Lost Slough Wetlands Walk Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · River/Creek · Views · Wildlife

While not expressly forbidden, running is discouraged as it may disturb the preserve's sensitive bird population.

The Lost Slough Wetlands Walk Trail creates an easy, mile-long loop from the Visitor Center. Start at the boardwalk and cross over Willow Slough. Make sure to look for birds and amphibians. On the other side, stay left on the pavement. From there, head north, crossing a long bridge before entering a cultivated grove of valley oaks.

On the left, a narrow perennial pond makes a great spot to look for turtles warming themselves in the sun. At the north end, the trail circles around to cross over Franklin Boulevard to border a marshy depression on the other side. To the south, the nearby Boardwalk Trail can be seen departing from the upper parking area (the quarter-mile boardwalk makes a worthwhile addition, especially when sandhill cranes are present). From there, the trail circles back over the road to return to the Visitor Center.


This content was contributed by the Cosumnes River Preserve. To learn more about the preserve and recreation opportunities there, click here.

Sandhill cranes, red-winged blackbirds, and plenty of turtles are common inhabitants of this preserve, so keep your eyes peeled!