Published: Jun 28, 2013 | 21:09 PM

Off the Beaten Path of San Joaquin Marsh

The Roads Less Traveled

Most visitors to the Irvine Ranch Water District San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary are familiar with the Riparian View entrance because many trails begin behind the Duck Club and Audubon House. There are lesser-known trails – one off Campus Drive and the other on Carlson Avenue.

“This is a nice time to walk out there and visit the restored San Diego Creek bed,” said IRWD Supervising Wetlands/Wildlife Biologist Ian Swift.

The Carlson Avenue entry contains a 600-foot trail completed in 2005 through the Carlson Marsh. The completion of this portion of the trail added to the overall 12-mile trail network within the wildlife sanctuary. The trail offers a different perspective of the Marsh and even more opportunities for viewing a variety of wildlife.

Visitors must park on the west side of Carlson Avenue when using the Carlson entrance. Viewing platforms on Campus Drive offer an interesting overview of the Marsh.  Parking is available on the north side of Campus Drive.

The Marsh is located on the Pacific flyway and is home to more than 200 species of birds throughout the year. There are kiosks throughout the Marsh, where hikers may pick up trail maps and other interesting tidbits. More information on the Marsh is located on our website.