Nice five mile loop for walkers and distance runners. Not too hilly, but don't get overconfident because there are many switchbacks. There's usually a breeze by the lake, still pack your hats and sunscreen since shade is rare along the trail. There are few cars along the path, and some days you'll see people picnicking and fishing or goats grazing in the upper pasture near the parking lot. Plentiful parking, bathrooms and picnic benches make this a good spot for all. read more

Great lake to walk around! A mere 5 miles will take around Lake Miramar. You start off by parking in their quite large parking lot. You head off in the direction everyone else is walking in and suddenly you will find yourself on the walking path. There are two paths (the trails and the paved road). The paved road, warns you as you approach the 1.5 or 2 miles mark, this is a good point to turn around is you are getting tired. I suggest slowing down if you are getting tired and picking up the pace once you regain energy. The lake itself is beautiful with lots of natural beauty from the lake, various birds and fauna. There are shady parts along the path along with sunny parts. All in all a great lake for a leisure active walk. read more

My friends and I went on a 5-mile walk along the paved trail this past Sunday morning. They have a natural path and a paved one, and we chose the paved trail. Since it was MLK weekend, it was rather crowded. I arrived at 8am and after circling around the small and large parking lots, I ended up having to park down the hill alongside the road. The walk up wasn't too bad. I really liked the trail. It was mostly flat, and wrapped around the lake so the view was pretty. We started our walk at 8:20am and finished at 10:05am. I will be coming back more now that I know this nice trail is practically in my backyard! The trail is considered easy and you can walk, run, or bike. The road is wide and evenly paved. One thing worth noting is the limited shaded areas, so be sure to bring your hat and wear sunscreen! Before the start of the trail, there is an area with picnic tables overlooking the lake. I noticed there were boat rentals too. This is a nice area to have a picnic. During our walk, we saw people fishing too. Parking is typically spacious with a small lot on your left as you enter the gate, and a much larger lot if you keep driving straight ahead. read more

Lake Miramar - Lakes Near Me - San Diego, California

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Nice easy lake to walk, run or bike around. It's mostly flat, about 5 miles long. It gets crowded on weekend mornings but I have never gone when there was no parking. It's mostly in the sun with very minimal shade-definitely wear a hat. Definitely somewhere I visit several times a month. read more

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Coming here still is perfection. I love the 5 mile loop for riding my bike, going for a causal walk, having my son ride his bike as I walk, or just to catch up with friends. The pathway is well paved overall and easy to navigate. Be on the lookout for people that are walking if you're biking or people that are driving. Also, there are children so watch out for them! Lovely place to go with family or friends to be in nature and catch up! read more

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04-16-2025 What an amazing day to take a 5 mile stroll and enjoy beautiful wild flowers! read more

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This is my favorite spot to walk my dog. I came here earlier today and we love it. I've been coming here for the past maybe 10 to 15 years or more. My dog is five years old and I can we just love this place. I think it's about 4 to 5 miles loop around you can take the trail route or just the regular road. Great place to watch the sunset as well. Very peaceful. We also like to watch the ducks. read more

I've been going to Lake Miramar for the past 9-10 years now. It's a beautiful looped, paved trail around the lake (approximately 5 miles with mile markers along the way). Since coming here, it's gotten better with boat rentals now available, more picnic tables at the entrance (front) and honestly, it just feels safer with so many people coming here. It's that popular. There are bikers, strollers, rollerblading, boaters (I haven't seen kayaks or SUP - I'm not sure if that's allowed) and an occasionally "park" car coming here. The path is completely paved and the shrubs/ greenery maintained so that it doesn't overtake the paved trail. At the start of the trail you can also take the stairs down to the water. Dogs are not allowed near the water and must be leashed at all time. Parking is plentiful and free! Take note of where you park your car as I've seen so many people lose sight of where they've parked. read more

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A long overdue update.... I've been coming to Lake Miramar on and off for close to 15 years now. I've trained for half marathons here, pushed baby strollers with friends, family bike rides, and mostly recently a long walk with our new family pup. Hands down, it one of my favorite spots in San Diego. There's a mix of sun and shade. It's paved all the way around with plenty of dog trash stations. The whole loop is 4.9 miles and there are mile markers along the way. Highly recommend this spot. read more

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Very nice place, you can jog or walk around the lake. Too hot to walk around it that day. It was recommended by the Hotel manager where we stayed at. read more

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I adore this lake, its such a good walking workout since its 5 miles long, it's paved and comfortable to walk on, there are plenty of people around, and porta-potties placed periodically around the lake. And of course, I always love a good walk near both mountainous areas AND a body of water, call it feng shui hahah. It is also conveniently located near all the yummy restaurants in Mira Mesa XD, so I always get myself something good to eat afterwards. Be mindful of cars, as they have access to the road on some parts around the lake. Parking can be a bit annoying on weekends but there is usually a lot of turnover, so to speak. A bit of patience and you can get a spot for sure. Be mindful of the signs regarding when the gates and dam access open/close, as people have gotten locked in or out! read more

This is a pretty lovely place to walk and have a picnic at. We came here around 9am, chose a table under the shade -- which overlooked the Lake. It looked stunning, the reflections, the colors, the birds, etc. It was so lively and packed on a Sunday morning. People walking dogs, riding bikes, scooters, jogging, etc. They have so many amenities that I didn't check out. I think that's for another day. They have lots of trash cans and recycling bins which promotes keeping the environment clean. They even had newly painted coal pits. The reason why I gave Lake Miramar 4 stars and not five is because while we were walking the loop. Several cars were passing us from behind. This is already a popular and active spot for people and adding cars to the mix makes you double take when you're walking. There were no signs at the beginning that stated cars were allowed so I was a bit shocked to see them behind me. I think I would enjoy walking the loop more without the frequent checks and worry about a car coming. read more

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Nice flat walk about 5 miles. 2 hours at an easy pace Closed 1st Tuesday of each month read more

Really nice area for a hike. It is a 5 mile loop around the lake that is entirely paved. Mild elevation, easy hike, some parts have trees that provide shade but most of it doesn't have shade. Lots of cute photo spots and lovely eucalyptus smell along parts of the trail. Thing to note- the access via the dam closes at 5:30 pm so if you are starting the 5 mile loop later in the day, get in via the dam side so you don't get locked in after 5:30 pm. The area does close at 6 pm so be mindful of that. Lovely hike! read more

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This is a great spot to get your weekly running done. One lap around the lake is 5 miles, and there are markers for every quarter mile going both ways. Other runners and bikers are friendly for the most part. There are nice views of the lake and surrounding towns. Some parts can be hilly, with the elevation gain around 30 feet. There are a few negatives though - people bring their dogs but apparently not their poop bags. Sometimes there are cars that drive by you so you have to keep a look out. And it can take a while to find a parking spot during popular times on weekend mornings. read more

With it being gorgeous out in San Diego this week and we are always looking for a place to go on an outdoor walk! We decided to head over to Lake Miramar which I had done in the past but it has been awhile. It is nice that there is a big parking lot for you to park at the start of the trail. I didn't know that when the little office is open you can rent stuff for the little lake to go kayaking or fishing! The whole loop is about 5 miles so it is a wonderful walk or work out. read more

Dock under construction 5/19/24. Beautiful place to walk or ride your bike. Lots of parking. No swimming but fishing is allowed. read more

Lake Miramar - Lakes Near Me - San Diego, California

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Love this trial it is a beast of a walk if you do it in one stretch with kids. We decided to do it with our toddler and she was completely wiped. Alone it's pretty easy we love coming here. Very family friendly but recommend doing partial if coming with small children. There is plenty of parking and there is accessible port a potty's not the cleanest but at least there is an option to go in case of an emergency. We've done this walk numerous times and absolutely love it. Great beginner family friendly trail close to the city. read more

Lake Miramar - Lakes Near Me - San Diego, California

Gem of a spot to get out and enjoy the outdoors. Love the local vibe and everyone is out to move thief body. Clean space with restrooms and the entry. Lots of parking and you can bike, run or walk around the lake. Wish we would have brought a snack to stop and eat at the lake. read more

We have been coming to Lake Miramar for decades and it has changed a lot over the years and gotten more crowded. However, it is still a great place to go for a walk, run, ride, skate, picnick, fishing, or use the lake. Over the years they have added outhouses/porta potties around the paved trail/road that goes around the lake, which is a very nice addition. There are also standard bathrooms at the main parking lot near the entrance. There is also now a lower unpaved trail that goes around the lake that is closer to the water. A new picnick area (there are also barbecue grills at the entrance and this spot) is about half way around the lake from the main lot. You may be able to drive there now or to some of the finishing spots--ask for that and the boat rentals at the buildings near the parking lot. As you can see in the photos, there are some wildlife that you might see on the trail or in the lake, such as ducks. The lake is a working resivoir/water supply for the surrounding area so it is important to obey posted signs not to contaminate it. The main paved path around the lake should be about 5 miles. So plan your running, walking, biking according for your pace. Overall, we definitely recommend Lake Miramar for the above listed activites and hope you have a great time there if you decide to visit. read more

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I was introduced to Cyclin by a real good friend over a decade ago. He may not know it, but he inspired me for many things and we may be distant, his grounded enthusiasm and "tends to be right most of the time intellect," will not be forgotten, I hope I do him justice by investing a years worth of saving to upgrade from a Costco Mountain bike equipped with a grocery basket to my current Canon Dale blue brown speeder. This place allows cars to drive to the pier that's situated about 2 miles circumnavigating the entirety of the lake. So, their paved 5 mile stretch with some breathtaking slight downhill turns and twist dappled with sun lighted road, also rolling micro hills that may make you grit your teeth for the climb but gently greets your senses with a nature filled breeze that makes you want to hurry towards the next crest. Fishing, plenty of parking (well, kind of...definitely first come first serve but a little patience and you'll persevere), an area to dock and release small skiffs and canoes, bathroom, benches and grills, and last time I was there I believe I saw bicycle rentals. So you know they may have a bait and tackle shop for that fresh water enthusiast. My investment in my Speeder and the perfect 5-mile track; blissful and grounding in our community of steadily rising prices for unimproved foods and services. I am just glad they did not claim that Lake Miramar now requires the covering of a small fee for entry. This place needs to be maintained by our State and City and should be kept away from residential tycoons and advantageous "money over everything-types." Please stay the same, but continue to uphold what I believe Mira Mesa was originally on track to become... a community that appreciates it's identity and still nursing its scars with a positive outlook. Hopefully there's Leaders that wish to blend reasonable capitalizing with responsible accountability of the community's upbringing. A tough request, but one I make without compromise. Oh, and if you've never seen clouds passing over the whole Mira Mesa to almost Sorrento Valley. This is a free spot to witness a true Blessing. And the people that come here are active-lifestyle advocates and family-oriented, so let's keep this a safe haven for that mentality! Always returning, thanks for all that you do City Workers and Caretakers!! read more

Lake Miramar - Aside from the time it took to find parking, this place is great for free Nature time in Mira Mesa. - Lakes Near Me - San Diego, California

parking: there's a big parking lot! I've never had trouble finding a spot, but I can see it being more difficult during peak hours main takeaway: the lake is a great place to take a walk, bike or run. there's also tables scattered near the parking area for picnics or rest areas. note: the trail is roughly five miles so it takes about 90 minutes to walk it read more

Lake Miramar can be the nature destination for an individual of any fitness level. There were picnic benches and barbecue grills throughout the path for those that want to just eat in the great outdoors. I walked the 5 mile route and passed by runners as well as families with strollers. A couple of cyclists sped by, and the road had plenty of space for everyone. There apparently are also horse riders, because I accidentally stepped in a giant pile of horse poop when I wandered off the asphalt to take a closer look at some flowers :( I read that there were kayak rentals but did not look into it that day because it was not a free experience. I will likely come back in the future and try out these activities Shade: There actually was shade throughout the path. We went at the end of June, at our usual 8AM hike time. Both of us brought 1 water bottle each, sunglasses, and wore Tshirts with shorts. Weather is variable on a year-to-year basis, but in June 2022, the hike was very comfortable that morning. Parking: We arrived around 8AM and decided to do street parking because we could not immediately figure out if there was a lot. read more

Lake Miramar - Entrance - Lakes Near Me - San Diego, California

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Very nice lake worth great views of the water. Very relaxing and peaceful. We wanted to rent a power boat but their power boats were down. Only suggestion I have is get new power boats and have more than just one. This is a very nice lake and I am more than sure they would be rented out all the time. The lake is very calming and relaxing. You could literally just float on the lake for hours and fall asleep and chill. I would suggest something with a covered top because it gets very hot! I would not suggest any boat without a cover bc you wills get burnt like a crispy critter lol. We got the paddle boat and let me tell you , you better be in shape. It's a hell of a workout. You better have some strong legs. We typically always rent power boats. Never paddle boats. It was fun but a ton of work. If you have never been to this lake it's definitely worth checking out. We really enjoyed it and will be back. Also you can rent bikes if you want too. They have snacks as well for purchase. You can run around the 5 mile loop as well. This will be a go to spot for us. read more

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I am currently locked inside the lake with a few other people. They don't mess around about closing the gate at the posted time. I looked up and saw 50 cars while talking to my brother. Looked up again and saw 4 . read more

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I've never fished this lake, but there's a nice paved path good for walking or biking all the way around. Plenty of parking in the lot read more

Amazing spot to get a good workout in. The path around the lake is great for a walk or a run. It's about 5 miles in total and great for a lazy day when you don't feel like working out. read more

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Great 5 mile paved walk but too dangerous for families with young kids on scooters or bikes with training wheels. Unfortunately, the people that manage this recreational park still allow cars to share the road with mostly road walkers and bikers. Even though the speed limit was dropped from 15 mph to 10, cars were still going too fast. Fortunately my kids are a little older now, but for those families with small kids the parents were always scared when car drove by. - The 5 mile loops has with very mild hills. - The path is perfect for biking, learing to bike, strollering, skating, scootering, walking and jogging. - Very crowded on weekends. - Lots of people miss the turnoff.. So drive slow when you get close to it.. - Porta-potties every mile or so.. (Watch out for brown snakes inside) read more

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Such a great day when you come to this lake! Plenty of runners, walkers, biking, roller skating, and fishing! It is paved so you can bring strollers, wheel chairs and crocs very minimal shade, and it get HOT! Go early and enjoy the cool air. Make sure you at this to one of your top to do list outside activities! One big loop 5miles I believe (depending on where you parked) They have an area where you can bring canoes and kayaks. read more

Lake Miramar - Lakes Near Me - San Diego, California

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Runners Paradise! Come here for all your running, biking, or walking needs or just basically to get out of your house and enjoy the nice beautiful San Diego sunshine 365 days a year. The lake is nestled off of the 15 and provides tons of fun for all your outdoor pleasures. Parking can be tight especially early in the morning and on weekends so I suggest you to come early to find great parking in the limited parking they do have. They have restrooms on site where they are constantly cleaning them and refilling the toiletries such as soap and toilet paper. There is also benches to sit back and relax under the huge shaded trees and they also have beautiful wildlife such as birds, squirrels, and my all time favorite ducks! The lake is centered in the middle with cement surrounding the lake where runners take off on the track to rack up miles or try to beat their previous times. While running the trail you experience the beautiful nature San Diego offers outside of the hustling bustling busy city life. The trail is approximately 5 miles long all around the lake and at the end you are in for a quite surprise by viewing the hillside of the city Miramar. Great lake to visit if your into outdoor activities or even fishing where they have a fishing pier onsite as well. I definitely recommend this lake to visit for running or biking and even walking if your the type who wants to hop on the trail and go without worrying if a car is going to hit you or you just want to be around fellow athletes in a safe environment. Over all woo-hoo as good as it gets! read more

Lake Miramar - Runners paradise - Lakes Near Me - San Diego, California

Covid or no Covid one has to be out and about. Lake Miramar is a mix use facility... crawl, walk, run, or bike you can do it on this five mile loop. I like it since it is pretty easy to calculate you mileage in increments of five miles. Some folks will say that it gets boring after the first five miles, well you know what simple reverse direction every miles and your five, ten, fifteen, or even twenty miles will never be the same If tou are walking or even running you can take advantage of the side dirt trails to change the scenery. I always have walked and jogged this place bit I have seen some people on bikes so it should be a good place to ride with family as there is a 10 mile speed limit. Parking is a olenty but it does get packed early so plan you actively... enjoy the outdoors. It is social distance friendly as one can easily maintain the six feet requirement and it is open space so you can bet you're safe. read more

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Beautiful place to walk, jog, run, etc. The scenic lake and the birds, flowers, variety of plants are beautiful natural beauty of this park. read more

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Great area for walking, running or biking. This is a 5 mile path which takes you over the dam. I grew up doing this path and it's beautiful during sunset. There are shaded parts with benches and portapotties read more

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This has been a place of peace for me. I really enjoy running this 5 mile loop and little more if you count walking back to your car. It's mainly asphalt road, some areas of the road of newer. But mainly the road it well maintained. It's a two way road, wide enough for runners, walkers, bikes and every once in a while vehicles. There is a launch pad for boats and kayaks. I use to come here to feed the ducks as a kid and it's fun now being able to bring my niece to do the same. There is a rental shop for bikes and other watercrafts. Bathrooms also available and portable restrooms throughout the trail. I am happy the lake is back open, it's been overly crowded. Some people are wearing masks but the crowds are keeping me away for now. I stop by here and there to enjoy it but I haven't felt secure enough to stay long. And I also don't feel secure enough to run the loop just yet. Can't wait to come back to get back into running here. The view and fresh air is great here. read more

Definitely worth the price of admission. Parking is limited but the nearby library is available if needed. With many picnic benches available, it is an ideal place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the lake. Whether you're here for exercise or to relax, you're sure to find a good spot to do so. Even with social distancing, it is a safe place to visit. I plan on visiting more often to take my son for a leisurely stroll. read more

Lake Miramar - Another beautiful day - Lakes Near Me - San Diego, California

Lake Mirimar is a lovely park surrounding a reservoir in the Scripps Ranch community. I have been going there for years, but lately not as much, as I don't pass through that area as much anymore. However, I was there a few months ago for a walk with a friend, and last weekend for a run. There is parking lot right as you go in through the gate, and additional parking if you drive up a bit. It does get crowded some sunny weekends, but most of the time, I do not have trouble parking. The lake is five miles around which makes for a good running loop. It is popular for pedestrians, skaters, and bikers. I have been there dog walking and my friend has often come with her running stroller. You can drive around most of the lake as well, but the area around that dam is not accessible by car, so you would have to turn around. Once, without warning, the dam was closed and my five mile run turned into a ten mile run. The path is wide, making plenty of space, even on crowded days. There are tall trees that are surrounding, but most of the trail has very little shade. If you go, be sure to wear sunscreen or a hat. It gets balmy for sure! Several years back, I took my little cousins on a paddle boat out on the lake. We had a great time. I'm not sure what the hours are, but they still have a dock and a boat rental. read more

Lake Miramar - Lakes Near Me - San Diego, California

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Beautiful setting, it is not too crowded, and has a nice paved walkway so great for strollers.

I know many people who think Lake Miramar is great ... especially for the 5-mile run/hike/walk around the lake. Sorry, I'm not one of them. The road around the lake is in disrepair. Picnic facilities are limited. It still is a beautiful spot with some nice views. read more

This is such a peaceful and well kept place! I've come here several times to walk the whole 5 mile loop with friends. I am always so impressed on how great the upkeep of this place is and how clean everything looks. I highly recommend getting here early on the weekends because it starts to get really busy as early as 8AM. Sometimes the geese like to come out and walk on the pavement to say hi to everyone, so that's always fun to see. Sometimes I also see people come out and take their boats to go fishing or just ride on the water. It's so great to see the community just out and about and utilizing the space for all kinds of activities. There's are two big parking lots, free parking. There is also street parking right outside the entrance where I see people park as well. Overall, I highly recommend paying this place a visit! read more

Lake Miramar - View of the lake - Lakes Near Me - San Diego, California

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I still love this place though it has developed some issues that have made it less desirable than it was. First are the cars. The City now allows them on the road seven days a week. They speed, create pollution, and mar an otherwise peaceful environment. I walk here multiple days a week and I see many of the same cars each time on the perimeter road. Most of them are heavy, pollution belching SUVs that are no doubt contributing to the deteriorating condition of the perimeter road. There are lots of kids here on bikes and I worry for their safety. The e-bikes cause similar issues; all motorized vehicles and bikes need to be restricted to three days a week again. Pro tip: the closure times for the gates are to be taken seriously. I've seen many people get locked in. Those times are not suggestions. read more