9 - Freshwater Seasonal Marsh

To your left are 30 acres of restored freshwater seasonal marsh, part of the Preserve’s ongoing efforts to protect and revitalize wetland habitats. These marshes fill with water during the fall and winter months, creating crucial wintering habitat for migratory birds traveling along the Pacific Flyway. Species such as ducks, geese, and sandhill cranes rely on these wetlands to rest and feed during their long journeys. Even outside of migration season, the marsh supports a variety of resident wildlife, including amphibians and non-migratory birds like the red-winged blackbird, easily identified by its bold red and yellow shoulder patches. Restoration efforts like this help maintain the region’s biodiversity and reconnect the landscape to its natural rhythms.

Cosumnes River Preserve River Walk
  1. 1 - Trailhead
  2. 2 - Willow Slough Bridge Start
  3. 3 - On Willow Slough Bridge
  4. 4 - Managed Wetlands and Trail Intersection
  5. 5 - Blackberry Bushes
  6. 6 - Oak Galls
  7. 7 - Valley Oak and Pump Station
  8. 8 - Middle Slough
  9. 9 - Freshwater Seasonal Marsh
  10. 10 - River Otter Slides
  11. 11 - Viewing Area
  12. 12 - Cattails
  13. 13 - Mugwort
  14. 14 - Valley Oak Grove
  15. 15 - Santa Barbara Sedge
  16. 16 - Poison Oak
  17. 17 - Cosumnes River
  18. 18 - Nest Boxes
  19. 19 - Oak Savannah
  20. 20 - The Point
  21. 21 - Live Oak
  22. 22 - Valley Oak and Marsh
  23. 23 - Railroad