The Delta is made up of over 1,000 miles of waterways, covering four counties – Contra Costra, Sacramento, Solano and San Joaquin.
A small sample size of springtime on the Delta — which arrives on Thursday — can be seen along the Calaveras River Pedestrian Path in Stockton.
San Joaquin County has about 600 miles of this waterway consisting of rivers, levees and canals.
From March to April, the gates at the entrance of the trail – from Interstate 5, take the March Lane exit and go west until the road terminates into Buckley Cove Park / Ladd’s Marina, and park (but please hide or tuck away anything of value in your locked vehicle) outside of the gate – are open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
During the summer months (May through June) the trail is open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
With the nice weather comes a flurry of activity in this area, from water sports such as rowing and sailing, to runners and bicyclists.
Buckley Cove is also home to the Stockton Sailing Club, where plenty of California poppy can be seen along the shores located directly across from the pedestrian path.
The trees are green once again, providing a nice shade canopy for fishermen, day hikers, runners in training, or the weekend-warrior joggers along the pathway.
Spring ushers in summer. With it come the triple-digit temperatures not to mention jet skiing, waterskiing and wake boarding getting added to the mix of activities on the Delta.
This time of year is one of the best to leisurely enjoy the Delta.
Other places along the way include:
Tiki Lagoon Resort and Marina
Location: 12988 W. McDonald Road Stockton
Information: 209.941.8975 / www.tikimarina.com
This stop over features a state-of-the-arts covered boat slips along with internet access and other amenities.
Paradise Point Marina
Location: 8095 Rio Blanco Road Stockton
Information: 209.952-1000 / www.sevencrown.com
Drive or boat over to this full-service marina consisting of houseboats, ski boats, patio boats, and V-hull fishing boats. From Stockton on Interstate 5, take the Eight Mile Road exit and go west for five miles. Turn left at the bridge.
Quaint shops and restaurant can make it a relaxing stop for visitors trying to enjoy a quiet spring day.
Windmill Cove Resort & Marina
Location: 7600 Windmill Cove Road Stockton
Information: 209.948.6995 / www.windmillcove.com
Set to reopen at the end of the month, Windmill Cove on the Deep Water Channel offers a spectacular view of the San Joaquin River.
The restaurant will again feature plenty of specials while the grounds consists of amenities such as a private sandy beach, launch ramp, overnight docking and camping or cabin rental.
