Upper Otay Lake - Image 1
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Upper Otay Lake

4.8
·12 reviews·, United States

A serene San Diego gem with scenic trails for walking, biking, and fishing, offering peaceful nature escapes and beautiful dam views.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring afternoons

Gorgeous weather, quiet nature

CrowdLow
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Upper Otay Lake - Image 1

Upper Otay Lake

Best Time

Spring afternoons

Gorgeous weather, quiet nature

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene San Diego gem with scenic trails for walking, biking, and fishing, offering peaceful nature escapes and beautiful dam views.

4.8
(12 reviews)

"This place was so beautiful and serene. Went about 2hrs before sunset and had the place to ourselves."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎣 Get Your Lake Permit

Beyond a CA fishing license, a separate lake permit is needed. Check the City of San Diego's lakes schedule. :admission_tickets:

🚫 Avoid Toll Roads

Disable toll road settings on GPS to save money. Free routes are readily available to reach the lake. :car:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scenic Trails

Scenic Trails

Surrounding hills and dam

Explore vibrant trails for jogging, running, walking, or biking amidst serene hills. Find your balance in nature.

Reddit
Tranquil Sunset Views

Tranquil Sunset Views

Lakeside

Experience a beautiful and serene atmosphere, especially around sunset. Enjoy the quiet nature with few crowds.

Reddit
Potential for Big Bass

Potential for Big Bass

Lake waters

Anglers report the possibility of catching large bass in the lake, making it a tempting spot for fishing enthusiasts.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Fishing Permits & Access

A California fishing license is required, but you'll also need a separate lake permit for Otay Lakes Reservoir. Check the City of San Diego's lakes schedule for operating hours and permit information before you go. Reddit

Navigating to the Lake

When using GPS, disable toll road options to avoid unexpected fees. Several free routes are available to reach Upper Otay Lake, ensuring a budget-friendly visit. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring afternoons
Why
Gorgeous weather, quiet nature
Crowd
Low
When
2 hours before sunset
Why
Serene atmosphere, fewer people
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Lower Otay Lakes.

🎣 Get Your Lake Permit

Beyond a CA fishing license, a separate lake permit is needed. Check the City of San Diego's lakes schedule. Reddit :admission_tickets:

🚫 Avoid Toll Roads

Disable toll road settings on GPS to save money. Free routes are readily available to reach the lake. Reddit :car:

reddit.com

Do you need a Lake permit to fish in Otay Lakes Reservoir or does a CA fish license suffice?

reddit.com

Where do people go mountain biking around San Diego?

🐾 Leashed Dogs Welcome

Bring your furry friends along for the hike, but ensure they are kept on a leash at all times. Reddit :dog:

✍️ Add to the Dam's Beauty

Bring a thick marker to add your mark to the dam's beauty, a unique interactive element. Reddit :marker:

Tips

from all over the internet

🎣 Get Your Lake Permit

Beyond a CA fishing license, a separate lake permit is needed. Check the City of San Diego's lakes schedule. Reddit :admission_tickets:

🚫 Avoid Toll Roads

Disable toll road settings on GPS to save money. Free routes are readily available to reach the lake. Reddit :car:

🐾 Leashed Dogs Welcome

Bring your furry friends along for the hike, but ensure they are kept on a leash at all times. Reddit :dog:

✍️ Add to the Dam's Beauty

Bring a thick marker to add your mark to the dam's beauty, a unique interactive element. Reddit :marker:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(12 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Upper Otay Lake for its beautiful, serene atmosphere and vibrant trails perfect for walking, jogging, and biking. It's highlighted as a hidden gem for finding balance in nature, especially during quiet afternoons and sunsets. Some note the potential for large bass catches, though fishing permits are required. Reddit

"Its a nice and vibrant lake sorrounded by trails and hills that you can jogg, run, walk or ride a bike. I started my jogg in by the Rolling Hills Trails and continued on to the lake and it was a actually a very fun experinece. I would recommend everyone to try all trails its a nice place to find your balance. I be back soon."

Descendencia De Rancho

"This place was so beautiful and serene. Went about 2hrs before sunset and had the place to ourselves. The spring weather was gorgeous. I recommend this to anyone wanting to take a nice walk in quiet nature."

Stephanie (Rinoa)

"heard there some big bass in here"

Jnk

What People Like

Beautiful and serene atmosphere
Vibrant walking and biking trails
Quiet nature escape

What People Dislike

Requires separate lake permit for fishing

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

To reach Upper Otay Lake, it's recommended to disable toll road options in your GPS settings to avoid extra charges. Several free routes are available. Parking is conveniently located at the base of the trail. Reddit

Information regarding public transport accessibility to Upper Otay Lake is limited. Driving is the most common and recommended method of access. Reddit

Parking is available right at the trail base, making it easy to start your exploration of the lake and surrounding areas. Reddit

Yes, some routes might direct you to toll roads. It's crucial to turn off the toll road option in your GPS settings to avoid paying $5.00 each way. Reddit

The initial walk from the parking area to the lake is described as being all uphill, but it transitions to a downhill path afterward. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, in addition to a California fishing license, you will need a separate lake permit to fish at Otay Lakes Reservoir. It's advised to check the City of San Diego lakes schedule for details. Reddit

Operating hours can vary. It's best to consult the City of San Diego lakes schedule for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times. Reddit

While specific entrance fees for general access aren't always detailed, a separate lake permit is required for fishing. Check with the City of San Diego for current fee structures. Reddit

Information on purchasing permits directly on-site is not widely available. It's recommended to check the City of San Diego's official channels for permit acquisition procedures. Reddit

General entry is usually permitted for recreational activities like hiking and walking. Specific restrictions might apply to fishing or other activities, so checking the official schedule is advised. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Upper Otay Lake is ideal for jogging, running, walking, and biking on its surrounding trails. Anglers can also try their luck fishing for bass. Reddit

Yes, dogs are welcome at Upper Otay Lake, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Reddit

The area features hills with trails. The initial walk from the parking area is uphill, followed by downhill sections, offering varied terrain for exploration. Reddit

Absolutely. Visitors describe it as a beautiful and serene place, perfect for quiet nature walks, especially in the late afternoon before sunset. Reddit

Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring a thick marker and add to the beauty of the dam, making for a unique interactive experience. Reddit

🎫 🎣 Fishing at Upper Otay Lake

There are reports of big bass being present in Upper Otay Lake, making it a potential spot for bass fishing enthusiasts. Reddit

You'll need both a California fishing license and a separate lake permit for Otay Lakes Reservoir. Always check local regulations for any specific rules. Reddit

While not as widely publicized as some other spots, the mention of big bass suggests it's a worthwhile destination for local anglers seeking a good catch. Reddit

Specific best times for fishing aren't detailed, but generally, early mornings and late afternoons can be productive for bass fishing. Always check current conditions. Reddit

Details on specific fishing amenities like piers or boat rentals are scarce. It's primarily known for shore fishing and the potential for a good catch. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Upper Otay Lake offers a wonderful outdoor experience for families. The trails are suitable for walking and light jogging, making them accessible for children. Dogs are welcome, provided they are leashed, which can be a fun addition for families with pets. The initial uphill walk might be a bit challenging for very young children, but the subsequent downhill sections offer a more relaxed pace. Reddit

Pack some snacks and water, as amenities might be limited. The serene atmosphere makes it a great place for kids to enjoy nature without overwhelming crowds, especially during off-peak hours. The unique opportunity to add to the dam's beauty with a marker can also be an engaging activity for children. Reddit

🎣 Anglers Seeking Bass

If you're a fishing enthusiast looking for bass, Upper Otay Lake is worth considering. Reports suggest the presence of 'big bass,' offering the potential for a rewarding fishing trip. Remember that a California fishing license is mandatory, and you'll also need a specific lake permit for Otay Lakes Reservoir. Reddit

It's advisable to check the City of San Diego's lakes schedule for the latest on fishing regulations and permit requirements. While specific fishing amenities aren't widely advertised, the natural environment provides a peaceful setting for casting a line. Early mornings or late afternoons are often prime times for bass fishing. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature Walkers & Hikers

For those seeking a peaceful nature walk or a moderate hike, Upper Otay Lake is an excellent choice. The surrounding trails offer beautiful scenery and a chance to de-stress. The varied terrain, from uphill climbs to downhill paths, provides a good workout and enjoyable exploration. Reddit

Visiting a couple of hours before sunset is particularly recommended for a serene experience with fewer people. The trails are also dog-friendly (on leash), making it ideal for solo walkers or those with pets. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes and bring water for your excursion. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails of Upper Otay Lake

Upper Otay Lake is surrounded by a network of trails that offer a refreshing escape into nature. These paths are ideal for a variety of activities, from a brisk jog to a leisurely walk or a bike ride. The terrain varies, with an initial uphill climb from the parking area that rewards visitors with scenic vistas before transitioning to more gentle downhill sections. Many visitors find these trails to be a great place to 'find your balance' and connect with the outdoors. Reddit

The trails are also dog-friendly, provided your canine companions are kept on a leash. This makes it a perfect spot for those who want to include their pets in their outdoor adventures. The surrounding hills provide a beautiful backdrop, making every step a visually pleasing experience. Remember to check the weather and wear appropriate footwear for the varied terrain. Reddit

One unique aspect mentioned is the opportunity to 'add to the beauty of the Dam' by using a thick marker. This interactive element offers a personal touch to the visit and is a quirky detail that sets Upper Otay Lake apart. It’s a reminder that even seemingly natural landscapes can have elements of human interaction and creativity. Reddit

Fishing Prospects at Upper Otay Lake

For anglers, Upper Otay Lake holds the promise of exciting catches, particularly for bass. There are whispers among visitors about the presence of 'big bass' in the lake, making it a compelling destination for those looking to test their skills. The serene environment of the lake adds to the appeal, offering a peaceful setting for a day of fishing. Reddit

It's important to note that fishing at Otay Lakes Reservoir, which includes Upper Otay Lake, requires more than just a standard California fishing license. Visitors must also obtain a separate lake permit. It is highly recommended to consult the City of San Diego's lakes schedule for the most current information regarding permits, regulations, and any specific fishing seasons or restrictions that may be in place. Reddit

While detailed information on fishing amenities like piers or boat rentals is not readily available, the lake's reputation for potentially large bass suggests that shore fishing can be quite rewarding. Planning your visit with the necessary permits and understanding the local fishing conditions will enhance your experience. Reddit

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