Wetland Wander-Fall

Hike Chino Creek Wetlands

10.30.2024
Woman kneeling by the creek at Chino Creek Wetlands

Chino Creek Wetlands is proof you don’t always have to go far to find an escape in nature. Located in the heart of Chino in part of the Santa Ana River watershed, the Chino Creek Wetlands has 1.7 miles of trails, but really this is a place to explore without a lot of fuss.

The mostly flat trails weave through 22 acres of wetland habitats, offering lots of nooks and crannies to check out. The way the different sections of trail intersect would make it difficult to hit 1.7 miles exactly while still seeing everything the park has to offer, so take your time as you explore the wetlands labyrinth.

Rather than being focused on the miles, just let yourself wander (don’t worry—there are maps posted all over). Frequent benches line the trail where you can sit, relax, and enjoy your favorite seasonal beverage while you overlook the peaceful wetlands all around.

Keep your eyes open for birds such as snowy egrets, blue herons, and different species of ducks. The wetlands are in an unexpected place—right in the middle of a city. But even with buildings all around, the park still has a feeling of being away from it all. An observation tower in the center offers panoramic views of the wetlands. Placards on top of the tower help teach visitors about what they might see in the wetlands: plants, reptiles, birds...

Despite its close proximity to suburbia, the Chino Creek Wetlands are usually lightly visited so it isn’t hard to find some peace and solitude.

PSL BONUS: Platform 909 in Chino Hills offers seasonal beverages such as a pumpkin spice latte, pumpkin chai latte, caramel green apple slush, and a tiramisu latte. Platform 909 is located at 15870 Soquel Canyon Pkwy., Chino Hills. It is open Monday to Saturday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Chino Creek Wetlands is open 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. October to March, and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. April to September. Park may close after periods of heavy rain. Free parking. Park is located at 15975 El Prado Rd., Chino. Dogs allowed but must remain on a leash.

Story and photos by Natalie Bates, @wanderwithnatalie

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Gentle Giants

    Some people visit national parks to marvel at the iconic sights, while others come seeking solitude in nature. With visitation on the rise, it can be hard to find both. But in Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, this pair of trails offers both....

    View

  2. A Hike to the Past

    This 5.2-mile redwoods hike through El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space combines a relaxing stroll with unique geologic formations and historical artifacts.

    View

  3. Golden Mile

    Dubbed the Golden Mile, this car-free stretch of road in Golden Gate Park features rotating art installations of murals, sculptures, and abundant bright yellow Adirondack chairs for kicking back to relax. See Naga, the recent new addition here, an impressive sea serpent art installation at Golden Gate Park's Rainbow

    View

  4. Devilishly Hairy

    Mount Diablo is a devilish name but it’s home to some hairy spiders that don’t need to send a chill down your spine. Tarantulas come out and about in fall, as the males leave their burrows in search of mates. One of the best places to see them is on the northern slopes of Mount Diablo.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Montebello Mission

    Adorable animal feeding, peaceful bird watching, and delicious beer drinking? Hello, Montebello! This northeastern city has fantastic views of the hulking San Gabriels and a variety of green spaces, not to mention great spots for beer(s)!

    View

  2. Welcome to the Ice Age

    Only in LA can you stumble upon a lake of bubbling black goo right in the middle of the city—complete with a life-size family of mammoths frozen in time. Take a whiff and you’ll catch the unmistakable scent of asphalt: Yep, you’ve made it to the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum.

    View

  3. Griffith's Golden

    With over 4,200 acres and hundreds of trails, Griffith Park is the gold standard. Opt for the lesser-hiked northwestern end of the park and visit the 2.25-mile Skyline and Oak Canyon loop from Travel Town.

    View

  4. Mulholland's Most Majestic

    Take a leisurely drive along Mulholland Drive to discover beautiful urban scenery and unexpected wild beauty, right in the middle of the city. 

    View