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Baylands Nature Preserve - City of Palo Alto, Palo Alto

4.6
#2 of 9 in Parks in Palo Alto
Wildlife Area · Hidden Gem · Nature / Park
The Palo Alto Baylands Nature Preserve, known officially as the Baylands Nature Preserve, is the largest tract of undisturbed marshland remaining in the San Francisco Bay. Fifteen miles of multi-use trails provide access to a unique mixture of tidal and fresh water habitats. The preserve encompasses 1,940 acres in both Palo Alto and East Palo Alto, and is owned by the city of Palo Alto, California, United States. It is an important habitat for migratory shorebirds and is considered one of the best birdwatching spots on the West Coast.

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Baylands Nature Preserve - City of Palo Alto reviews

Rate this attraction
TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
114 reviews
Google
4.8
TripAdvisor
  • By tako524
    Sun rises over Sierra Nevada on a clear, crisp October morning of Palo Alto. Nothing blocks the view. It is all yours.  more »
  • By DiscerningOnes
    The Baylands Nature Preserve can be best enjoyed from within the car, with the windows tightly closed, and without staying very long. Is there a sewage treatment next to it, or does it just smell...  more »
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Google
  • By Rebecca Delekta
    A tucked away treasure of remaining wetland ecosystems. Very friendly staff to educate at the eco center. Lots of hiking/ biking trails around the marshes and further inland to explore the preserve and spot wildlife. Beautiful picturesque scenes. Plus free parking!
  • By David Zink-Brody
    Restored wetlands, wider tidal basins , creek deltas, flood catchments, pedestrian bridges accessing neighborhoods, and a smaller eco municipal golf course makes the Baylands excellent for hiking and running and biking (and adjacent golf) . Many paths paved. Wetland restorations appear to have made wildlife more numerous. Good for all ages and accessibility, including duck pond and interpretive center for kids and all.
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