Highlight • River
Road cycling
4.5
(19)
Seal Slough, also known as Marina Lagoon, is a distinctive narrow, winding tidal channel located within the vibrant communities of San Mateo and Foster City, California. This unique waterway serves as a crucial link to San Francisco Bay, flowing through a productive brackish wetland. Situated at an elevation of approximately -29 meters, it offers a fascinating glimpse into a dynamic coastal ecosystem, often described as being somewhere between a river and a lake due to its calm waters and minimal…
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September 26, 2024
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Seal Slough
5.0
(2)
177
riders
58.4km
03:03
1,030m
1,030m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
54
riders
76.7km
03:24
620m
620m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
31
riders
52.5km
02:21
350m
350m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Elevation -30 m
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Wednesday 11 March
24°C
8°C
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Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 24.0 km/h
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The primary trail along Seal Slough is the paved Foster City Levee Pedway, which offers an easy and scenic route. While the pedway itself is linear, it connects to various pathways within Foster City's park system, allowing for longer, often circular, walks by combining different sections. Hikers and cyclists can explore the developments along the slough's banks.
Absolutely. The terrain along Seal Slough, particularly the Foster City Levee Pedway, is generally flat and paved, making it ideal for beginner hikers, leisurely strolls, and families. There is little to no elevation change, ensuring an accessible experience for most visitors.
Seal Slough itself is known for its easy, flat, and paved trails, which are not typically considered challenging. For those seeking more strenuous options, you would need to venture to nearby regional parks or open spaces in the wider San Francisco Bay Area, as the immediate vicinity of Seal Slough focuses on accessible, leisurely activities.
Parking is generally available in designated areas within Foster City, often near parks or public access points along the slough. While specific lots can vary, visitors usually find spots without much difficulty, especially on weekdays. Public transport can also be an option, with local bus routes serving parts of Foster City, though direct access points may require a short walk.
Yes, Seal Slough is very family-friendly, offering safe and easy paved paths suitable for strollers and young children. Many of the trails are also dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pets to enjoy the outdoors. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them to maintain the natural environment.
Seal Slough is a productive brackish wetland, home to diverse birdlife, including the endangered California clapper rail, which finds refuge in the cordgrass marshes. You might also spot various waterfowl and other marsh birds. The best time for wildlife spotting is often during the quieter morning or late afternoon hours, especially during migratory seasons.
As Seal Slough meanders through San Mateo and Foster City, there are numerous amenities nearby. You'll find a variety of cafes, restaurants, and pubs within a short drive or walk in the surrounding urban areas. Accommodation options, including hotels, are also readily available in both San Mateo and Foster City, catering to different budgets.
Wild swimming is generally not recommended or permitted in Seal Slough. The slough is a tidal channel that has historically been subject to various environmental factors, including past sewage discharge and ongoing wetland restoration efforts. Its primary purpose is ecological habitat and recreational walking/cycling along its banks, not swimming.
Seal Slough is a narrow winding tidal channel, meaning its water levels and flow are influenced by the tides of San Francisco Bay. A tide gate near its mouth regulates tidal influx, which is crucial for flushing the Marina Lagoon and preventing midge population explosions. Visitors can expect calm waters with little to no current, resembling a lake more than a river.
Beyond the scenic Foster City Levee Pedway, key natural features include the extensive cordgrass marshes, which are vital habitats for species like the endangered California clapper rail. The tide gate near the mouth of the slough, regulating its connection to San Francisco Bay, is also a significant functional landmark. The blend of urban development with preserved wetland offers unique viewpoints.