Bay Nature Hike: Pacheco Marsh

02/21/2026 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM PT

Description

Join Bay Nature and the John Muir Land Trust for a restoration walk at Pacheco Marsh on Saturday, February 21 from 2pm - 4pm. Nestled between three refineries and a dump site, the marsh is a hidden oasis that serves as home for many animals and as a resting point for migratory birds. The walk will showcase decades-long efforts in restoring over 200 acres of salt marsh in the Martinez Delta shorelines. We will see an array of both native and introduced marsh plants and get a glimpse at some stewardship practices that JMLT is currently undergoing to maintain the health of the marsh. We will also be seeing some commonly seen resident birds and mammals, and if we are lucky, we will see some migratory birds as they rest and continue on their long journey. The hike will consist of a loop trail system that is about 2.5 miles in length with no elevation gain and no shade. We will start and end at the main parking lot. Restrooms are available and there is no running water at the marsh. Tickets are free for Bay Nature Members.

Meet Your Hike Leaders:

Ricardo Black is the Manager of Stewardship & Public Outreach and Engagement at John Muir Land Trust, and as a Certified Interpretive Guide he enjoys sharing the insights he’s gained over the years to motivate people to learn, connect and nurture the land we live on. Graduated from UC Davis and working for various organizations along the way like EBRPD and UC Davis Arboretum, he has gained an appreciation for California native plants and for sharing it with people who want to learn about them. He doubles down on restoration, and his passion and enthusiasm to share plant knowledge fuels his efforts to restore and teach people.

Meet up Location: Meet up in the parking lot at Pacheco Marsh, 2501 Waterfront Road in Martinez (Google Maps Link). Head East on Waterfront Road and take a left. Please note: As you near our meet up location, you'll likely see signs for Waterbird Regional Park, but we aren't meeting there, instead go to Pacheco Marsh off of Waterfront Road. We'll have an A-frame set up for you to see our location. *Also, make sure to search for "Pacheco Marsh, 2501 Waterfront Road" in your Google Maps search for this location—if you just type in "2501 Waterfront Road" you may be routed to a different, nearby location, so make sure you include the words "Pacheco Marsh." Please make sure you're navigating to the parking area specified, which should just off of Waterfront Road.

Length and difficulty: This hike is approximately 2.5 miles long and is relatively flat. The path will follow a mostly gravel road, though some areas can be muddy if there is rain leading up to the event.

Parking: Pacheco Marsh, 2501 Waterfront Road in Martinez (link). Please note: Make sure to include "Pacheco Marsh" in your Google Maps search for this location—if you just type in "2501 Waterfront Road" you'll be routed to a different, nearby location. Make sure you're navigating to the parking area specified.

Weather Note: Light rain will not cancel this event, but in the event of stormy weather we will reschedule. Please keep an eye on your email inboxes the week of the event for any weather updates.

Access to restrooms and water: No water available. There are bathrooms available. Please plan to bring your own water.

Other notes:

Water bottles
Warm and windproof layers (a vest, a beanie, gloves, etc.)
Snacks
Sun protection
Hiking poles to assist with balance if needed
Comfortable walking / hiking shoes
Binoculars / cameras if you'd like

No dogs are allowed on Bay Nature hikes. All minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entirety of the hike.

Photo by Ricardo Black