Each winter millions of birds travel the Pacific Flyway, a major north-south migration route. Cosumnes River Preserve, just north of Lodi in the Central Valley, is a wetlands haven for over 200 species of these travelers, including the marquee draw: 70 percent of the greater sandhill crane population. The big, long-legged sandhill is a darling of the bird-watching world, with an elegant gray body, bright red forehead, and sleek black bill. Your best bet for sandhill viewing is to follow the 1-mile paved/boardwalk loop called the Lost Slough Wetlands Walk to the west side of the preserve. If you don't want to leave the car, stop by the visitor center for a driving-tour brochure of the area, which will show the best spots for crane-viewing by car. Be sure to check out the corner of Desmond and Bruceville Roads; a couple of weeks ago, it was the equivalent of a crane cocktail party.

BONUS: Combine your trip with a visit to Jessie's Grove Winery, part of the Lodi Wine Trail. Located on a huge oak grove, Jessie's grows its own grapes, produces its own wine, and exemplifies Lodi's sophisticated but down-home approach to winemaking. The tasting is complimentary and the Zins (some from 100-year-old vines) are delicious.

To reach Cosumnes River Preserve, exit Twin Cities Rd. off of I-5, just north of Lodi. Head east, then turn right onto Franklin Blvd. Follow Franklin for 1.5 miles to the visitor center. For more information visit cosumnes.org or call 916-684-2816.

Jessie's Grove Winery, 1973 W. Turner Rd., Lodi; 209-368-0880. The winery is 15 miles south of the Cosumnes River Preserve. From I-5 in Lodi, exit Turner Rd.; follow W. Turner Rd. west for 3 miles.