DeForest Wetlands Trail

The DeForest Wetlands Trail occupies a space adjacent to the Los Angeles River and within the more recreationally developed DeForest Park.

While the park has amenities such as softball fields, tennis courts, bathrooms and water fountains, the fenced in wetlands area lies near the southern portion of the larger park. Inside are several short trails passing through the improved area of what is a flood control channel for the LA River. Several interpretive signs greet visitors, and dirt track loops around either side of the central waterway.

While not all of the trails are ADA friendly, a good portion of the paths are accessible, including an observation bridge built over the wetlands stream and flora. Several trails cut across the stream, combining either sides of the loop, which allows visitors to choose a distance that they are comfortable with. The trails continue south of an overhead traffic bridge, however the main wetlands area lies north of that bridge.

The wetlands trails and area are open from dawn to dusk daily. More information can be found at the City of Long Beach's website. it needs to be noted that there is sometimes a homeless presence in and around the wetlands and flood control area, as well as signs of past small fires in these areas that may detract from the overall experience.