Dominguez Gap Wetlands
A reclaimed urban wetland along the LA River, offering trails for walking, biking, birdwatching, and enjoying nature.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, birds are active
Dominguez Gap Wetlands
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, birds are active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A reclaimed urban wetland along the LA River, offering trails for walking, biking, birdwatching, and enjoying nature.
"A valuable reclaimed natural space in an urban setting, perfect for birdwatching and peaceful walks."
🚶♀️ Go with a Buddy
For safety, especially when alone, consider visiting with a friend. Some users have reported feeling unsafe at times.
🦟 Pack Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, particularly during certain times of the year. Be prepared to protect yourself.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Birdwatcher's Paradise
Throughout the wetlands
Spot diverse bird species like Great Blue Herons, geese, ducks, and even hummingbirds in this reclaimed urban oasis.
Wildflower Blooms
Along the trails
Experience vibrant bursts of color from native wildflowers, especially in springtime, adding beauty to your walk.
Artistic AR Experience
Various points along the trail
Discover augmented reality art installations that blend community creativity with the natural landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Safety First on the Trails
Access and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Go with a Buddy
For safety, especially when alone, consider visiting with a friend. Some users have reported feeling unsafe at times.
🦟 Pack Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, particularly during certain times of the year. Be prepared to protect yourself.
💧 Bring Your Own Water
There are no potable water sources on-site, so remember to pack enough water for your visit.
📸 Great for Photos
This spot is perfect for capturing nature shots and scenic views, especially with wildflowers in bloom.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Go with a Buddy
For safety, especially when alone, consider visiting with a friend. Some users have reported feeling unsafe at times.
🦟 Pack Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, particularly during certain times of the year. Be prepared to protect yourself.
💧 Bring Your Own Water
There are no potable water sources on-site, so remember to pack enough water for your visit.
📸 Great for Photos
This spot is perfect for capturing nature shots and scenic views, especially with wildflowers in bloom.
🚲 Bike or Walk
Enjoy the trails for a leisurely walk, a brisk hike, or a bike ride along the LA River path.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate Dominguez Gap Wetlands as a valuable reclaimed natural space in an urban setting, perfect for birdwatching and peaceful walks. While many enjoy the wildlife and blooming flora, some caution is advised regarding personal safety and the presence of mosquitoes.
"I remember going on a high school field trip with my biology class at Jordan High School in 2009 to clean nearby parts of the LA River when this project was just completed. In only A few hrs we picked up truckloads of trash.
Nearly 15 years later I find myself much older and much more grateful to have access to a space like this in an urban city like Long Beach. I found myself enjoying bird watching and attempting to identify the different floras. I am thankful for my science teacher, as now as an adult I can see his passion for science and the environment and his attempts to pass it on to the youth. You can't help but walk here and feel relaxed and be reminded of our connectedness to earth and the need to be conscious of our imprint on the world.
I've taken my daughter for walks here. I guess I'm getting old but this place is beautiful at any age 💗🌞🙏🏾🦢🦆
On my walk I spotted a Grreat Blue Harron and Canadian Geese as well as many other birds :)"
Roberto “Nightcrawler” Salazar
"This is a great reclaimed wetland off the LA River bike trail. It's a serene bird-watcher's paradise, with a very easy walking trail.
The trail is wide enough for bicyclists on the west end, but the east side should be reserved for pedestrians. There are also horseback riders passing through on their way to a separate trail. There is some bike parking as well, and shaded picnic bench. However, there is no potable water around, so be sure to pack your own water bottle.
In terms of nature, there are geese, mallards, coots, a variety of birds (I spotted a gold finch, a heron, Northern mockingbird, a pair of terns, and some kind of canary, and heard an owl), lizards and squirrels. I haven't seen any turtles yet but it seems like the right habitat.
On the walk you will spot a ton of reeds, California buckwheat, wild lavender, and wild tobacco.
Insect repellent and sunscreen are suggested on sunny days."
SJ Carter
"This place is located right behind my house. It is an excellent walking trail and also an access point to get onto the bike trail that runs along the LA River. You can enjoy some very interesting wildlife here. I have seen some beautiful and unusual birds. The ducks are aleveryday resident of this pond. Maybe three times I have run into snakes but totally harmless and minding their own business. So if you bring your children they do get to see ducks and during spring a lot of ducklings. I take my dog here everyday."
Sadiq Mehdi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can access the Dominguez Gap Wetlands via public transportation, with the Metrorail A line Del Amo station being a convenient option. It's also accessible from C. David Molina Park on Oregon Ave.
Street parking is available, and it's recommended to park at the park off Del Amo for easier access.
Yes, the wetlands are adjacent to the LA River bike trail, making it a great destination for cyclists.
Horseback riders do pass through the area on their way to a separate trail.
The park off Del Amo is a good starting point. Some visitors also access it from C. David Molina Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the Dominguez Gap Wetlands is free for all visitors.
The wetlands are generally open from dawn to dusk, offering ample time for exploration. Specific hours are not strictly enforced.
No advance booking is required as it's a public natural space.
While generally open, it's always good practice to be mindful of any posted signage or local regulations.
Visiting on a holiday might mean more people, but the natural beauty remains. Consider weekdays for a quieter experience.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can spot a variety of birds like Great Blue Herons, geese, ducks, and hummingbirds. Lizards, squirrels, and even harmless snakes have been observed.
Yes, there are easy walking trails perfect for a casual hike or a more vigorous walk. Some consider it more of a stroll than a strenuous hike.
Absolutely! The wetlands offer beautiful scenery, wildflowers, and wildlife, making it a great location for nature photography.
Restrooms are available at the wetlands, making it convenient for longer visits.
Yes, the wetlands are dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry companion along for the walk.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, ideal for capturing the natural beauty. Springtime is particularly vibrant with wildflowers. 
Keep an eye out for diverse bird species, which are abundant and offer great photo opportunities.
The trails offer various vantage points. Exploring different sections of the wetlands will reveal unique photographic subjects.
While some aerial footage exists,
A telephoto lens for wildlife, a wide-angle lens for landscapes, and plenty of battery power are recommended.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as amenities are limited. Consider bringing insect repellent, especially during warmer months. While generally safe, it's always wise to keep a close eye on children and stick to the main trails.
🚶♀️ Solo Explorers & Hikers
However, solo visitors are strongly advised to be aware of their surroundings and consider going with a companion, as some users have reported feeling unsafe at times. It's also a good idea to inform someone of your plans and expected return time.
📸 Nature Photographers
+1Bring a variety of lenses to capture both close-ups of wildlife and wider scenic views. The augmented reality art installations also provide interesting elements for creative photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Reclaimed Urban Oasis
The wetlands serve multiple purposes, acting as a crucial stopover for migratory birds and a sanctuary for local wildlife. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, nature walks, and even horseback riding, all within a relatively accessible urban setting. The presence of native plants like California buckwheat and wild lavender contributes to the ecosystem's health and provides a beautiful backdrop for visitors.
Efforts to protect and restore these wetlands are ongoing, with community involvement playing a key role. Volunteer events, often coinciding with Earth Day, bring people together to contribute to the preservation of this valuable natural resource. This collaborative spirit highlights the community's commitment to maintaining this urban sanctuary for future generations.
+1Navigating the Trails and Safety
While the wetlands provide a peaceful escape, visitors are advised to exercise caution, particularly when exploring alone. Some Reddit users have shared experiences that suggest being aware of your surroundings is crucial. It's recommended to go with a companion, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area, to ensure a safer and more enjoyable visit.
Beyond personal safety, be prepared for the natural elements. Mosquitoes can be prevalent, so bringing insect repellent is a good idea. Additionally, there are no potable water sources available on-site, so remember to pack plenty of water for your outing.
Wildlife and Botanical Wonders
During springtime, the wetlands come alive with blooming wildflowers, adding a splash of color to the landscape. You can expect to see native plants such as California buckwheat, wild lavender, and wild tobacco. These botanical elements contribute significantly to the ecosystem and enhance the visual appeal of the wetlands.
While less common, some visitors have reported encountering harmless snakes. The habitat is also suitable for turtles, though sightings may be infrequent. The presence of diverse wildlife and plant life makes Dominguez Gap Wetlands a fascinating place to connect with nature.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit