How to Hike the Puddingstone Reservoir

The Puddingstone Reservoir, nestled in the heart of Southern California’s San Gabriel Valley, is one of the region’s most overlooked natural treasures. Despite its proximity to major urban centers like Los Angeles and Pomona, this serene, 170-acre body of water is surrounded by rugged chaparral, ancient oak woodlands, and winding trails that offer hikers a rare escape into quiet wilderness. The hike around Puddingstone Reservoir is not a strenuous summit climb or a technical trail—it’s a gentle, meditative loop that rewards patience, mindfulness, and an appreciation for subtlety. Unlike crowded national parks or Instagram-famous ridgelines, Puddingstone offers solitude, ecological richness, and a deeply personal connection to the land. For urban dwellers seeking respite without a long drive, this hike is an essential experience. Whether you’re a seasoned trail enthusiast or a first-time walker looking to reconnect with nature, mastering the art of hiking Puddingstone Reservoir opens the door to a deeper understanding of Southern California’s hidden landscapes.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research and Plan Your Visit

Before setting foot on the trail, take time to understand the environment you’re entering. Puddingstone Reservoir is located within Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park, a 935-acre park managed by Los Angeles County Parks and Recreation. The reservoir is not a natural lake—it was created in the 1930s by damming San Jose Creek to provide flood control and water storage. Today, it serves as a recreational hub, but the trails surrounding it remain relatively undeveloped, preserving a sense of wildness.

Start by visiting the official LA County Parks website to confirm park hours, any seasonal closures, or fire restrictions. The park typically opens at 6:00 a.m. and closes at sunset, with gates locked promptly at closing time. Weekdays are less crowded, especially during school hours. Early mornings offer the best light for photography and the coolest temperatures during summer months.

Check the weather forecast. Southern California’s climate is generally mild, but summer days can exceed 95°F (35°C), and sudden temperature drops occur in the evening. Avoid hiking during extreme heat advisories or after heavy rain, as trail sections may become muddy or slippery.

2. Choose Your Trail Route

The Puddingstone Reservoir Loop is approximately 4.2 miles long and can be completed in 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on pace and stops. There are multiple access points, but the most popular and well-maintained route begins at the North Shore Trailhead, located near the main park entrance off San Jose Creek Road.

From the North Shore Trailhead, follow the paved path that curves gently along the reservoir’s northern edge. This section is wide, flat, and accessible to strollers and wheelchairs. After 0.6 miles, you’ll reach a junction marked by a wooden sign: “Reservoir Loop.” Turn left here onto the dirt trail. This is where the true hiking experience begins.

The loop continues counterclockwise, skirting the eastern shoreline. Here, the trail narrows, becomes uneven, and winds through dense sagebrush and scattered sycamores. Watch for interpretive signs detailing native plant species such as California poppy, brittlebush, and coastal sage scrub. After 1.8 miles, the trail ascends slightly over a low ridge offering the first panoramic view of the reservoir’s full expanse.

Descend gently toward the southern shore, where the trail merges briefly with a bike path. Cross under the bridge near the marina and continue along the western edge. This stretch is shaded by mature willows and offers the best birdwatching opportunities. The final 0.8 miles return you to the North Shore Trailhead, completing the loop.

For a shorter option, consider the 2.2-mile out-and-back route from the North Shore to the dam. This is ideal for families or those with limited time. For a more adventurous route, extend your hike by connecting to the San Jose Creek Trail, which leads to the historic Bonelli House ruins—an optional 1.5-mile detour.

3. Prepare Your Gear

Despite its accessibility, Puddingstone demands basic preparation. You are not in a city park—this is wildland, and conditions can change quickly.

• Footwear: Wear closed-toe hiking shoes or trail runners with good grip. The trail has loose gravel, exposed roots, and occasional slick mud after rain.
• Hydration: Carry at least 2 liters of water per person. There are no water fountains along the trail. A hydration bladder is recommended for easy access.
• Navigation: Download the AllTrails or Gaia GPS app and save the Puddingstone Loop offline. Cell service is spotty near the eastern ridge.
• Protection: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+), wear a wide-brimmed hat, and carry sunglasses. UV exposure is intense at this elevation.
• Backpack: Use a lightweight daypack with a waist strap. Include a small first-aid kit, insect repellent, a whistle, and a lightweight emergency blanket.
• Camera or journal: The light, the reflections on the water, and the birdlife make this a photographer’s delight. A journal helps you record observations and deepen your connection to the place.

4. Begin Your Hike

Arrive at the North Shore Trailhead at least 15 minutes before sunrise if you plan to hike at dawn. Park in the designated lot (free with a $10 vehicle entry fee or free with a valid LA County Parks pass). Walk to the trailhead kiosk, which displays a map and current trail conditions.

Take a moment to breathe deeply. Listen. You’ll hear the rustle of lizards in the brush, the distant call of a red-tailed hawk, and the gentle lap of water against the shore. This is not a race. Hiking Puddingstone is about presence.

Begin walking slowly. Notice the texture of the soil—fine, sandy loam mixed with crushed granite. Observe the way the morning sun catches dew on spiderwebs strung between sagebrush. Pause at every bend. The trail reveals itself gradually.

At the 1.2-mile mark, you’ll pass a bench under a live oak. This is a perfect spot to rest, hydrate, and watch for deer, which are often seen grazing near the water’s edge at dawn and dusk. Do not feed wildlife. Observe from a distance.

5. Navigate the Reservoir’s Eastern Ridge

This is the most scenic and challenging portion of the loop. The trail climbs gently over a low, rocky outcrop. The ascent is not steep, but the footing requires attention. Use your hands if needed—this is not a technical climb, but balance matters.

At the top, pause. The view is breathtaking: the reservoir stretches like a mirror below, framed by the Puente Hills to the north and the San Gabriel Mountains to the east. On clear days, you can see downtown Los Angeles on the horizon. This is the moment to take a photo, but more importantly, to sit quietly. Many hikers miss this because they keep moving. Stop. Breathe. Absorb.

As you descend, the trail becomes shaded. The air cools. You’ll hear the chatter of acorn woodpeckers and the occasional splash of a bass breaking the surface. This section is prime for birding. Bring binoculars if you have them. Look for great blue herons, ospreys, and the elusive black-necked stilt.

6. Cross the Bridge and Return

As you approach the southern shore, the trail widens again and becomes a shared path with cyclists. Be courteous. Announce your presence with a polite “On your left!” when passing. The bridge crossing is a popular photo spot—especially at golden hour. The water reflects the sky in perfect hues of orange and purple.

After crossing, follow the western trail. This stretch is lined with willows and cottonwoods, creating a cool, green corridor. Look for signs of beaver activity—gnawed branches, dam remnants. These are indicators of a healthy riparian ecosystem.

As you near the end, the trail begins to curve back toward the parking lot. The last 500 yards are flat and paved. This is a time to reflect. What did you notice? What surprised you? What did you feel?

7. Complete and Reflect

When you return to your vehicle, resist the urge to immediately check your phone. Sit for five minutes. Breathe. Let the quiet of the trail settle into your mind. Consider writing a few lines in a journal: the scent of the sage, the sound of the water, the way the light changed as you walked.

Leave no trace. Double-check your area for trash, water bottles, or food wrappers. Even biodegradable items like apple cores can disrupt local wildlife. Pack out everything you brought in.

Finally, consider sharing your experience—without revealing exact GPS coordinates. Write a review on AllTrails, post a photo on Instagram with the hashtag

PuddingstoneReservoirHike, or tell a friend. Preservation begins with awareness.

Best Practices

Timing Is Everything

Hiking Puddingstone Reservoir is not a one-size-fits-all activity. The best time to go depends on your goals.

Early Morning (5:30–8:30 a.m.): Ideal for solitude, photography, and wildlife viewing. Temperatures are cool, and the light is soft. This is when deer, foxes, and coyotes are most active.

Midday (10 a.m.–2 p.m.): Avoid unless you’re experienced in heat management. The sun is intense, and the trail offers minimal shade after the eastern ridge. If you must hike then, wear light, breathable clothing, carry extra water, and take frequent breaks under trees.

Late Afternoon (4–6 p.m.): A beautiful time for a second loop. The shadows lengthen, the air cools, and the reservoir glows. This is also when bird activity peaks as species return to roost.

Sunrise and Sunset: If you’re planning to hike during these times, bring a headlamp or flashlight. The park gates close at sunset, and you’ll need to exit before the lights go out.

Leave No Trace Principles

These seven principles are not suggestions—they are essential for preserving Puddingstone’s fragile ecosystem.

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know the rules, weather, and trail conditions. Don’t rely on cell service.
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stay on marked trails. Trampling vegetation erodes soil and kills native plants.
3. Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash, including food scraps and tissues. Use restrooms at the park entrance.
4. Leave What You Find: Do not pick flowers, collect rocks, or carve into trees. Even small souvenirs remove ecological value.
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts: Fires are prohibited on the trail. Use a stove if cooking.
6. Respect Wildlife: Observe from a distance. Never feed animals. Store food securely.
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Keep noise low. Yield to others on the trail. Let hikers pass politely.

Wildlife Etiquette

Puddingstone is home to a surprising diversity of wildlife, including mule deer, bobcats, coyotes, rattlesnakes, and over 120 bird species. Most animals are shy and avoid humans—but you must act responsibly.

If you encounter a snake, stop. Do not approach. Snakes typically retreat when given space. Back away slowly. Rattlesnakes are most active from April to October, especially on warm rocks.

Deer are often seen grazing near the water. Keep dogs leashed and under control. Even a friendly dog can stress or chase wildlife, causing long-term behavioral changes.

Never feed ducks or geese. Human food causes nutritional imbalances and can lead to disease outbreaks in waterfowl populations.

Seasonal Considerations

Spring (March–May): Wildflowers bloom in abundance. Look for lupines, desert lilies, and goldfields. This is the most colorful time to visit.

Summer (June–August): High temperatures. Hike early or late. Watch for poison oak, which thrives in shaded areas. Learn to identify it: “Leaves of three, let it be.”

Fall (September–November): Cool, crisp air. Fewer crowds. Excellent for photography as the golden hour lasts longer.

Winter (December–February): Mild days, occasional rain. Trails may be muddy. Bring waterproof gear. This is the best time to see migratory birds like the northern shoveler and American wigeon.

Group Hiking Guidelines

If hiking with others, keep your group size to six or fewer. Larger groups disturb wildlife and erode trails faster. Assign a leader and a rear guard to ensure no one gets left behind.

Children should be supervised closely. The trail has uneven terrain and steep drop-offs near the water’s edge. Teach them to stay on the path and respect nature.

Bring a shared first-aid kit. Include tweezers for splinters, antiseptic wipes, and blister pads. Even short hikes can result in minor injuries.

Tools and Resources

Trail Mapping Apps

While Puddingstone is relatively straightforward, having a digital map is invaluable, especially if you plan to extend your hike or explore side trails.

• AllTrails: Search “Puddingstone Reservoir Loop.” The top-rated route has detailed user reviews, photos, and elevation profiles. Download the offline map.
• Gaia GPS: Offers topographic layers and satellite imagery. Ideal for identifying water sources and hidden trails.
• Google Earth: Use the historical imagery tool to see how the reservoir has changed over decades. Fascinating for geology enthusiasts.

Field Guides

Enhance your experience with a few essential field guides:

• “A Field Guide to Southern California Wildflowers” by Philip A. Munz: Identify over 200 native blooms.
• “Birds of Southern California” by James K. Downs: Includes range maps and calls for 300+ species.
• “A Naturalist’s Guide to the Santa Monica Mountains” by James H. Watters: Covers the broader ecosystem, including soil types and plant communities.

Local Organizations and Educational Programs

Connect with groups that steward the land:

• Friends of Bonelli Park: Volunteers who lead monthly cleanups and guided nature walks. Join their newsletter for upcoming events.
• LA County Parks Education Department: Offers free junior naturalist programs for children. Check their website for family-friendly hikes.
• California Native Plant Society – San Gabriel Valley Chapter: Hosts plant identification walks in spring. A great way to learn about native restoration efforts.

Weather and Air Quality Tools

Check these resources before heading out:

• NOAA Weather Forecast: https://www.weather.gov
• AirNow.gov: Monitors local air quality. High ozone levels can affect breathing, especially in summer.
• CalFire Fire Restrictions: https://www.fire.ca.gov—Check for burn bans or trail closures due to fire danger.

Photography Equipment Recommendations

Puddingstone offers stunning photo opportunities. Here’s what to bring:

• Camera: A mirrorless or DSLR with a 24–70mm lens captures both wide landscapes and close-up details.
• Tripod: Essential for sunrise/sunset shots. The water is often still, creating perfect reflections.
• Polarizing Filter: Reduces glare on the water and enhances sky color.
• Smartphone with Pro Mode: If you don’t carry a camera, use your phone’s manual settings to adjust exposure and focus.
• Drone (with permit): Drones are prohibited over water bodies in LA County parks without a special permit. Do not fly without authorization.

Real Examples

Case Study 1: The First-Time Hiker

Jamal, a 28-year-old software engineer from Pasadena, had never hiked before. He heard about Puddingstone from a coworker and decided to try it on a Saturday morning. He wore sneakers, brought a bottle of water, and assumed the trail would be like a sidewalk.

He got lost near the eastern ridge when his phone died. He panicked, then sat down. He listened. He noticed a lizard sunning itself on a rock. He watched a red-tailed hawk circle above. He remembered his grandfather’s stories about the land. He found the trail again by following the sound of water.

He completed the loop in 2 hours and 45 minutes. He cried on the way back to his car—not from exhaustion, but from a deep sense of peace. He now hikes every weekend. He started a blog called “Urban Soul, Wild Trails.”

Case Study 2: The Birdwatcher

Dr. Elena Ruiz, a retired ornithologist, visits Puddingstone every Thursday. She brings her binoculars, field journal, and a thermos of tea. She’s documented 92 bird species here since 2018, including the rare green heron, which had not been seen in the valley for over 30 years.

She noticed that water levels fluctuated seasonally and correlated them with bird migration patterns. She shared her findings with the LA County Parks Department, which led to the installation of a new interpretive sign near the southern shore detailing bird behavior.

“This trail,” she says, “is a living archive. Every footprint, every leaf, every ripple tells a story. You just have to learn how to read it.”

Case Study 3: The Family Outing

The Morales family—parents and two kids aged 7 and 10—hiked Puddingstone for the first time during spring break. They brought sandwiches, a small kite, and a scavenger hunt list they made together: “Find something smooth,” “Spot a bird with a long beak,” “Smell the sage.”

They took their time. They skipped stones. They watched a family of ducks cross the water. The 10-year-old found a perfect quartz stone and left it on a bench, saying, “It belongs here.”

They returned two months later. The kids now ask to go every weekend. “It’s not a park,” the daughter says. “It’s a place that breathes.”

Case Study 4: The Environmental Advocate

In 2021, a local resident noticed plastic bottles and discarded fishing line accumulating near the dam. She organized a monthly cleanup with neighbors. Within a year, they removed over 1,200 pounds of trash and installed a permanent recycling bin at the trailhead.

Her efforts inspired the county to launch a “Trail Stewards” program, training volunteers to monitor the area and educate visitors. Today, Puddingstone is one of the cleanest regional park trails in the county.

FAQs

Is Puddingstone Reservoir safe to hike alone?

Yes, the trail is generally safe for solo hikers. It’s well-traveled on weekends, and the park is patrolled by rangers. However, always inform someone of your plans, carry a charged phone, and avoid hiking after dark. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, leave the trail and seek help.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. They are not permitted on the beach areas or near the water’s edge to protect wildlife and water quality. Clean up after your pet immediately.

Are there restrooms on the trail?

No, restrooms are only available at the main park entrance near the parking lot and the marina. Plan accordingly.

Is swimming allowed in Puddingstone Reservoir?

No. Swimming, wading, and water sports are prohibited. The reservoir is a managed water supply and not designated for recreation involving direct contact with water.

Can I fish at Puddingstone Reservoir?

Yes, fishing is permitted with a valid California fishing license. The reservoir is stocked with bass, catfish, and bluegill. Only catch-and-release is allowed for certain species. Check the California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations for details.

Is the trail accessible for wheelchairs?

The first 0.6 miles of the North Shore Trail are paved and ADA-compliant. Beyond that, the trail becomes unpaved and uneven. A manual wheelchair with off-road tires may manage parts of the loop, but a power wheelchair is not recommended due to steep, loose sections.

What’s the best time of year to see wildflowers?

Mid-March to mid-May is peak bloom season. After winter rains, the hillsides explode with color. Look for desert sunflowers, purple owl’s clover, and golden poppies near the trail’s eastern edge.

Are there any fees to hike Puddingstone Reservoir?

There is a $10 vehicle entry fee for LA County parks. This fee is waived for residents with a valid LA County Parks pass. Pedestrians and cyclists enter free of charge.

What should I do if I see an injured animal?

Do not attempt to handle it. Note the location and contact LA County Animal Control at (562) 940-6890. They have trained personnel to respond safely.

Can I camp overnight near the reservoir?

No. Overnight camping is not permitted anywhere in Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park. The nearest designated camping is at the nearby San Dimas Campground, approximately 8 miles away.

Conclusion

Hiking the Puddingstone Reservoir is not about conquering distance or speed. It is about slowing down—so deeply that you begin to notice the small things: the way the light dances on water, the scent of crushed sage underfoot, the silence between bird calls. In a world that rewards constant motion, this trail offers a rare gift: stillness.

It is not a destination. It is a practice. Each step becomes a meditation. Each pause, a revelation. The reservoir does not demand anything from you—only presence. And in return, it gives you clarity, calm, and a quiet reminder that nature, even near the heart of a metropolis, still breathes.

Whether you come for the birds, the solitude, the photography, or simply to escape the noise, Puddingstone Reservoir will meet you where you are. It does not judge. It does not rush. It simply is.

So lace up your shoes. Bring your curiosity. Leave your expectations behind. And walk. Not to finish the trail—but to let the trail walk through you.