Santa Cruz Day Trip: Elkhorn Slough Reserve

Located outside of Watsonville, California, between the communities of Elkhorn and Las Lomas, Elkhorn Slough Reserve is a large estuary and open space just inland from Monterey Bay. At about 3,600 acres in size (of the 45,000 acres in total), this conservation area is home to a multitude of plants and wildlife, including sixteen different animal species with the threatened or endangered designation. The staff at Elkhorn Slough Reserve work to preserve and restore the natural habitat for the animals that live there, as well as provide education to those who visit. 

Discover why a trip to Elkhorn Slough Reserve makes for an incredible day out in the Santa Cruz area, perfect for hikers and nature-lovers alike.

Elkhorn Slough Reserve: A Brief Overview

1700 Elkhorn Road, Watsonville, California

The area that is now Elkhorn Slough Reserve was originally a riverbed, with miles of land between it and Monterey Bay. Over thousands of years, the landscape of the region changed, forming an estuary—the parts of freshwater rivers and small streams that meet the sea, and subsequently mix with saltwater. While the area spans 45,000 acres total, only portions of the region belong to Elkhorn Slough Reserve. Other portions belong to other conservations and private owners. 

Open five days a week (closed Mondays and Tuesdays), from nine to five, Elkhorn Slough Reserve is about a 35-minute drive south from downtown Santa Cruz, and about a 30-minute drive north from Monterey. West of the park is the Moss Landing Wildlife Area, which is another large conservation. Additionally, those who visit Elkhorn do sometimes stop by Kirby Park—a simple parking lot on the riverside with a dock for fishing and a walking trail. As of September 2024, the trail at Kirby Park is temporarily closed on account of recent storm damage.

Ample parking is available at the reserve and admission is free. Elkhorn Slough Reserve does offer a number of tours and special events, which can either be booked online or are available at a first come, first serve basis.

Park Amenities & Facilities 

There’s much to see and do at Elkhorn Slough Reserve. Once visitors have parked, many make their way to the Visitor Center. Inside are a number of exhibits on topics surrounding the animals who call the reserve home and the environment. This is also where visitors can use the restroom, view the trail maps, and have lunch on one of the many outdoor picnic tables. All trailheads begin at the Visitor Center.

Elkhorn Slough Reserve provides a selection of tours, including ones for youth groups and schools, large groups, and themed/seasonal walks. The reserve offers the following special tours:

• Early Bird Tour (bird-watching tour on the first Saturday of the month)

• Weekend Guided Tours (sign up upon arrival at the Visitors Center)

• Mindfulness Walks (fourth Saturday of the month)

The Spring WildFlower Walk and King Tide Walk are annual guided tours that consistently draw a crowd. In October, Elkhorn Slough Reserve is hosting the following events:

• Migratory Bird Day (October 12)

• Kayaking Elkhorn Slough With The Elkhorn Slough Foundation (October 19)

• Garden Stewards: Acorn Collecting (October 19)

Typically, special events and tours require advance sign-up. This can be done on their website, where more information can also be found.

Wildlife And Trails At Elkhorn Slough Reserve

There are five miles of trails at the reserve, which weave through the grasses, mudflats, and marshland from the Visitors Center to the coast. The South Marsh Loop, the conservation's longest trail, is two miles in length and can take hikers to Hummingbird Island (an additional 0.3 miles). Five Fingers Loop and Long Valley Loop are 1.1 miles and 0.8 miles in length, respectively. Visitors can also pass by the two barns, which are considered landmarks of the reserve.

Some of the notable animals in the park include otters, seals, and 340 different species of birds. Parts of the park are wheelchair accessible, though a significant portion of the hiking trails are not.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What sort of things do I have to be careful of at Elkhorn Slough Reserve?

A: Like any other preserve, ensure that you take nothing but pictures and leave nothing but footprints. Sunscreen is recommended and trail maps are available online and at the Visitors Center.

Q: Is Elkhorn Slough Reserve dog-friendly?

A: Unfortunately, your furry friend is not allowed at Elkhorn Slough Preserve. 

Q: Can I kayak at Elkhorn Slough Reserve?

A: Kayaking is a popular activity around the reserve, but boats must be launched at Moss Landing or Kirby Park.

Discover day trips to Elkhorn Slough Reserve and more with a home in the Santa Cruz area Contact Lauren Spencer online or call 1.800.226.4717 for additional area information. Find your Santa Cruz County dream home today.