Why visit
The Silver Lake Reservoir is where you go to feel the unhurried, creative pulse of east-side Los Angeles, far from the bustle of Hollywood or the beaches. The shimmering water, hillside backdrop, and steady parade of locals and their dogs make the loop one of the city's most pleasant free walks. Pair it with the neighborhood's celebrated cafes and shops for a quintessentially Silver Lake day.
Tucked into the hills of the trendy Silver Lake neighborhood, the reservoir complex consists of the larger Silver Lake Reservoir and the smaller Ivanhoe Reservoir. A well-loved perimeter path of roughly two miles draws runners, dog walkers, and stroller-pushing families daily, with the calm water and surrounding hillside homes creating a peaceful counterpoint to the city. The Silver Lake Meadow, a grassy lakeside lawn, gives visitors a rare spot to lounge directly beside the water.
Long a functioning part of the city's water supply, the reservoirs have evolved into a community recreation hub and the symbolic heart of the neighborhood. The area is dotted with a recreation center, a dog park, and a children's playground, and ongoing planning efforts aim to expand public access to the water's edge. Surrounded by mid-century architecture, indie cafes, and boutiques, it embodies the easygoing, design-conscious character of east-side LA.
History
The reservoirs were built in the early 20th century, with Silver Lake completed around 1907 and named for water board commissioner Herman Silver rather than its color. For decades they served as active drinking-water reservoirs, but the system was taken offline from domestic supply in the 2010s as the city shifted to covered storage, opening the door to reimagining the basins as a public open space.
Insider Tips
- ✦The full loop is roughly two miles and makes a great casual run or walk.
- ✦Combine your visit with shopping and coffee along Silver Lake Boulevard.
- ✦Weekday mornings are far quieter than weekends for parking and the path.
Photo Tips
- 📸Capture the still water reflecting the surrounding hills at dawn.
- 📸The Silver Lake Meadow lawn makes a great foreground for water-and-sky shots.
- 📸Look for joggers and dogs to add lively, candid human interest to the loop.
Before You Go
- ✓The water itself is fenced as protected infrastructure, so plan to walk the perimeter rather than approach the reservoir directly.
- ✓Bring water and sun protection, as shade along the loop is limited.
- ✓Check for any path closures tied to ongoing reservoir improvement projects.
Visiting with family
Families enjoy the lakeside meadow, nearby playground, and the gentle, stroller-friendly stretches of the path. The dog park is a hit with kids who love watching the pups.
Where to Eat Nearby
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Silver Lake Reservoir FAQ
Can you go in or boat on the Silver Lake Reservoir?
No, the reservoir is fenced protected infrastructure; visitors enjoy the surrounding perimeter path and meadow rather than the water itself.
How long is the walking loop?
The perimeter path is approximately two miles, making it a popular route for walkers, runners, and dog owners.
Is it free?
Yes, walking the loop and using the surrounding park areas is free.
Nearby Neighborhoods
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Los Feliz is a leafy, hilly neighborhood on the eastern edge of the Hollywood Hills, beloved for its mix of historic architecture, indie shops, and gateway access to Griffith Park. It blends bohemian creativity with old-Hollywood elegance.
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