Nature walk · ¾–4 mi · Varies by path · 30 min–several hours

Sierra Valley Preserve offers some of the most rewarding gentle walking near the Lodge. Its trails open onto a vast landscape of wetlands, sagebrush meadows, working ranch country, and mountains in every direction. This is not simply a place to cover miles—it is a place to look, listen, and notice. The Preserve protects the headwaters of the Middle Fork Feather River and supports extraordinary bird diversity. Depending on the season, guests may see Sandhill Cranes, shorebirds, waterfowl, songbirds, eagles, hawks, and other wildlife.

The approach: Choose the East Entrance for the short interpretive walk and wildlife platform, the North Entrance for the Nature Center, or the West Entrance for botanical and overlook routes. Download the Preserve map and confirm the access you need.

Along the way: The East Entrance offers a roughly three-quarter-mile interpretive walk. Other paths extend the outing across the valley landscape; the Westside Wetlands Trail runs about two miles between the West Entrance and Nature Center. Return distance and transportation depend on your plan.

Host tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the day, when wildlife is most active and the light across the valley is beautiful. Bring binoculars even if you do not consider yourself a birder. • • • •

Before you go: Choose your entrance and check the Nature Center’s current hours. Dogs are not permitted on Preserve trails; the North Entrance’s paved Austin Road has a separate on-leash allowance. Accessible parking for the West Entrance’s Bulson House and Bluff Trail is currently affected by maintenance. Check the Preserve’s latest guidance.

Route or area information: https://www.frlt.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/SVP-Kiosk-Map-for-Event-Sharing.pdf

Details for your plan

Good for your plan

• Open valley

From the Lodge

About 15 minutes by car

The idea

Wide valley light, wetland birds, and a reason to bring binoculars.

Go straight to the source

Official information ↗

Keep exploring nearby

• Portola Riverwalk

• Graeagle Mill Pond Walk