Hike Description:

This walk is by Arrowhead Marsh near the Oakland Airport. The area is popular with birders because of winter waterfowl population, and frequent sighting of California Clapper Rails. We meet at 1:00 pm in the main parking lot. From 880, head toward the Oakland Airport. Turn right at Pardee Drive, then left on Swan Way, and right to enter the park. Ignore the first 2 parking areas, and continue to the end of the road by the observation tower. Approach the water. I will be sitting on the fishing dock, wearing a dorky white hat with a cape. High tide is at 1:42 pm, offering a good change of seeing a clapper rail or two. If that fails, we can try again in the late afternoon. Meanwhile, we can wander about various pond and shoreline areas to observe a variety of waterfowl. Here is a link to park information and a park map. http://www.ebparks.org/parks/mlk All walking is level and paved. Bicycles are allowed. Distance depends on what we care to do. The loop around the New Marsh and seasonal ponds is 1.5 miles. Another nice walk is along the shore to Damon Slough - 1.5 miles round trip.

Recommended Clothing:

Dress for the season. Can be breezy on some days. Sun can be sunny.

Recommended Food:

A snack is useful. Maybe something warm if the weather is cool. The park has a couple of water fountains.

Cancellation Condition:

none

Dogs Allowed:

Yes