LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – The Clear Lake water trails map brochures – a series of seven individual paddling guides – now are available.
Each fold-out brochure highlights a distinct water loop trail on Clear Lake, designed to appeal to both residents and visitors who enjoy exploring waterways by kayak, canoe, and other forms of non-motorized paddling.
Seven water trails brochures are being released, including:
Clear Lake Water Loop 1: Rattlesnake Island
Clear Lake Water Loop 2: Anderson Marsh – Tule Maze and Islands
Clear Lake Water Loop 3: Cache Creek – Rock Riffle and Dam
Clear Lake Water Loop 4: The Narrows – Island Hopping
Clear Lake Water Loop 5: Soda Bay – Volcanic Vents
Clear Lake Water Loop 6: Long Tule Point – Wetlands & Wildlife
Clear Lake Water Loop 7: Rodman Slough
Water loops are recreational waterways on a lake, river, or ocean between specific location, containing access points and day-use and/or camping sites for the boating public. Water loops emphasize low-impact use and promote stewardship of resources while providing healthy outdoor activity.
All of the brochures feature an overview of the specific trail route, distance, seasonal considerations and suggested level of paddling experience; a detailed narrative description of the route with waypoints referenced; and a color map with suggested water trail and launch points, wildlife viewing areas, historical and cultural points of interest, lakeside amenities, public parks and picnic stops, as well as a GPS waypoints table and easy-to-use map legend.
The brochures are designed in a simple foldable form with pleasing colors and eye-catching photos of interesting sights and wildlife that might be spotted along each trail. In addition, each brochure spotlights a different feature that makes Clear Lake unique – from its volcanic origins and mining history to its diverse birding and wildlife and the important role of aquatic plants.
Part of the Konocti Regional Trails planning effort, the Clear Lake Water Trails project is a coordinated effort among several Lake County departments (the Public Services Department, the Community Development Department, and the Marketing and Economic Development Program), community members Holly Harris and Chuck Lamb, with guidance and technical assistance provided by Barbara Rice through a grant from the National Park Service’s Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program. Graphic design work was provided by Laura Lamar of MAX Design Studio in Middletown.
Planning, fact-checking, and mapping included identification of lakeside amenities, areas of public access and public facilities, as well as protection of biologically and culturally sensitive areas. Much appreciation goes to the commitment of community members Harris and Lamb who have provided essential leadership along the way with concept and route development, in-depth research, GPS mapping, and community outreach that included circulation of initial drafts to trails groups, nature and outdoor organizations, landowners and tribal representatives, and interested businesses in order to garner valuable input and feedback for improvement and as a way to “road-test” the loops.
The seven Clear Lake Water Trails Loops include:
Loop 1: Rattlesnake Island
For the naturalist and those who want to savor breathtaking beauty, this is a beautiful loop around
Rattlesnake Island, past the historic Sulphur Bank Mercury Mine and wetlands, and back through the canals of “The Keys” in Clearlake Oaks. On calm days, this is an easy paddle for all experience levels. On windy days, however, it is for experienced paddlers willing to battle heavy winds and large waves. In the summer, mornings are best since the midday sun can become intense and strong winds typically pick up in the afternoon.
Loop 2: Anderson Marsh – Tule Maze and Islands
A favorite among birdwatchers, this is a scenic loop around Indian Island into the tule marshes of Anderson Marsh State Historic Park, and traversing back into Cache Creek and the western shoreline of Clear Lake. Paddling at a leisurely pace, the jaunt takes about 3 hours and is a bird watcher’s paradise. While the marsh itself is quite calm, be aware that winds can whip up large waves in the open waters off Redbud Park.
Loop 3: Cache Creek
A serene paddling experience down Cache Creek to the dam and back, past the Anderson Flats tule reeds, a few older waterfront neighborhoods, and then through the beautiful oak-studded back hills. This loop is best taken during summer and fall, when water levels are lower and Cache Creek Dam is not releasing huge amounts of water. During winter and spring, if the current is too strong, turn around and take a few side loop trips. In the summer, mornings are best as the midday sun can be intense.
Loop 4: The Narrows
A beautiful loop circling the Narrows, past small islands near the base of Mount Konocti. Panoramic views of Mount Konocti, Kono Tayee, Buckingham Point, and the north shore ridgeline. While the lake can be serenely mirrorlike, at any time, winds can be funneled into a “venturi effect” between Mount Konocti and Kono Tayee, causing huge gusts to whip up white caps. This often can be seen as large ripples on the distant water—at these moments, head back toward your launch spot or hug the shore.
Loop 5: Soda Bay – Volcanic Vents
A fascinating trip exploring the Clear Lake shoreline, around the infamous Soda Bay hot springs, looping back along Dorn Bay, and a calm paddle down Kelsey Creek. Beautiful views of Mount Konocti and the surrounding ridgelines. This route may be taken year-round. Note that in late summer and fall, intense sun, low water levels, and patches of algae and invasive weeds near the shoreline can impact paddling. A great trip for watching waterfowl and other wildlife, particularly in the winter and spring.
Loop 6: Long Tule Point – Wetlands & Wildlife
A bucolic paddle along Clear Lake’s largest remaining natural shoreline, past cottonwoods and ancient oaks and small waterfront hamlets. Far-reaching views of Mount Konocti, the Mayacamas mountains, and the north shore. On calm days, this is a gentle paddling experience; when the wind kicks up, it is best to hug the shoreline. A great alternate paddle during summer and early fall when loops like Anderson Marsh and Rodman Slough may be congested with late-season weeds. Mornings are best due to intense midday sun. Winter and spring months offer spectacular opportunities to watch migratory water fowl.
Loop 7: Rodman Slough
A peaceful excursion through Rodman Slough — passing Great Blue Heron and Double-Crested Cormorant rookeries (nesting areas) — to the culvert at Tule Lake. Beautiful views of the north shore ridgeline, oak woodlands, tule reeds, and the Middle Creek restoration area. This route is best taken in winter, spring, or early summer. Late summer and fall can bring intense sun, low water levels, mud flats, algae, and invasive weeds that may impede paddling. This is a great trip for watching waterfowl, particularly in winter and spring.
The Clear Lake Water Trails Brochures are available at Lake County visitor centers and may be downloaded from www.lakecounty.com or www.konoctitrails.com.
For information about Lake County’s trails planning and development efforts, contact the Lake County Public Services Department at 707-262-1618.
