South Slough
National Estuarine Research Reserve
The trail from South Slough’s interpretive center leads to a boardwalk through upland marsh to a saltwater estuary.
South Slough
National Estuarine Research Reserve
The trail from South Slough’s interpretive center leads to a boardwalk through upland marsh to a saltwater estuary.
South Slough, the first National Estuarine Research Reserve, is managed for research, education, and stewardship. The estuary, an arm of Coos Bay, provides rich habitat for shellfish, ghost shrimp, adult and juvenile fish, and a wide variety of water birds.
Nestled in a geologic fold, the South Slough of Coos Bay is a quiet arm of the largest estuary in Oregon. Estuaries, where rivers meet the sea, are changeable and challenging environments, with salinity changing with daily tides and yearly seasons. Nevertheless, these sun-lit, nutrient-rich waters are among the most vibrant environments on earth.
What's special about South Slough? The estuary and watershed of South Slough Reserve is designated to protect fertile resources and to give researchers, students, and other explorers ample opportunity to learn more about the rich waterways and luxuriant marshes, as well as about the lush forests of the Slough’s watershed.
Hike easy-going trails or paddle quiet waterways to explore the woods, wetlands, and waters; investigate the various communities, from subtle to dramatic. Trails weave throughout the watershed and to the estuaries edge, with many trails handicap accessible. The many arms of the Slough allow for explorations by water with canoes or kayaks. The interpretive center offers exhibits, programs, workshops and guided activities, a bookstore, and staff to answer your questions; the center is open year-round, Monday-Saturday. Be sure to include binoculars and a wildlife guidebook on your trip.
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