Elkhorn Slough Reserve and Visitor Center

1700 Elkhorn Road
Watsonville, CA 95076

Description

The Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve has five miles of trails that meander through beautiful oak woodlands, calm tidal creeks and freshwater marshes. There are tours on the weekends and special events throughout the year. The Visitor Center lies at the heart of the reserve’s programs and is a starting point for any outing at the Elkhorn Slough Reserve. It features outstanding educational exhibits that invite visitors of all ages to take a closer look at the unseen world of the slough.

A favorite way to see the slough is in a kayak or other boat. Paddling just above the water level, you can come face to face with a mischievous sea otter swimming on its back or a harbor seal lounging in the mud. Located on the Pacific Flyway, the Elkhorn Slough and surrounding areas offer world-class birding. Fishing is a popular pasttime at the slough, but check out the regulations and prohibited areas before venturing out.