Water Ranch Middle Route

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Lake · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch is built around the Southeast Regional Library. The loops nearest the library are improved and easy to run. There are areas to fish and enjoy the many water fowl and turtles that are here year round.

Migratory patterns put this little gem at the center of a very active birding community. You're likely to encounter multiple large camera rigs pointed at birds and smaller ones pointed at people. There are many beautiful views and this is a hub for wedding, family, prom, and engagement photos.

Public restrooms are available as mentioned.

Start at the common trailhead that is due east of the library. Then move southwest along the fishing lake, which is paved. Take the first fork right after you've made it half way around the fishing lake and then follow the map. Most of the trails here are gravel, fairly firm, and generally wide and flat.

There is only one slight elevation change, and the first and last 0.8 miles or so are paved. Most of the trails here are gravel, fairly firm, and generally wide and flat. There's a public restroom and water fountain near the ramadas along the last stretch, about 0.2 miles from the end.

One of the most convenient and packed birding locations I've ever seen. Rabbits, squirrels, feral cats, fish and turtles in the pond, many birds raptors, waterfowl, local and migratory species. Wildflowers and local flora bloom seasonally.