Quiet trails and superb birdwatching are notable features of the sanctuary. Visitors are offered a unique view of an efficient, low-tech wastewater reclamation which provides acres of mixed wildlife habitat. The City of
Arcata is located 250 miles north of
San Francisco on the northeastern shore of Humboldt Bay. Arcata constructed the Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary in 1981 and incorporated wastewater treatment in 1986.