Shoreline

Amphitheatre + Lake

Shoreline Lake: A Mountain View Paradise with a Twist

Nestled in the heart of Silicon Valley, Shoreline Lake in Mountain View is more than just a pretty pond. It's a vibrant tapestry of history, nature, and modern marvels, offering a haven for adventure seekers, sunbathers, and curious minds alike. So, grab your kayak, lace up your hiking boots, or simply pack a picnic basket, because Shoreline Lake is ready to enchant you.

Echoes of Transformation:

Shoreline Lake wasn't always the serene oasis it is today. Born from necessity in the 1930s, it rose from the ashes of a landfill, transformed into a recreational gem through meticulous engineering and environmental restoration. This unique history whispers in the rustling leaves, reminding us of human ingenuity and the resilience of nature.

Wildlife Wonderland:

Beyond the glassy surface, Shoreline Lake buzzes with life. Flocks of ducks and geese paint the sky with graceful arcs, while turtles sun themselves on lily pads, and sleek fish dart through the depths. Keep an eye out for the shy burrowing owls nesting on the island, or catch a glimpse of majestic hawks soaring overhead. The surrounding Shoreline Lake Mountain View Regional Park is a haven for butterflies, deer, and a symphony of birdsong, reminding us of the delicate balance of our ecosystem.

A Playground for All:

But Shoreline Lake isn't just for passive observation. It's a playground for every kind of explorer. Glide across the water on a kayak, feel the wind in your hair on a sailboat, or cast your line for elusive bass. Hike or bike the scenic trails, letting the rhythmic crunch of gravel underfoot soothe your soul. For some friendly competition, challenge yourself on the volleyball court or the basketball court, while the little ones erupt in giggles on the playfield.

Things to do at Shoreline Lake:

• Boating: Rent a paddle boat, kayak, canoe, or sailboat and enjoy a leisurely cruise around the lake. Shoreline Lake is a great place to learn to sail, with lessons and rentals available from the Shoreline Lake Boathouse.

• Fishing: Shoreline Lake is home to a variety of fish, including bass, catfish, and carp. Fishing permits are required and can be purchased from the Boathouse.

• Hiking and biking: The Shoreline Lake Loop Trail is a 2.5-mile trail that circles the lake. It's a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the scenery. You can also bike on the Stevens Creek Trail, which runs alongside the lake.

• Picnicking: There are plenty of grassy areas around the lake that are perfect for picnicking. Enjoy a delicious meal with friends and family while taking in the views.

• Birdwatching: Shoreline Lake is a great place to spot birds. Some of the birds you might see include ducks, geese, herons, and hawks.

• Playing: The Shoreline Lake Playfield is a great place for kids to run around and burn off some energy. There's a playground, basketball courts, and a volleyball court.

Things to see around Shoreline Lake:

• Shoreline Lake Boathouse: The Boathouse is a historic building that dates back to the 1930s. It's now home to a restaurant, a boat rental shop, and a sailing school.

• Shoreline Lake Mountain View Regional Park: The park is a 750-acre park that surrounds Shoreline Lake. It's a great place to hike, bike, and birdwatch.

From Dumps to Dreams: The Story of Shoreline Amphitheatre

Nestled amidst the tech haven of Mountain View, California, lies Shoreline Amphitheatre. This iconic open-air venue, with its grassy slopes and soaring stage, has hosted legendary musicians, from the Grateful Dead to Radiohead, for over three decades. But its story, much like the land it sits on, is one of transformation and unexpected beginnings.

From Landfill to Harmony:

In the 1980s, the land where Shoreline Amphitheatre now stands was far from the idyllic concert venue we know today. It was a landfill, a forgotten patch of earth overflowing with refuse. However, visionary concert promoter Bill Graham saw beyond the trash, envisioning a vibrant entertainment hub. Partnering with the City of Mountain View, he set about transforming the landfill into a cultural oasis.

The journey wasn't easy. Methane gas pockets, a legacy of the landfill, posed a safety concern. Engineers had to install a sophisticated methane venting system to ensure the safety of concertgoers. Moreover, the very shape of the amphitheater presented a challenge. Graham, a devoted Grateful Dead fan, wanted the venue to resemble the band's iconic "Steal Your Face" skull logo. But achieving this meant carefully sculpting the landscape and planting strategic rows of trees to create the illusion of the skull from above.

Finally, in 1986, the dream materialized. Shoreline Amphitheatre opened its doors, not with the originally planned Grateful Dead concert (Jerry Garcia's illness forced a postponement), but with a series of diverse acts, from comedian Roseanne Barr to heartthrob Julio Iglesias. It was a testament to Graham's vision and the city's commitment to creating a space for music and community to thrive.

A Stage for Music's Greats:

Over the years, Shoreline Amphitheatre has become a Bay Area institution. It has hosted countless music legends, from The Who and Bruce Springsteen to Radiohead and Beyoncé. It has witnessed iconic moments in musical history, like Neil Young's annual Bridge School Benefit concerts, with their star-studded lineups and unwavering dedication to supporting children with disabilities.

Who performs at Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, Calif., in 1989.

But Shoreline isn't just about the big names. It's also a platform for rising stars and local bands, offering them a chance to connect with a live audience and experience the magic of performing under the stars. It's a place where music lovers from all walks of life can come together, united by their shared passion for melody and rhythm.

Beyond the Music:

Shoreline Amphitheatre's impact extends beyond the confines of its stage. It's a vital part of Mountain View's cultural fabric, drawing in tourists and boosting the local economy. It also serves as a reminder of the city's commitment to environmental sustainability. In 2008, it became the first Green Certified outdoor venue in the United States, implementing a series of eco-friendly practices like waste reduction and water conservation.

A Legacy of Transformation:

The story of Shoreline Amphitheatre is one of resilience, creativity, and the transformative power of music. It's a testament to what can be achieved when vision meets hard work, and a reminder that even the most unlikely landscapes can blossom into something beautiful. So next time you find yourself swaying to the beat under the stars at Shoreline, remember the unlikely journey this iconic venue has taken, from a forgotten landfill to a stage for musical dreams.