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Wild Recovery San Jose, California

June 5th , 2010 Elkhorn Slough Watsonville, CA

The Place

Elkhorn Slough is the largest tidal salt marsh in California outside of San Francisco Bay. Located at the heart of the Monterey Bay coastline, it is a unique natural gem not to be missed. The 1400 acre reserve provides habitat for otters, seals, sharks, rays and numerous native and migratory bird species. Elkhorn slough is one of the premier birdwatching sites on the West coast. More than 340 species have been seen at the refuge. Thanks to the efforts of volunteers over the years the reserve has had many non-native plant species replaced with natives. Every year the reserve is a better reflection of the natural California coastline.

Walking the Walk

We will be taking a docent led hike through the reserve, so we can have the numerous things we would otherwise miss, pointed out to us. The hike itself will be around 2.5 miles with an elevation gain of less than 100 feet. For those who have been waiting for a true level 1 this is it. A real walk in the park.

Level: 1 - Miles: 2.5 - Elevation change:100 ft - Hosts: Diane T. & John R.

Directions:

From San Jose:From San Jose take Hwy 880/17 south to Santa Cruz. Take Hwy 1 exit South toward Watsonville, Moss Landing. Immediately after the power plant, take a left on Dolan Road. Go 3.5 miles on Dolan Road., turn left onto Elkhorn Rd, go 1.9 miles on Elkhorn Road, turn left into the Reserve gate.