How to Hike Marine Stadium Trail

The Marine Stadium Trail is a hidden gem nestled along the southern California coastline, offering hikers a unique blend of coastal ecology, urban history, and panoramic ocean views. Though often overshadowed by more famous trails like the Pacific Crest Trail or the Malibu Coast Path, the Marine Stadium Trail delivers an intimate, low-traffic experience that appeals to nature lovers, history buffs, and fitness enthusiasts alike. Located near the historic Long Beach Marine Stadium — a site of Olympic rowing events in 1932 — this trail weaves through tidal marshes, coastal scrub, and elevated bluffs with unobstructed vistas of the Pacific. Unlike crowded urban parks, the Marine Stadium Trail provides solitude, educational value, and a tangible connection to Southern California’s environmental and athletic heritage. Whether you’re a local seeking a weekend escape or a visitor looking to explore beyond the beaches, understanding how to hike this trail properly ensures safety, enjoyment, and environmental stewardship.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of the Marine Stadium Trail experience — from planning your route to respecting local ecosystems. With detailed advice on trail conditions, gear selection, timing, and ethical hiking practices, this tutorial is designed to help you navigate the trail confidently and responsibly. By the end, you’ll not only know how to hike the trail, but why it matters — and how your visit contributes to its preservation.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research the Trail Before You Go

Before stepping onto the trail, invest time in understanding its layout, rules, and seasonal variations. The Marine Stadium Trail is not a single continuous path but a network of interconnected trails around the Long Beach Marine Stadium and the adjacent wetlands. The primary loop spans approximately 3.2 miles, with optional spurs extending to 4.5 miles if you include the Salt Creek and Lagoon Trail connectors. Use official sources such as the City of Long Beach Parks and Recreation website or the California Coastal Commission’s trail maps to verify current conditions. Avoid relying solely on crowd-sourced apps like AllTrails without cross-referencing, as trail closures due to wildlife protection or erosion repairs are common and often not updated in real time.

Check the weather forecast for the day of your hike. Coastal fog, especially in late spring and early summer, can reduce visibility and make the trail slippery. High winds may also affect exposed sections near the bluff edges. Avoid hiking during or immediately after heavy rainfall — the sandy soil becomes unstable and erosion-prone, increasing the risk of slips or trail degradation.

2. Choose the Right Entry Point

The trail has three primary access points, each offering a different experience:

• Marine Stadium Parking Lot (Main Entrance): Located at 2800 E. 12th Street, Long Beach, CA. This is the most popular and accessible entry, with restrooms, parking, and informational kiosks. Ideal for first-time hikers.
• Salt Creek Trailhead (Northwest Access): Accessed via Ocean Boulevard near the intersection with 12th Street. This route offers a quieter, more naturalistic approach through riparian vegetation and is preferred by birdwatchers.
• Lagoon Trailhead (Southeast Access): Near the intersection of Shoreline Drive and 12th Street. This entrance connects directly to the historic rowing basin and is best for those interested in the Olympic history of the site.

For beginners, start at the Marine Stadium Parking Lot. The trail begins with a paved, ADA-accessible boardwalk that gently slopes through marshland, allowing you to acclimate to the environment before transitioning to natural dirt paths. This section is ideal for families and those with mobility considerations.

3. Prepare Your Gear Appropriately

Despite its modest length, the Marine Stadium Trail demands thoughtful preparation. Unlike urban sidewalks, this trail has uneven terrain, shifting sands, and limited shade. Essential gear includes:

• Sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes: The trail surface varies from compacted sand to loose gravel and muddy patches after rain. Avoid running shoes or sandals — they offer inadequate grip and protection.
• Hydration system: Carry at least 1 liter of water per person. There are no water fountains along the trail. A reusable bottle with a carabiner clip makes it easy to attach to a backpack.
• Sun protection: UV exposure is high due to reflection off the water and lack of tree cover. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, UV-blocking sunglasses, and broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. Reapply every two hours.
• Lightweight, breathable clothing: Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics. Long sleeves and pants can protect against poison oak (which grows along the trail’s edges) and insect bites.
• Small daypack: Carry a 10–15L pack with compartments for water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a lightweight emergency blanket.
• Trail map and compass (or offline GPS): Cell service is inconsistent along the trail. Download the official map via the City of Long Beach app or print a copy. A physical map ensures you won’t get disoriented if your device dies.

Optional but recommended: binoculars for birdwatching, a field guide to local flora, and a small notebook to record observations. Many hikers find the ecological richness of the trail enhances the experience when documented.

4. Begin Your Hike: The Main Loop

Starting at the Marine Stadium Parking Lot, follow the clearly marked blue trail markers. The first 0.5 miles are paved and flat, passing interpretive signs that detail the history of the 1932 Olympic rowing course. These signs explain how the stadium was constructed using federal WPA funds during the Great Depression — a rare example of Depression-era public works still in active use today.

At the 0.5-mile mark, the trail transitions to a packed-earth path. Here, you’ll enter the tidal marsh zone. Watch for signs of wildlife: great blue herons, snowy egrets, and occasionally, the elusive California clapper rail. Do not approach or feed animals. The marsh is a protected habitat, and human interference disrupts breeding cycles.

Continue for another 0.7 miles until you reach the first overlook platform. This is a prime photo spot — the entire Marine Stadium basin stretches below you, flanked by the city skyline. Pause here to rest, hydrate, and observe the water’s movement. Tides affect the trail’s accessibility; check a local tide chart before your hike. High tide may flood low-lying sections, so plan your timing accordingly.

From the overlook, the trail curves right along the bluff edge. This section, known as the “Bluff Ridge Path,” has loose soil and steep drop-offs. Stay on the marked trail — stepping off can cause erosion and expose you to unstable ground. The path winds through coastal sage scrub, where you’ll encounter native plants like California sagebrush, deerweed, and yucca. Take note of their adaptations to salt spray and drought — these are key indicators of a healthy coastal ecosystem.

At 1.8 miles, the trail intersects with the Salt Creek connector. If you’re doing the full 4.5-mile loop, turn left here. Otherwise, continue straight along the main loop. The next 0.6 miles follow a gentle downhill to the Lagoon Trailhead, where you’ll pass the historic rowing docks. These wooden piers, restored in 2018, are remnants of the original 1932 Olympic infrastructure.

At 2.5 miles, you’ll reach the southern loop junction. Turn left to begin your return. This section is shaded by mature eucalyptus and pepper trees, offering relief from the sun. The return path parallels the original trail but offers new perspectives — particularly of the wetland’s edge, where tide pools form during low tide. These pools are home to hermit crabs, anemones, and small fish. Observe from a distance; never remove creatures or disturb the rocks.

5. Complete the Loop and Exit Safely

The final 0.7 miles return you to the Marine Stadium Parking Lot. As you approach the end, notice the signage about invasive species — particularly ice plant and yellow starthistle — which threaten native flora. Volunteers regularly remove these plants, and you can support their efforts by staying on the trail and not carrying seeds in your gear.

Before leaving, take a moment to clean your footwear. Use the brush station provided near the exit to remove dirt and seeds. This simple act prevents the spread of invasive plant species to other natural areas.

Dispose of all trash in designated bins. Even biodegradable items like fruit peels can attract wildlife and disrupt natural foraging behaviors. Leave no trace — this is not just a rule, it’s a responsibility.

Best Practices

1. Hike During Off-Peak Hours

The Marine Stadium Trail is most tranquil during weekday mornings, especially between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM. Weekends, particularly in spring and fall, see increased foot traffic from families and photographers. If you prefer solitude, avoid weekends and holidays. Early morning hikes also offer the best light for photography and the highest chance of spotting nocturnal animals like kit foxes or raccoons returning to their dens.

2. Respect Wildlife and Habitats

The tidal marshes and coastal bluffs surrounding the trail are home to several protected species, including the endangered California least tern and the Western snowy plover. These birds nest on the ground and are highly sensitive to human disturbance. Always keep a minimum distance of 100 feet from nesting areas — indicated by yellow signage and fencing. Never use drones, loud music, or flash photography near wildlife.

Even small actions matter. Avoid stepping on dune grasses — their root systems stabilize the sand and prevent erosion. If you see trash, pick it up and carry it out. Plastic ingestion is a leading cause of death for seabirds and marine mammals in this region.

3. Follow Leave No Trace Principles

Adopt the seven Leave No Trace principles as your hiking code:

1. Plan ahead and prepare — Know the rules, weather, and terrain.
2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces — Stick to marked trails.
3. Dispose of waste properly — Pack out everything you bring in.
4. Leave what you find — Do not pick flowers, collect shells, or carve into trees.
5. Minimize campfire impact — Fires are prohibited on the trail.
6. Respect wildlife — Observe from afar; never feed animals.
7. Be considerate of other visitors — Keep noise low and yield to others on narrow paths.

These aren’t suggestions — they’re ethical obligations. The trail’s beauty is preserved because hikers choose to protect it.

4. Know Your Limits

The Marine Stadium Trail is rated as easy to moderate, but “easy” doesn’t mean risk-free. The trail’s flat sections are deceptive — the soft sand and uneven footing can fatigue legs faster than expected. If you’re new to hiking, start with the 1.5-mile out-and-back to the overlook and return. Build endurance before attempting the full loop.

Children and elderly hikers should be accompanied by a partner. The trail has no guardrails along the bluff sections, and sudden gusts can be startling. Always carry a whistle or personal alarm in case of separation or injury.

5. Time Your Visit with the Tides

Tidal conditions dramatically affect your experience. The best time to hike is during low tide, when tide pools are exposed and the marsh is more accessible. Consult a local tide table — available via the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) website or the Long Beach Harbor Master’s app. Aim to arrive 1–2 hours before low tide to maximize exploration time.

During high tide, certain boardwalk sections may be partially submerged. Do not attempt to wade through — the water can be deeper than it appears, and submerged debris pose tripping hazards. If the trail is flooded, turn back and return another day.

6. Dress for the Microclimate

The trail sits in a coastal microclimate where temperatures can vary by 20°F within an hour. Mornings are often foggy and cool (55–65°F), while afternoons can be sunny and warm (70–85°F). Layer your clothing: start with a moisture-wicking base, add a light fleece or windbreaker, and carry a waterproof shell in your pack. Even on sunny days, a breeze off the ocean can make you chilly.

Tools and Resources

1. Official Trail Maps

The City of Long Beach Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine provides free downloadable trail maps in PDF and interactive digital formats. Visit www.longbeach.gov/parks and search “Marine Stadium Trail Map.” The interactive map includes elevation profiles, access points, and real-time alerts for trail closures.

2. Mobile Applications

While cell service is unreliable, offline-capable apps are invaluable:

• AllTrails: Download the “Marine Stadium Loop” trail as an offline map. User reviews often include recent condition reports.
• Gaia GPS: Offers topographic layers and tide overlays. Essential for advanced hikers.
• iNaturalist: Use this app to photograph and identify plants and animals. Your submissions contribute to citizen science databases used by biologists.

3. Tide and Weather Tools

For accurate tide predictions:

• NOAA Tides & Currents: https://tidesandcurrents.noaa.gov — Select “Long Beach Harbor” for precise data.
• Windy.com: Provides hyperlocal wind, fog, and temperature forecasts with 1-hour updates.

4. Educational Resources

Deepen your understanding of the trail’s ecology and history:

• “The Marine Stadium: A History of Olympic Rowing in Long Beach” — Available at the Long Beach Museum of Art’s gift shop or as a free PDF via the Long Beach Historical Society.
• California Native Plant Society — Offers free field guides to coastal scrub plants. Download their “Southern California Coastal Plants” booklet at www.cnps.org.
• Audubon Society’s Coastal Bird Guide — Identifies 30+ species commonly seen on the trail. Available as a printable PDF or app.

5. Volunteer and Conservation Opportunities

Want to give back? Join a trail stewardship program:

• Friends of the Marine Stadium — Hosts monthly volunteer days for invasive species removal and trail maintenance. Sign up at www.friendsofmarinestadium.org.
• Coastal Cleanup Day — Held annually in September; participants help remove debris from the trail and adjacent beaches.
• Wildlife Monitoring Program — Train as a citizen scientist to record bird and mammal sightings. Data supports conservation policy.

Real Examples

Example 1: Sarah, a First-Time Hiker from San Diego

Sarah, a 28-year-old graphic designer, visited Long Beach for the weekend and decided to hike the Marine Stadium Trail after seeing photos online. She arrived at 8:00 AM on a Saturday, wearing sneakers and carrying only a phone. Within 15 minutes, her feet began to ache from the soft sand, and she missed the first interpretive sign because she was scrolling through Instagram. She didn’t realize the trail was part of a protected wetland until she stepped off the path to take a closer photo of a heron — and startled it into flight.

After returning home, Sarah researched the trail properly. Two weeks later, she returned with proper footwear, a water bottle, a printed map, and a field guide. She hiked at 6:30 AM on a weekday, saw five different bird species, and even spotted a juvenile harbor seal resting on a nearby buoy. “I didn’t just hike — I learned,” she wrote in her blog. “The trail taught me to slow down and pay attention.”

Example 2: The Garcia Family — Intergenerational Hiking

The Garcias, a family of four from Long Beach, make the Marine Stadium Trail a monthly tradition. Their 72-year-old grandmother, Rosa, uses a walking cane and hikes the paved section to the overlook. Their 10-year-old son, Mateo, carries a nature journal and sketches the plants they see. “We don’t rush,” Rosa says. “We stop when the wind smells like salt. We listen for the herons. We let the trail teach us.”

Each month, they pick a different trail segment. Last spring, they focused on the salt marsh, identifying cordgrass and pickleweed. In summer, they tracked the migration of monarch butterflies that rest in the eucalyptus groves. Their consistency has made them unofficial ambassadors for the trail — often seen helping other visitors with directions or picking up litter.

Example 3: The Birdwatcher’s Journey

David, a retired ornithologist from Pasadena, hikes the trail every Tuesday. He keeps a detailed log of bird sightings since 2015. In 2021, he documented the first recorded nesting of a California least tern on the trail’s eastern dune — a milestone that prompted the city to install additional signage and fencing. His data was later used in a state-funded habitat restoration grant application.

David doesn’t use a camera. He carries a notebook, pencil, and a small handheld compass. “The trail doesn’t need more photos,” he says. “It needs more observers who care enough to remember.”

FAQs

Is the Marine Stadium Trail dog-friendly?

Dogs are permitted on the trail but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. They are not allowed on the boardwalk sections of the tidal marsh to protect nesting birds. Owners must carry waste bags and clean up after their pets immediately. Some sections of the trail are too narrow for multiple dogs, so consider timing your visit to avoid peak hours if you’re bringing a large or energetic dog.

Can I bike on the Marine Stadium Trail?

Mountain bikes are not permitted on the trail. The path is designated for foot traffic only to protect fragile vegetation and prevent soil compaction. Bicycles are allowed on adjacent paved roads, such as Shoreline Drive, but not on the trail itself.

Are restrooms available on the trail?

Public restrooms are available at the Marine Stadium Parking Lot and near the Lagoon Trailhead. There are no facilities along the trail itself. Plan accordingly — use the restroom before you begin your hike.

Is the trail suitable for children?

Yes, the trail is family-friendly, especially the paved section. Children under 12 should be supervised at all times, particularly near the bluff edges and tide pools. Bring snacks, water, and a small first-aid kit. The interpretive signs are written for all ages and make excellent educational tools.

What should I do if I see an injured animal?

Do not attempt to handle or move the animal. Note its location and contact the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s 24-hour hotline at (888) 334-2258. They will dispatch trained responders. In the meantime, keep a safe distance and discourage others from approaching.

Is photography allowed?

Yes, photography is encouraged — but not at the expense of wildlife or habitat. Avoid using flash near birds or in sensitive areas. Drones are strictly prohibited without a permit from the City of Long Beach. Commercial photography requires a separate permit; contact the Parks Department for details.

How long does it take to complete the trail?

Most hikers complete the 3.2-mile loop in 1.5 to 2 hours at a moderate pace. Allow 2.5 to 3 hours if you plan to stop frequently for photography, birdwatching, or reading interpretive signs. The full 4.5-mile loop with the Salt Creek extension takes 3 to 4 hours.

Is the trail open year-round?

Yes, the trail is open daily from sunrise to sunset. However, it may close temporarily after heavy rain, during wildlife nesting season (March–August), or for maintenance. Check the official website or call the Parks Department at (562) 570-3300 before your visit.

Conclusion

Hiking the Marine Stadium Trail is more than a physical activity — it’s an act of quiet reverence for a landscape shaped by history, ecology, and human intention. From the Olympic rowing basin that once echoed with the cheers of a global audience to the quiet marshes that now shelter endangered birds, this trail tells a layered story of resilience and renewal. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you don’t just complete a hike — you become a steward of its legacy.

The Marine Stadium Trail doesn’t demand grandeur. It asks for presence. It asks you to notice the way the fog rolls in, the sound of a heron’s wings, the scent of sage after rain. It asks you to step lightly, to leave nothing behind, and to carry forward only memories — and perhaps, a deeper understanding of how fragile and precious coastal ecosystems truly are.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone who’s never walked a trail before, the Marine Stadium Trail welcomes you — not as a tourist, but as a participant in its ongoing story. Lace up your shoes, pack your water, and step onto the path. The trail is waiting.