Bay Nature Hike: Estero Americano Coast Preserve

This event is inspired by this Spring 2026 piece A Stunning Preserve on the Sonoma Coast is Open, by Britta Shoot

Join Bay Nature, Ryan Berger, and Corby Hines for a hike at Estero Americano Coast Preserve on Thursday, September 3 from 10am - 12pm. As mentioned in the article by Britta, "the 547-acre preserve itself protects rare coastal prairie habitat". During our hike along the Bluff Trail we will ease into the morning and learn about a recent restoration project done to restore more than five acres of willow riparian habitat and coastal wetlands. Midway through the hike, folks will have the option to descend down to the mouth of the estero, before looping back along the Access Trail. Located between the Pacific Flyway and the Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary we hope to have plenty of wildlife sights and bird watching opportunities. 

Details

• Location: Shorttail Gulch Coastal Access Trail, 20345 Osprey Dr, Bodega Bay, CA 94923 (Map)
• Distance: ~ Approximately 3 miles
• Difficulty: Easy - Moderate; gentle walking on dirt trails with some uneven surfaces and modest elevation changes
• Parking: There is free parking available on the public streets near the trailhead. Please be respectful of community members and park in a manner that allows emergency vehicles to pass through if needed, obeying speed limits and do not park in front of fire hydrants or blocking driveways. When parking on Osprey Lane please park along the curb on the SAME side as the Shorttail Gulch Trailhead
• Restrooms: Access is limited. Please plan to use the restroom before arrival

What to bring: Water, hats, sunscreen, cameras, binoculars if desired, snacks / lunch if desired, and comfortable walking shoes.

Weather note: Late mornings on the Sonoma / Marin Coast are typically mild, clearing up nicely as fog burns off. Dressing in layers in recommended.

Meet your guides:

Ryan Berger has his Master of Science degree from Georgia Southern University focusing on manatee behavior and has spent his professional conservation career with Point Blue Conservation Science's Farallon Islands Program, The Marine Mammal Center's Rescue and Response Program and currently serves as The Wildlands Conservancy's Sonoma Coast Preserves Manager. When not working you can find him in the rivers and streams of coastal California and adventuring in the high country of the Sierras.

With a degree in Wildlife Biology from the University of Montana, Corby Hines has worked as a backcountry trail worker, environmental educator, salmonid scientist, and nature guide prior to his current role with the The Wildlands Conservancy as the Sonoma Coast Preserves Assistant Manager. In his free time he enjoys surfing the ocean and exploring the mountains.

Tickets: This event is free for Bay Nature members. Registration is limited.

Note: Because Bay Nature events often fill quickly with waitlists, registrants are asked to place a $25 refundable attendance deposit. Deposits are refunded after attendance and are forfeited only in the event of a no-show or cancellation. This helps ensure that limited spaces are available to those who can attend.

Additional information

• Dogs are not allowed on Bay Nature events
• Please stay on designated trails

Photo by Rick Lewis