The Corteva Wetlands Preserve

Even though I've back doored my way through nearby Black Diamond Mines, this was actually my first time in Antioch proper even though it's grown to become the second largest city in Contra Costa Country. You really can't tell how big it is from Highway 4. I presume the growth is from suburban sprawl, what I call the Do-You-Know-the-Way-to-San-Jose Syndrome. As everything looks somewhat generic, I was having my usual navigational challenges in getting to the wetlands.You head toward the Antioch City Marina where you see a big parking lot meant to accommodate the trailers for local boat owners. There's also a popular seafood restaurant next to the boats, and then you notice a tree-shrouded walkway where you finally come upon the entrance to the wetlands. There was a brushfire not more than a week before, so the first section of the trail was burnt to cinders with the smell of embers still quite strong. Eventually I came out of it and explored the area first by way of a boardwalk surrounded by tall grasses.It then turned into flat dirt trails that make their way to the edge of the San Joaquin River. You definitely feel like you're deep in Delta country with all the waterfowl and mudflats. There are observation decks that give you clearer views of the 470 acres that make up the wetlands. It was previously called the Dow Wetlands Preserve for the chemical plant nearby. I presume Corteva sponsors the area now, and agriscience seems like a more appropriate connection to make with this area.RELATED - Up for a hike? Here's a collection of trails I've walked and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2OrC8nU

The Corteva Wetlands Preserve is located right in downtown Antioch by the waterfront. It has a nice little shaded trail and area that overlooks the water. You can park at the wharf docking area and follow it. It's a small little trail and nice to take the kids for a little walk. There are some tables at the end but lots of places for shade!You get a nice view of the delta and to access you can walk from downtown Antioch or you can walk from the parking area of the wharf which is a huge parking lot.

This natural area is stunning. It's always nice and serene here. During a hectic work week, this is the ideal spot to relax and recharge your batteries. I enjoy going for walks and runs here because of the fresh air and beautiful environment.There are several birds to observe as well as the ocean, boat and wetlands. It's good for kids. Remember to bring a hat because it's windy and there's no shade. On the hottest summer days, expect to be live-baked here.Make sure your vehicles are locked and that you do not leave any valuables inside. In the past, I've noticed some broken glass shattered around. Should have a friend or companion, as I've seen a few drunken men and homeless people in the area. Don't follow the unmarked trails. They will lead you alongside of rail road tracks where homeless people stay. Just going on the main track you should be fine.

Very run down, burned down and lots of trash/glass on paths. Visited here a week ago hoping to see its beauty but I was very disappointed. Much of the accessible path is burned and the surrounding areas are littered with trash and glass. Sadly, a lot of homeless people call this place home and it looks like a fires burned through here recently. I wouldn't recommend bringing your dog here for a walk due to the glass. Also, the parking lot was a little sketchy..

One of the best wetland trails I've ever been to. The trail itself was easy to navigate. Flat terrain and just long enough not to be too hard. It takes you through a single lane trail, not too skinny, but a trail that has right straight into the wetlands. You feel like you're going into another world. Blackberry bushes around you as you walk through. The trail was also scattered with loads of raccoon . You can tell they've been eating the crawfish. They were very sour post you could climb up on and look over all the plants growing and see how big the Delta is. I love the little trail that led off and was floating over the water. Would not recommend bringing little kids on that trailer unless you really know they're not gonna run away from you. At the end of the Trail is a loop called the Lee loop. Named after someone who worked there for 20+ years. It was a very sweet sign talking about it. And there's actually a working at water wheels there. The tank is overflowing and if you Stand just right you can get a little spray of water in the heat of the day. Speaking of the heat of the day. This trail does not provide too much shade. So be prepared and bring plenty of water. I look forward to going back in the morning time or afternoon. Or in the winter when it's not so hot. Happy trails.

Hard to find, but once you get there it's serene and peaceful. Not many people are here, which was nice.Review for short hike on a Saturday late morning, April 2018.Shade: very little! Make sure to bring a hat on a hot day.Parking: very small lot.Fencing: if you think there's a short cut or a hole in the fence to get back to your car, there isn't!

A 470 acre wildlife preserve along a scenic stretch of land on the San Joaquin River, created in 1989. With walking trails (relatively flat), beaver ponds, tidal wetlands and marsh areas. Its a beautiful area that is home to many, many different species of birds, some endangered I hear. I spotted a small boating dock to walk out on and look in the tulle's to find critters, none today. Lots of birds flying overhead, watch out for droppings!! Its kinda an easy hike around the preserve, its got larger rocks and it might be a little hard for a stroller or a wheel chair. Some areas are OK. There are no benches until you get to a viewing platform, once up top you can overlook the wetlands and get that 'birds eye view'. No restrooms, no water, limited shade so wear sunblock or bring a hat. My face and shoulders got toasty today. Hours: sunrise to sunset.

Walking with my grandson on the trail was a great experience for both of us. They have strategically placed benches for rest stops, sanicans and elevated viewing areas. I highly recommend this hike to anyone who enjoys communing with nature. The only thing I would add is snake warning signs because I'm pretty sure they are out there.

Gorgeous flat hiking trails through the wetlands habitats. See otters, nesting geese, coyote , turkeys, and other critters. Great for the whole family

Great hike! I picked it up from the Antioch Marina. Walked along the side walk that is on the south end of the parking lot. Follow along the water and then the trail heads west. Easy for beginners. My go to hike when I'm looking for something easy. The breeze from the Delta makes it nice too!When your done, you can stop by Smith's Landing for a bite to eat as well.