Bay Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Views

The Bay Trail to North Observation Platform is a trail that follows a coastal marsh along the South San Francisco Bay. There is a parking lot at Cooley Landing where you can leave your car and work your way down to the trail, which is part of the longer Bay Trail system.

The trail crosses over a bridge and enters the preserve where various birds can be seen throughout the year. To the right, a trail leads out to the South Observation Platform where you can enjoy views of the bay and Dumbarton Bridge. The trail continues straight on a double wide paved trail that follows the edge of the preserve.

This is great for cycling or running if you are so inclined. After about a mile, the Bay Trail breaks off to the left over a wooden bridge system while the Bay Trail to North Observation Point continues straight and becomes a double wide gravel trail. The trail passes under some power lines and continues to work its way out toward the bay.

It turns to the right as it approaches the North Platform. From here, you are very close to the bay and can enjoy watching various birds hunting in the marsh and mudflats when the tide is low. You can enjoy views toward the Cooley Landing Park and Education Center.

Now, you work your way at least to where the Bay Trail breaks off and can either turn to the right to continue your adventure, or work your way back to the car.

The marsh is home to various birds, including egrets, great blue herons, white pelicans and various ducks. At various times throughout the year, migrating birds can be seen stopping over in the marshes and along the bay.