Monterey Bay, California: Elkhorn Slough

Elkhorn Slough is one of the best places in North America to see birds, and the best place for wheelchair riders to get close to the slough is little Kirby Park, at the upper end of Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Reserve.

Close to 350 bird species live in the slough or migrate through. The slough reaches seven miles inland from Moss Landing harbor. The reserve encompasses 3,000 acres of salt marshes, mudflats, waterways, oak woodlands, and grasslands. A short (about .25 mile) accessible trail travels along the slough and across mudflats, providing plenty of opportunities to see egrets, sandpipers, terns, warblers, loons, peregrine falcons, and many other birds, even occasionally such rarities as white-faced ibis. The park also has a boat launch for small watercraft, and the steep concrete launch ramp may allow some wheelchair riders to reach the water.

Trail/Pathway Details

see access criteria for definitions

• Trailhead: West end of the parking lot near the restroom
  Length: Under one mile total
• Typical Width: 4 ft. & above
  Boardwalk narrows to 3.5 feet
• Typical Grade: Level
• Terrain: Hard
  The boardwalk is slightly bumpy.
• Obstacles: A switchback at the trail entrance may be difficult for scooters.

Description
The first third of the trail travels along the edge of the slough. Pickleweed is the predominant plant, its crimson colors contrasting nicely with the surrounding water. You cross the mudflats on a narrow boardwalk that is several hundred feet long, with vista points and pullouts that are wide enough to turn around on the otherwise narrow trail. The boardwalk ends at a step down to an inaccessible dirt path. On the return, you see hills dotted with grapevines and fruit trees. You will likely encounter photographers and birders.

Accessibility Details

The facilities listed below meet all of our access criteria unless otherwise noted.

• Accessible Parking: No
  Even though there is no designated disabled parking, you will likely be able to take up two spaces in the large, typically empty lot.
• Accessible Restroom: Yes
  West end of the parking lot. The portable unit has no sink.

Additional Information

• Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
• Map: See here.
• Fees: None
• Dogs: On a leash