Pacheco Marsh

Client: John Muir Land Trust

Location: Martinez, California

Year Completed: 2025

Pacheco Marsh gives the communities of the East Bay something rare: direct, immersive access to a living tidal wetland on the edge of Suisun Bay. RDG's public access design compliments ESA’s design of the marsh restoration. The public now enjoys 2.5 miles of trails, including ADA-compliant pathways that bring visitors into close contact with the marsh at grade. Aluminum pedestrian bridges span active tidal channels, placing visitors directly above the serpentine waterways where birds feed and water moves with the tide. Three elevated vista points rise above the marsh floor, offering panoramic views across the wetland to Suisun Bay and Mount Diablo beyond — a striking juxtaposition with the oil refineries and bridge spans visible on the horizon. RDG's interpretive panels woven throughout the trail network tell the story of the marsh's natural and human history. An outdoor classroom serves school groups exploring watershed ecology in the field. A kayak launch opens access to a 2-mile water loop through the restored marsh channels and into Suisun Bay itself.

Learn more about our Landscape Architecture services →

sinage at Pacheo Marsh with shade structure in the background
large metal foot bridge that crosses marsh with person in the foreground
wide angle view of the stream at Pacheo Marsh
cloudy day at Pacheo Marsh with shade structure and pathways
path to the dock on the stream at Pacheo Marsh
wooden bench and wayfinding signage at Pacheo Marsh
Previous
Previous

Refugio Creek and Tidal Marsh