Watsonville's city trails open the wetlands close to home

Watsonville’s wetlands are not hidden far away from town. The city trail system gives access to a large freshwater wetland area through neighborhood entrances, short walks, and interpretive signs. The wetlands feel like part of daily Watsonville, not a separate nature trip.

The wetlands trail system has more than seven miles of paths and many neighborhood entrances. Routes can include places like Watsonville Slough, Ohlone Trail, and Upper Struve Slough. Dogs are allowed on leash, and some trail sections are identified as more accessible than others.

Go gently. Wetlands are living habitat, so staying on the path matters. Use the city trail map and FAQ to choose a route, check leash and bike rules, and avoid assuming every slough or boardwalk has the same access.

The neighborhood entrances are part of the value. A visitor may start at a signed trailhead, while a resident may enter from a nearby street, so the official map helps avoid wandering into the wrong edge.