Arcata Marsh & Wildlife Sanctuary

This is a prime spot for birding, hiking (all easy hikes) and great views of the Arcata Bay. At any time of the year birds or mammals can be viewed from one of the many trails that network the over 225 acres that are open to the public.

Located at the north end of Humboldt Bay, the sanctuary is situated along the Pacific Flyway, a major migratory route for thousands of birds that breed in the far north and winter in California, Mexico, and Central and South America. These wetlands provide homes and migratory resting places for over 270 species of birds.

Although birding is good year round, it’s best from mid-July to early May. Songbirds are abundant from spring through fall. A variety of raptors reside or visit here seasonally. From October through April, look for waterfowl, shorebirds and wading birds.  

The Arcata Marsh Interpretive Center on South "G" Street has a bookstore, free maps and literature, interpretive displays, bird lists and log of recent bird sightings.     

The Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary is a world famous innovative wetland system built as a cost-effective and environmentally sound wastewater treatment solution. In addition to effectively fulfilling wastewater treatment needs, it provides an inspiring bay view window to the benefits of integrated wetland enhancement and wastewater treatment.

Free guided tours are held weekly by Frends of the Atcata Marsh and 
the Redwood Region Audubon Society.

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  • end of South "I" St , Arcata, CA 95521
  • Recurring weekly on Saturday
  • Interpretive Center
  • 569 S G Street, South G Street, Arcata, CA 95521
  • 569 South "G" St, Arcata, CA 95521
  • Recurring every January 11th
  • Arcata Marsh
  • meet on South "I" Street, 1st parking lot past Samoa Blvd., Arcata, CA 95521