Hiking Trails at the Cosumnes River Preserve

Trail Overview

There are over 4 miles of trails to explore at the Preserve.

Access: Both the River Walk Trail and Wetlands Walk Trail can be accessed from the trailhead just north of the Visitor Center or across the street at the boardwalk.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. The River Walk Trail is flat, dirt and runs along a raised levee with sections that are shaded and open. The Wetlands Walk Trail is flat and paved, mostly in open habitat.

Note: Dogs are not allowed on or off-leash at the Preserve.

Trails You’ll Find

Wetlands Walk Trail

A one-mile universally-accessible trail offering up-close views of lush marshes, wetland plants, water-birds, insects and amphibians. There is also a wooden boardwalk trail which is ADA accessible (~½ mile round trip) with a viewing platform at the end.

River Walk Trail

A ~3+ mile round-trip trail on raised levees passing through buttonbush thickets, native grasslands, valley oak riparian forest, cottonwood-willow riparian forest, tule marsh and restoration sites. During winter, the natural flood cycle may cause portions of the trail to be inundated by flood-waters.

Howard Ranch Trail

The Howard Ranch Trail begins at the Rancho Seco Recreational Area and winds around the north end of Rancho Seco Lake. It is a 7-mile out‐and‐back (3.5 miles each way) trail featuring vernal pools, seasonal wetlands, riparian and marsh habitat, oak woodland, and views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Note: This trail is on the adjacent recreational area and has its own fees and access rules.

Planning Your Visit

Trailhead Address:
Cosumnes River Preserve
13501 Franklin Blvd, Galt, CA 95632

Parking Lots: Open Monday – Sunday, 9 AM – 5 PM.

Digital resources: View our Digital Trail Guide, Digital Trail Guide for Kids, River Walk Audio Tour & Wetlands Walk Audio Tour.

You can also download a printable version of the map (PDF).