June 15, 2018

Palo Alto: Palo Alto Duck Pond + Baylands Nature Preserve; things to do

101 South

Palo Alto Duck Pond  

2775 Embarcadero Rd., a E end, (650) 617-3156.  Daily sunrise-sunset.  Free. 

Located in a quiet, unpopulated area away from town, this large pond is one of the Bay Area’s best spots to see ducks, birds, and the occasional swan.  In winter, unusual migrating birds are also seen here at the Palo Alto Duck Pond.  According to the Association of Bay Area Governments, "The concrete-lined pond was originally a saltwater swimming pool when it was built in the 1930's, but because of siltation problems, it was converted into a bird refuge in 1947."  A paved 0.9-mile loop trail leads around the pond--perfect for a leisurely walk or tricycle ride for kids--and an adjacent small airport provides plane-watching fun.  Benches are available.  Visitors are asked not to feed the birds.  

sign at Palo Alto Duck Pond in Palo Alto, California
sign at Palo Alto Duck Pond in Palo Alto, California


bird description sign at Palo Alto Duck Pond in Palo Alto, California
bird description sign at Palo Alto Duck Pond in Palo Alto, California


overview of Palo Alto Duck Pond in Palo Alto, California
overview of Palo Alto Duck Pond in Palo Alto, California


small plane coming in for landing near Palo Alto Duck Pond in Palo Alto, California
small plane coming in for landing near Palo Alto Duck Pond
in Palo Alto, California


Baylands Nature Preserve 

Across the street.

The Baylands Nature Preserve has 15 miles of trails.  Considered one of the best bird watching areas on the West Coast and a major migratory stopover on the Pacific Flyway, the preserve is also popular with wind surfers and kayakers.  The free-admission Lucy Evans Baylands Nature Interpretive Center has exhibits that orient visitors to the area.  During daylight hours, visitors can walk out over the 120-acre salt marsh on an 800-foot-long raised wooden walkway.  Naturalist-led walks are scheduled on weekends.

duck crossing sign at Baylands Nature Preserve and Palo Alto Duck Pond in Palo Alto, California
duck crossing sign at Baylands Nature Preserve and Palo Alto Duck Pond
in Palo Alto, California


More things to do in Palo Alto.

More ideas for exploring Northern California.

images ©2018 Carole Terwilliger Meyers
updated 2-2-21

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