We invite you to further explore the Preserve by strolling along on the the designated trails or participating in special excursions and events. Less than five percent of this historic habitat exists today, the rest having been converted for agriculture and urbanization. Unbanization pressures remain high in the Cosumnes River basin. Due to the nature of the unregulated river, Preserve visitors can witness the dynamic natural processes and abundant biological diversity which characterized much of the Central Valley prior to European settlement. Here where the uplands merge with the Sacramento Delta, a rich mosaic of grassland, freshwater marsh, mixed riparian forest and valley oak woodland, provides significant habitat for wildlife, as well as important opportunities for research, education and recreation.
Wildlife viewing opportunities vary with seasonal changes.
The Visitor Center and Wetland Boardwalk Trail Surrounded by wetlands and mixed riparian forest, the Preserve's Visitor Center is located on Franklin Road, approximately 2 miles south of Twin Cities Road. The building was originally constructed in 1993, but in December 1995, an arson fire completely destroyed it. Within two years the center was rebuilt and reopened. It is the central meeting place on the Preserve, and provides visitors with interpretive displays and information about the Preserve's habitats and wildlife. It is open most weekends from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Across Franklin Road, the Wetland Boardwalk Trail is open to the public daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.