Show All Answers

1. Where can I get a trail map?

Trail maps are available on the outside of the City Nature Center, located at 30 Harkins Slough Rd. Maps are also available at City Hall and Libraries, or you can download the Trail Map (PDF).

2. Who is allowed to use the trails?

Walkers, joggers, cyclists as well as birders and nature lovers are welcome to access any of the trails. Baby strollers are fine too!

3. Are there any trails that are ADA accessible?

Yes. There are several trails that are ADA accessible. Please see trail map for appropriate entrances.

View the Trail Map (PDF).

4. Are dogs allowed on the trails?

Only dogs on leash are allowed on the trails. Dog owners are required to pick up their pet’s waste and dispose of it in the trash.

5. How are the trails maintained?

The City works regularly with the help of several volunteer groups to keep the slough and river trails free of litter and debris. In the summer of 2018, Measure D funds will be utilized to regrade or repave the trails in a few key locations.

6. Is boating or kayaking allowed in the sloughs?

Although the City does not prohibit boating in the sloughs, it discourages it in order to protect the wetland habitat and its wildlife. 

Reasons include:

• Over 20 endangered or threatened species live here, and hundreds of species of birds utilize the wetlands as a food source and/or nesting site.
• Migratory water fowl raise their young here and some make floating nests.
• The generally shallow sloughs vary in depth and sections have high aquatic plant density that can create problems for boaters.
• There is very limited access to park and reach the water with your boat that will not trample plant and wildlife habitat.
• The City does not have the resources to assist boaters if anything goes wrong.

Note: For sections of the wetlands on the west side of the highway, the public must obtain permission from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to enter.

7. Can I go on a guided trail tour?

Yes, guided tours are offered every Sunday at 1:30 at the City Nature Center.

Visit the Watsonville Nature Center page.

8. Where are the trail entrances?

There are 29 trail entrances in Watsonville neighborhoods to over 7 miles of trails.
Please see the
Trail Map (PDF) for locations.