Guide to Paddling the Cosumnes River Preserve

Overview

Is the Cosumnes River Preserve on your summer bucket list this year? This nature oasis, located just 20 minutes from Elk Grove, is a piece of paradise that will leave you in appreciation and wonder of the great outdoors.

One of the best ways to view the serene wildlife of the Preserve is by canoe or kayak. Grab your boat and paddle to take advantage of the Cosumnes River Preserve’s monthly guided paddling tours or embark on a solo adventure with the tips below.

What To Bring

Whether you’re enjoying a weekend retreat in Elk Grove or searching for an excursion in your own backyard, the Cosumnes River Preserve welcomes you to enjoy the waterways. Plan for your visit with a simple checklist: canoe or kayak, paddles, and a personal flotation device. Insiders suggest dressing in layers of quick-drying clothing, along with a hat to shield the summer sun. Be sure to plan your visit to the Preserve by evaluating the tides and currents predictions for the day here.

How to Get There

Start your adventure on the 80-mile river by heading to the Cosumnes River Preserve Visitor’s Center with free parking. Not only does the Visitor’s Center provide great resources for your visit, but the location offers convenient access to a safe boat dock about 200 yards from the upper parking lot. Utilize one of the canoe carts at the Visitor's Center to launch your non-motorized watercraft with ease.

Once you’re floating along the waterways, it is important to familiarize yourself with the area. This knowledge should include the two designated take-out locations, “The Point” and the “Tall Forest”, as well as the recommended route from Cosumnes River Preserve.

Take the Recommended Scenic Route

The Preserve suggests a leisurely 3-hour cruise along the river’s sloughs and main channel. From the launch point, head south to enter the main body of the middle Slough, paddling east, away from Franklin Boulevard. Once in the heart of the middle Slough, turn left and paddle upstream to cross under the historic railroad bridge. On your left, you will see “The Point”, one of two take-out points along the river tour.

If you wish to continue taking in the riparian forest, oak woodland, and wetlands, head upstream from the fork of the Cosumnes River and Tihuechemne Slough. This river channel will narrow and bend; paddlers are advised to proceed with caution as swift currents are common in this spot. Once the river straightens, you will see Preserve land on your left, and private property on your right. Head to the left where the forest opens up and you will find the second and last take-out point, “Tall Forest”. Be sure to stay in the clearing area of the Tall Forest adjacent to the river, as the forest is a highly sensitive wildlife and habitat area.

Instead of utilizing the designated take-out points, visitors also have the option of heading back downstream to the boat dock by crossing under the railroad bridge and going north into the Middle Slough. During your tour, you’ll likely see forest birds, raptors, egrets, herons, cormorants, and possibly a beaver and/or an otter!

Dos and Don'ts at the Preserve

In a conscious effort to preserve the wildlife and habitat of the Cosumnes River Preserve, visitors are expected to take precautions and care of their surroundings. Check out these helpful “Dos and Don’ts” of the Preserve to keep plants, animals, and yourself safe during your visit.

DO:

  • Familiarize yourself with the recommended route and human access points
  • Wear a personal flotation device at all times; this is required by the Cosumnes River Preserve for guests’ safety
  • Be sensitive to the habitat and wildlife of the Preserve

DO NOT:

  • Bring pets to the Preserve
  • Approach nests or den sites
  • Camp, fish, or hunt on the property; this is prohibited by the Cosumnes River Preserve
  • Trespass on private property during your visit

As you prepare to paddle the waters of the Cosumnes River Preserve, ensure your trip is both safe and enjoyable by referring to the route and insider tips. We invite you to visit the Preserve for a memorable experience. Register for a monthly guided tour here or contact Cosumnes River Preserve for further information.

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