hike the reservoir trail. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

As a natural outdoor area, Los Alamos Reservoir is generally accessible during daylight hours. Always check local advisories for any specific restrictions. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ 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. Reddit

The hike is generally described as easy and shaded, approximately 2 miles round trip. It's suitable for most fitness levels. Reddit

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. Instagram+1

Swimming is generally not recommended or permitted in Los Alamos Reservoir due to its nature as a habitat and potential water quality concerns. Instagram

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Los Alamos Reservoir offers a manageable and engaging outdoor experience for families. The 2-mile shaded trail is generally considered easy, making it suitable for younger hikers.Reddit The unique opportunity to spot salamanders in the shallow waters can be a highlight for children, turning the visit into a mini-wildlife adventure. It's a great way to introduce kids to local ecosystems in a safe and accessible environment. Remember to pack snacks and water, and ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for the gravelly areas.Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Nomads

For solo travelers and digital nomads exploring New Mexico, Los Alamos Reservoir provides a peaceful natural escape. The easy hike and tranquil atmosphere offer a chance to disconnect and enjoy the scenery.Instagram The area around Los Alamos is also known for its friendly locals, which can enhance the experience for those traveling alone.TikTok It's a good spot for a quiet morning or afternoon walk, offering a break from more bustling tourist destinations.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Los Alamos Area

Los Alamos Reservoir is situated in a region rich with history and natural beauty. The town of Los Alamos itself is famously known as the 'Atomic City,' home to the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), which played a pivotal role in the Manhattan Project during World War II.TikTok Visitors interested in this history can explore exhibits and learn about the scientific breakthroughs that occurred here. Beyond the scientific legacy, the area is surrounded by stunning New Mexico landscapes, including the Valles Caldera National Preserve, a massive volcanic crater offering breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.TikTok This unique combination of scientific heritage and natural wonders makes the Los Alamos region a compelling destination.

For those seeking outdoor adventures, the area around Los Alamos Reservoir offers various trails. The reservoir hike is noted for its shade and accessibility.Reddit Nearby, you can also find attractions like Tsankawi Village, an ancestral Pueblo site offering a glimpse into ancient history and culture.TikTok 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.TikTok 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

The Los Alamos Reservoir trail is a popular choice for a relatively easy and scenic hike. Described as a 2-mile round trip with plenty of shade, it's an accessible option for many visitors.Reddit The trail leads to the reservoir itself, where you can find a 'gravel beach' area. This shallow section is particularly interesting for its salamander population, offering a unique wildlife viewing opportunity.Reddit While the reservoir is a beautiful natural spot, it's important to note that it is reported to have no fish.Reddit

When planning your visit, wearing sturdy footwear is recommended due to the trail's terrain and the gravelly nature of the shoreline.Instagram 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.Reddit 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.

You may also like

1 of 2