Rodeo Lagoon Loop

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Views

Run through grasslands, coastal scrub, estuary, and beach. Look for migrating shorebirds resting in Rodeo Lagoon in spring and fall, and stop for a picnic on Rodeo Beach. The elevation gain is minimal, and the views are fabulous on this run!

From the trailhead, cross the bridge and come to the junction with the Rodeo Valley Trail. Take a left and proceed 0.3 miles through low-lying coastal scrub plant habitat, then make a left (down a few stairs) onto the Bobcat Trail. In less than 0.1 miles, turn left onto the Miwok Trail and proceed through a beautiful meadow.

Pass through the fire road gate into a parking lot, and cross Bunker Road. Turn left and follow the Rodeo Lagoon Loop Trail clockwise around the lagoon. Enjoy beautiful views of Rodeo Beach and the Pacific Ocean on the south side of the lagoon. The trail follows along the Rodeo Beach for a few hundred yards. This is a great place to stop and explore or to break out your picnic lunch!

Once you are ready to continue on, cross the footbridge to continue on the loop. An optional side trip would be to The Marine Mammal Center, where injured animals recuperated. Upon completion of the Rodeo Lagoon Loop, return to the trailhead by following your footsteps across Bunker Road, Miwok Trail, Bobcat Trail, and Rodeo Valley Trail.

You will have the chance to see several species of shore birds in the Rodeo Lagoon.