Llano Seco Unit – NWR

This 1,732-acre U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service-owned property known as the Llano Seco Unit is a no fee area. The Llano Seco Unit offers wildlife viewing, a short walking trail and photographic opportunities for visitors. The 1-mile trail (1/2 mile out and back) departs from the Observation Deck at the Visitor Area located on 7-Mile Lane, just 15 minutes southwest of the city of Chico.  The trail takes you through the wetlands to an Observation Mound with a picnic table. From October – February you will find great viewing of sandhill cranes and waterfowl. There is very limited shade in this wetlands area, so we highly recommend proper head coverings and sunscreen. Also be prepared with insect repellant.
From Redding, Llano Seco Unit is a 90-minute driving south on I-5 to, to Orland turn east on SR-32, to Hamilton City turn south on SR-45, to Ord Ferry Road turn east and continue 5.2 miles, and turn south at 7-Mile Lane for 2.2 miles to your final destination. Here is a pin drop of the location: Llano_Seco_Unit_NWR_Location
If you have never visited Llano Seco before, I think you will be pleased with the access of two Observation Decks which are a half-a-mile apart, and the easy access trail that provides great views from the center of the upper Sacramento Valley.
Llano_Seco_NWR_Visitor_Guide