Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary District

At first thought, the idea of visiting the Las Gallinas Sanitary District in San Rafael, California, might seem like some sort of joke. Yes, there is a sewage treatment plant there. But that's not all. In the mid-1980s the district created a reclamation area with fresh and saltwater marshlands and walking paths. The resulting wildlife sanctuary, especially for birds, makes for an easy nature stroll and a great sanctuary even for humans. There are tremendous views of San Pablo Bay, over to China Camp, and on clear days, practically the entire San Francisco Bay.

Parking and public transportation at Las Gallinas
There isn't much public parking in the Las Gallinas lot, but there is restricted street parking and nearby McInnis Park is a short walk away. If McInnis is full with baseball or softball games there's plenty more street parking outside on the main road. Golden Gate Transit's closest stop is near Highway 101, which adds at least another mile to the expedition.

Best and worst time go to Las Gallinas
Like any hiking area, the weekends are the busiest time for the small parking lot, but since there isn't much action at the treatment plant it's not as bad as it could be. At certain hours McInnis can be quite busy and Las Gallinas all but empty. Obviously weekdays are the best time to go, but it can get crowded in late afternoons or if there's a school group tour. If it's migration season then the bird watchers will be out in force no matter the time, but that's a good thing.

Admission to Las Gallinas
No general admission or parking fees. Open hours from 4pm to 10pm (those serious bird watchers like to set up early). Permits are required for large group events. Dogs are required to be on a leash at all times because while it's okay for the birds to touch the treated water, it's not a good idea for dogs or humans. Hours or access may be restricted depending on what's happening at the treatment plant. Check the signage boards when you arrive.

Must see/do At Las Gallinas
The walking paths among the marshland are the reason to make the trip. Although officially it's two miles around the four ponds, there are smaller inter-connecting paths to extend or contract the walk. Benches and picnic tables along the routes allow for a chance to take some time and watch the birds. The paths are graveled and flat so it's a reasonably easy trek for bird watchers of all ages. There isn't an awful lot of shade so bring a hat and the sunscreen. At the same time, exposed on the Bay marshlands, it can get rather windy. That can make it chilly and hot at the same time, so make sure the zipper on your windbreaker is ready for action.

Other places to visit near Las Gallinas
Nearby McInnis Park has a nine-hole golf course and driving range, skate park, batting cages, tennis courts, a restaurant and plenty of baseball and soccer fields. On the road in there is a deli and a few restaurants as well as a movie theater.

Insider tip for visitors to Las Gallinas
Don't forget the binoculars, but even without binoculars take some time to stop and check out the birds. They enjoy being there just as much as humans do, and bring their families as well to hang out in and around the ponds. It's fun to watch a family of ducks taking the young ones out to feed, paddling across the water, or even sharing the path. And it's always a great moment when a flash of color breezes past with the accompanying sounds of nature.

Author's bio: Alex Drude is a Bay Area native. Someday he will remember to bring binoculars. Follow his sports and travel musings on Twitter @Alex_Drude and on Facebook.