From this point, you can nearly see the confluence of Middle Slough and the Cosumnes River, where the two waterways meet and blend their flows. This area is ecologically significant, supporting a variety of fish, bird, and plant species that depend on the dynamic conditions created by the merging of freshwater channels. A portion of the trail ahead has been closed to protect sensitive wildlife habitat and due to frequent seasonal flooding, which is a natural and important part of the river's life cycle. By limiting access, the Preserve helps ensure that these floodplain areas continue to provide safe nesting, feeding, and breeding grounds for native species.