Cherry Lake

Also known as: Cherry Creek Reservoir

Locations

USA > West > California

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Cherry Lake: Description

Creation of Cherry Lake and the Tuolumne River watershed was a cooperative effort among the city and county of San Francisco, the Modesto and Turlock Irrigation Districts, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. San Francisco's search for additional water supplies dates back to 1882, when the Hetch Hetchy Valley was considered a possible location for a reservoir. (Hetch Hetchy is a Native American term for a grass with edible seeds that grows in the valley.) During the 1920's, irrigation districts were formed to meet the needs of an irrigation-dependent agricultural economy in the valley. In addition, the Army Corps of Engineers wanted to control valley flooding during heavy rains. Thus, a partnership among local and federal agencies led to a series of reservoirs along the Tuolumne River and its tributaries, including Cherry Creek.

The Cherry Lake project was completed in 1956. Water from the lake, or Cherry Creek Reservoir, produces hydroelectric power and provides drinking water as part of the Hetch Hetchy system for the city and county of San Francisco. Cherry Lake has since evolved into a recreational destination known for its blue skies, sparkling waters, and a wide variety of activities.

Anglers flock to the lake every year, plotting their next catch of eastern brook trout, german brown trout, Kakanee salmon, and rainbow trout. Launch your boat from one of two launches and patrol the lake's expansive acres, with your hook baited and your eyes on the lookout for the beauty that surrounds you. As always, make sure you have a valid California fishing license before you arrive.

In addition to fishing, other favorite lake activities include boating, swimming, and waterskiing. Clean, refreshing waters tempt and entice on a warm summer day. Take a leisurely boat ride and explore hidden coves, feel the wind in your hair as you rush along the reservoir's surface, and stop for a picnic in the middle of the lake. Hop into the water behind your boat for an adrenaline-pumping ride on water skis or a quick, cooling swim.

Cherry Lake enjoys a prime California location within the Stanislaus National Forest, a 898,099-acre forest snuggled into the Sierra Nevada mountain range. One of the nation's oldest national forests, it holds within its boundaries 78 lakes, 811 miles of rivers and streams, 1100 miles of trails, and 2859 miles of roads. Granite and rock formations grow out of the earth, grazing cattle dot the landscape, and first class whitewater rafting awaits you.

Cherry Lake is also just a few miles from the famous Yosemite National Park, covering 761,266 acres and hosting an incredible 3.5 million visitors every year. As a World Heritage Site, Yosemite basks in international recognition of its towering Giant Sequoias, intense biodiversity, great tumbling waterfalls, and spectacular, graceful granite cliffs. As you hike the park's trails, drive along scenic parkways, bike a mountain path, or take a guided tour, you'll discover the spectacular natural beauty of Yosemite. The Giant Sequoias are almost too large to be believed, 150 species of birds pass through the park each year, and from mountaintop vantage points, you'll swear you can see to China.

In winter, the Cherry Lake area is alive with activity as snowmobiles roar along trails, snow lovers traipse across the countryside on snow shoes and cross country skis, and the young (and young at heart) launch snowball wars, build snowmen, and create artistic snow angels in the powdery whiteness.

Cherry Lake is a true getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, inviting you to enjoy the tranquility of a mountain lake (elevation 4700 feet above sea level), visit national forests, and catch your supper. The reservoir provides year-round fun for everyone.