The Santa Fe Dam is a small man made lake at The Santa Fe Dam recreational area in Irwindale, CA in the San Gabriel Valley. Don't let the industrial town around it scare you off. The lake is a gem in the rough. Once you get inside the gates, it is surrounded by attractive landscaping with Mount Baldy as the backdrop. There are plenty of picnic areas. The lake its self is a perfect place to get a leisurely paddle in. Most of the lake is about 5 feet deep making the water in summer like bathwater. The lake takes about a half hour to 45 minutes to circumnavigate completely. No motorboats, but a nice boat launch nonetheless. Great for beginners to learn paddling technique. Usually uncrowded with a few paddleboarders, kayak fishers and kayakers. An amazing amount of bird sightings to be seen for area so near Los Angeles. It's not Lake Tahoe, but for those who live in the area, it's a great getaway for a relaxing paddle.
Safety Notes
No particular hazards
Gear Notes
Bring your kayak and PFD or you can rent them.
Conditions
Placid all day long.
Trip Details
Trip Dates:
8/2/2020
Sport/Activity:
Kayaking, Stand Up Paddling, Kayak Fishing
