This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Health & Fitness

Walk the Wetlands

Take advantage of a free opportunity to walk in the Los Cerritos Wetlands. It is a fun and informative experience.

Take advantage of a free opportunity to see some important, now publicly owned, wetlands in Los Angeles County.

The nature hike of the Hellman Ranch Lowlands is set for 8 a.m. Saturday.

The entrance to the wetlands is on the inland side of the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and First Street, just at the border of Long Beach and Seal Beach.  There is ample parking.

Find out what's happening in Belmont Shore-Napleswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The hike lasts about two hours and is guided by Eric Zahn and Taylor Parker, who are wetlands ecologists.

This nature hike offers something for everyone.

Find out what's happening in Belmont Shore-Napleswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The last time I took this hike we saw a blue and white Kingfisher, heard the songs of Meadowlarks and had a close encounter with a coyote.  We learned about the history of the area and plans for its future.

We observed the tidal flow from the wetlands to and from the ocean, as well as the seasonal ponds.

I especially enjoyed the walkway along the border between the Heron Pointe neighborhood and the wetlands.

There are many native plants and educational placards describing the flora and fauna are found along the walk. 

Some Girl Scouts were on the walk with me and two of them said they enjoyed seeing the birds and the animals, especially the bunny.

Another scout liked learning about the history of the area.  A fourth said, “I want people to have as much fun as I did today.”      

You can have a fun and educational experience as well.  For more information or to RSVP for Saturday's nature walk, contact Elizabeth at ejlambe@verizon.net.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?

More from Belmont Shore-Naples