Seasonal Wetland Loop

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · Wildlife

This loop makes for a great introductory hike in the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area. It leaves I-80 to the north and heads out among a seasonal wetland with opportunities to see a plethora of bird species and other resident wildlife.

This can be a hot, dusty route with not much shade. Bring water for your journey.

Bring binoculars or a viewing scope as this is one of the best places to spot birds and wildlife for hundreds of miles around.

To access this area, head out on I-80 west of Sacramento looking for exit 78 to the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area. Follow the signs to the main parking lot "A" and continue south to parking lot "B". Park here and head out from parking lot "B" going east on the Pedestrian Trail with tall grass growing alongside. This first stretch provides great views to the south toward the wetland, where hundreds of migratory birds and waterfowl can be seen.

After a few hundred yards, the Pedestrian Trail will bend to the right and head south along the east side of the wetland. Continue for three-quarters of a mile until you arrive at parking lot "C". From this lot, the route continues south on the wider, dirt access road, which can be fairly dusty, though not very busy with traffic. This wide road makes for a great group-hike as visitors can travel three or four across.

Another two-thirds of a mile from parking lot "C" you'll arrive at an intersection with an east-west autoroute, however, there is an access road that travels diagonally through the wetland back up to parking lot "B". Head northwest on this track for 1.5 miles and return to your vehicle.

Long grasses, wildflowers, and wetland species.