Accessible Pathway: Yes (paved pathway, compacted gravel)
Mileage: 1.0 mile loop
Tucked away in a seemingly forgotten area of bustling Silicon Valley, the former town of Alviso sits quietly at the southern terminus of San Francisco Bay. Alviso was once a major railroad and shipping port for the South Bay. In fact, its ferries and rails were the gateway to San Francisco for those heading north from Central and Southern California. Today, this sleepy historic district offers great opportunities for wildlife viewing.
The town of Alviso was incorporated into the City of San Jose in 1968, bringing one of its many chapters to a close. In 1973 the former town was added to the National Register of Historic Places, laying the groundwork for wetland restoration projects and its new life as the gateway to the Don Edwards Nat'l Wildlife Refuge. With the restored wetlands, Alviso once again became an important part of local life. Wildlife and migratory birds have been returning to the area in droves, making Alviso a critical stop for birds traveling along the Pacific Flyway.
For great views of the wetlands and the wildlife that calls the area home, drive through the former town and into Alviso Marina County Park. As you enter the park and start heading toward the marshland, you'll notice several yellow doorways on the boardwalks. At the bottom of the accessible ramp, a boardwalk leads to the first of these mysterious doorways. These oddly placed portals frame picturesque views of the bay and the marsh reeds. Once satisfied, continue on the sidewalk heading east.
The sidewalk quickly turns to a compacted gravel pathway, heading north. The pathway offers great views of the marshland with the East Bay Hills and Mission Peak beyond. An accessible observation deck will appear quickly, offering great views of the wetlands. After the observation deck, continue on the compacted gravel pathway and turn left at the trail junction.
Views of the bay quickly open up and, on a clear day, you can see the skyscrapers of San Francisco popping up behind the bay's many bridges. A short while later, another boardwalk will appear on the left. The boardwalk will take you once again through the wetlands and back to the parking area, completing your loop of the park.
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