Trail Closure

At Kirby Park, the accessible trail remains closed due to storm damage.

Kayaking on Rubis Creek

Photo by Paul Zaretsky

Visit

Visit Elkhorn Slough

Hike, kayak, birdwatch, volunteer, and much more

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Recreation Opportunities

Elkhorn Slough is a magical place to visit. Otters and seals play in the estuary. Native plants and wildflowers pepper the valleys and hills overlooking the water. Hundreds of bird species pass through each year as they migrate up and down the Pacific Flyway.

Between Kirby Park, Moss Landing, and the Elkhorn Slough Reserve (with its five miles of trails, picnic areas, and a visitor center), there are many ways to experience the beauty of the slough.

Photographer in the oaks ESF land

Photo by Paul Zaretsky

Whale tail submerging in water

Photo by Joe Platko

Group of kayakers raft

Photo by Paul Zaretsky

Highlights

Volunteers with plants
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Volunteer at Elkhorn Slough

Whether you’re a green thumb looking to restore habitats, a naturalist hoping to share your love of the wetlands, or just someone who wants to get outside and give us a hand, there’s a place for you here!

Elkhorn Slough aerial

Meet the People Protecting Elkhorn Slough

For more than 40 years, a close-knit group of public and private organizations has been working together to safeguard the natural treasures of Elkhorn Slough.

Further Afield

Photo by Kevin Lohman Photography

harbor seal laughing
Beyond the Reserve

With five state beaches, several parks and preserves, and two wildlife areas nearby, the Elkhorn Slough area offers even more places to go hiking (with and without your dog), birding, fishing, horseback riding, camping, or boating. For more information about kayaking, boat tours, pet-friendly areas, and more, please visit our FAQs page.

FAQs

Photo by Bob Levy

Moss Landing double rainbow
Moss Landing

Moss Landing sits at the mouth of Elkhorn Slough. Once a prominent whaling center, Moss Landing is now home to great restaurants, antique shops, and galleries. Its harbor provides a home base for research, sightseeing, and fishing vessels as they venture into Elkhorn Slough, Monterey Bay, and beyond. For more information, please visit the Moss Landing Chamber of Commerce.

Learn More
Bird silhouette in the water

Photo by Clayton Mansnerus

Keep Elkhorn Wild

Give today to preserve the lands and waters of Elkhorn Slough for future generations.

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