Today I want to share one of my favorite spots in Orange County for a nice walk – Mission Viejo Lake. It’s not just a great place for a stroll, but it’s also got a bit of history to it.
So, Mission Viejo Lake, also known as Lake Mission Viejo, is this man-made lake right in the middle of Mission Viejo. It was created in the early 1970s as a part of the planned community of Mission Viejo.
The lake was built to be a recreational hub for the residents, offering activities like swimming, boating, and fishing.
What I Like About Walking Around The Lake Mission Viejo
The path around the lake is about 3.5 miles long and it’s pretty easy to walk or jog on. But keep in mind, there are just two areas of the trail where you can really see the water well. Even so, the scenery is still nice. There isn’t a trail around the actual lake like at the Rancho Santa Margarita lake.
The path is on the sidewalk around the lake, so it’s super easy to follow, just follow the signs via Marguerite, Alicia and Olympiad road. There are also a few small hills along the way. There’s a gradual incline going up the trail on Alicia to get your heart pumping a bit more. There are also plenty of benches along the way. So if you ever feel like taking a break, you can just sit down, relax, and enjoy the view.
If you’re walking around and need a bathroom break, there’s a catch. There aren’t any public restrooms along the sidewalk. But if you live in Mission Viejo, you can use the facilities near the beach area of the lake. If you’re not a resident, you can find restrooms at Florence Joyner Olympiad Park. It’s close by and you’ll be passing by it anyways.
One of the nice things I like about the walk is that there are always people around. It doesn’t matter what time of day it is, you’ll see other walkers and joggers. And along the path, there are different benches and tables where you can sit and relax for a bit. You might even spot some Turkey Vultures hanging out on the fence around the lake. They’re pretty common in this area.
One of the highlights of walking around the lake is the wildlife. Besides the Turkey Vultures I mentioned earlier, you can also see ducks, geese, and storks. It’s a great place for birdwatching!
When I go for a walk here, I usually park near the Wells Fargo parking lot at Vista del Lago and Marguerite Parkway. I start my walk from there and turn left on Marguerite. It’s a convenient spot to begin the loop.
So, if you’re looking for a nice outdoor activity in Orange County, definitely consider taking a walk around Mission Viejo Lake. It’s a great way to enjoy some exercise and take in a bit of local history at the same time.
