Lake Chabot: A Place Where Nature and Nostalgia Meet

The sun glistened on Lake Chabot. It produced lovely waves, and the pleasant scent of pine and fresh dirt filled the air. Families were laughing as they enjoyed their weekend. For a lot of people, Lake Chabot is just a stunning place to go kayaking, hiking, or fishing. But as a recollection from my early years, it has a special place in my heart.

Every trip to Lake Chabot was an adventure for me as a kid. In an effort to reach the sea first, my sister and I rushed along the shore. There were polished stones in the water. Each time I skipped one, I felt like a champion. While my mom adjusted her camera, I tried to catch fish with my bare hands. We had picnics too, but I usually explored instead of eating.

Lake Chabot instilled in me a passion for nature. The tranquil lake, rustling trees, and simply being outside gave me joy.

Years later, I returned with a friend, Nate. The pathways felt shorter, and the picnic tables were smaller. But the lake’s spirit remained untouched, and thus a new journey began.

We hiked the Bass, Columbine, Honker, and East Shore routes, all of which had the same old beauty. The sun shone on the water, families gathered at picnic sites, and the air was alive with paddles slashing through the lake.

At one point, Nate found a lizard on the trail and, for reasons beyond my understanding, carried it for most of the hike.

As we proceeded, we noticed a sign detailing Lake Chabot’s history. It was established in 1874 as the San Leandro Reservoir. Eight hundred people moved a large amount of earth to create a water supply for Oakland and San Leandro. After hearing about their efforts, I developed an entirely new perspective on the lake, seeing it as more than just a tourist destination with a fascinating past.

On our way to the Chabot Dam, a hiker passed us. He said, “Don’t have small lungs, kids.” It was amusing, yet useful advice for the uphill journey. By the time we arrived at the dam, we were exhausted but happy.

As we admired the scene, Nate held on to his lizard while the light shimmered on the sea. Lake Chabot is more than just a lake; it’s a repository of early memories, a place to create new ones, and a place where the beauty of nature is still present.

No matter how many years go by, I’m sure that its beauty and the memories I have there will entice me back. I might even bring a lizard the next time!