Skip to main content

Welcome to the new Phoenix.gov! We value your feedback. Let us know how we can improve.

Take Survey

The official website of the City of Phoenix

Make a Payment
Report an Issue
Public Records
City Careers

      Tres Rios Wetlands

      Tres Rios with the Estrella Mountains to the south

      Welcome to Tres Rios! The Tres Rios Wetlands Environmental Restoration project involves the rehabilitation of nearly 700 acres in and around the Salt River, restoring a vital wetland and riparian habitat. Learn more about this amazing place down below.

      Get a Tres Rios Visitor Permit Now! - But You Can Only Visit From Sunrise to Sunset.
      On This Page...
      Tres Rios Wetlands

      The Tres Rios Wetlands 

      The lush and scenic Tres Rios is now home to more than 150 different species of birds and animals like muskrats, raccoons, skunks, coyotes, bobcats, and beavers. The beautiful cottonwood groves, willows, mesquites, and other desert shrubs around the reed-lined ponds and along the trail attract many migratory and wintering songbirds. By bringing the Salt River back to the condition it was in during the early 1800s, this project is repairing a natural habitat. 

      The reclaimed water from the wastewater treatment plant is pumped over to the wetlands, and the plants and animals take what they need before it is discharged back into the river.

      The American avocet wades in shallow water and sweeps its long bill from side to side looking for insects and crustaceans.

      Permits  to Visit 

      A PERMIT IS REQUIRED to visit Tres Rios. They are free of charge and must be requested prior to visiting. Permits are valid for six months and allow unlimited visits between sunrise and sunset, 365 days per year.  There are restrictions for visitors. Learn about them here.

      • About Tres Rios

        Plan your visit to Tres Rios Wetlands with our guide. Discover activities, access points, and tips for a memorable experience in nature.

      • History of Tres Rios

        Discover the rich history of Tres Rios Wetlands, a vital ecological restoration project enhancing biodiversity and water quality in Phoenix.

      • Birder Information

        Explore Tres Rios Wetlands for birdwatching tips, species info, and more. Discover a birder's paradise in Phoenix's unique ecosystem.

      • Frequently Asked Questions

        Discover answers to common questions about the Tres Rios Wetlands, including its development and infrastructure.

      • Related Links

        Explore essential resources and links related to the Tres Rios Wetlands, enhancing your understanding of this vital environmental project.

      • Contact Us/Request a Permit

        Get in touch with the Tres Rios Environmental Restoration Project team for inquiries and support on water services and environmental initiatives.

      • Driving Directions/Map

        Find driving directions to Tres Rios Wetlands, a key development in Phoenix's water infrastructure, and explore this unique ecological site.

      VIdeos about Tres Rios