Baylands Bird & Art Loop

Combine an outdoor art walk and wildlife sightings at the Baylands Nature Preserve in Palo Alto. This 5-mile loop through Byxbee Park and the Emily Renzel Wetlands features striking installations by artists Peter Richards and Michael Oppenheimer—where the landscape itself becomes part of the canvas.

From the Byxbee Park parking lot, head northeast on the Adobe Creek Loop Trail. On your right is the first installation: the Pole Field. This sweeping pattern of wooden poles doubles as an avian hangout, giving local birds a place to perch while inviting nature to become part of the artwork.

Turn right to continue along the Adobe Creek Loop Trail as it winds beside Mayfield Slough. Early risers are rewarded with glowing sunrise views over the water, and wooden viewing platforms offer prime spots for close encounters with coots, ducks, and egrets. Keep an eye out for the Wind Wave installation on your right—a line of ropes that ripple and sway with the breeze.

At the end of the trail, bear left to follow Matadero Creek toward East Bayshore Road. Massive carp are a common sight in the creek, and lucky hikers have even spotted leopard sharks cruising the shallows. Turn right onto the paved bike trail, then right again to enter the Emily Renzel Wetlands.

This pond is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with waterbirds of every stripe gathering around the elevated birdhouse in the middle of the water. A clockwise loop lets photographers capture herons, pelicans, and cormorants from nearly every angle. Fragrant eucalyptus lines the route, alongside bursts of bright fuchsia blooms.

After completing the loop, return to the bike trail and head back toward Byxbee Park. At the first intersection, keep left, then bear right to climb the hill. Trails crisscross the summit, where art installations hide in quiet nooks—including cement chevrons and a stone compass rose. Wander and explore, then head north to reconnect with the Adobe Creek Loop Trail. Turn left to return to the parking lot.

Byxbee Park is located at 2375 Embarcadero Road in Palo Alto. Map. Dogs are welcome in Byxbee Park, but not in the Emily Renzel Wetlands.

Story and photos by Heather Werner, @heath.er.wer.ner