The East Yuma Wetlands is one of five parks in the Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area. It’s a great place to go hiking and Geocaching. Make sure you bring water and a protein snack, as many of the trails are not shaded.
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Plenty Of Free Parking
When I decided to investigate the Yuma East Wetlands we found the entrance by taking Interstate 8 west from Sundance RV Resort, the campground we were staying at, to Exit 1. At the traffic circle we took the second exit to E. 8th Street then made a right onto Prison Hill Rd and another right onto S. Levee Rd. This leads you down into a dirt area where there is parking and restrooms. It actually is a shared parking lot with the Yuma Territorial Prison.
If We Only Knew
At the time we didn’t realize that we could have also parked at Gateway Park and enter the wetlands from there. From where we parked near the prison you can walk the multi-use walkway, which is paved or take the dirt trail that will take you along the Colorado River back to Gateway Park or on the three-mile loop that circles around the marsh areas.
Lessons Of Wildlife
We entered and followed the hiking trails which followed along the Colorado River. We came upon some signage titled “Lessons of Wildlife” sharing information about wildlife in the area, including fish in the waters.
Colorado River
The trail we took along the Colorado River was beautiful and well maintained. The trail is wide with cottonwoods, willows and mesquite trees on the trail. While walking we came upon a sign for the “Herb Guenther Scenic Overlook.” Walking up to the overlook affords beautiful views of the river and the foothills.
Returning to the trail you can walk a bit further but it eventually moves away from the river and makes its way through marsh areas. This is where you can get yourself in trouble. Ask me how I know. The trails are not clearly marked and there are many ways you can go. This would be a good time to mention to make sure you have plenty of water and snacks. Some of the trail is not tree lined and the Arizona sun can get hot.
Pin Your Starting Point
We use a setting on our phone that pins the location of our vehicle and use the app “Map My Walk” so even if we get lost in the trails (which can sometimes lead to awesome adventures) we can always find our way back. Along the way, you can see abundant wildlife, water canals, many types of vegetation and of course a Geocache or two. There is an area that circles back around near the multi-use trail and features a swamp area. This section of trails are loose sand.
Final Thoughts
We enjoy walking and geocaching both of which we did at this location. There is a bathroom facility in the parking lot. There are some benches scattered throughout the trails. Some of the terrain on the trails can make it difficult for people with mobility issues. If you have these issues, you can still enjoy a nice walk on the paved trail. Also, as I mentioned earlier, bring plenty of water, snacks, bug spray, and maybe a walking stick to make your walk more enjoyable.
Quick Notes
Location: Yuma
Google Maps Link: Click Here
Fee: N/A
Pet-Friendly: Yes. Dogs and horses are allowed on the trails.
Check out my short video of these trails:
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