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A unique combination of estuary, tidal flats and freshwater marshes makes the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge a valuable wintering area for waterfowl.
The 3,000-acre refuge at the southern end of Puget Sound includes the Nisqually Delta, one of the largest remaining undeveloped estuaries in western Washington state.
The refuge is an excellent place for hiking, wildlife observation and photography, fishing, and environmental education. Facilities include photo blinds and an observation deck; interpretive programs; and seven miles of walking trails including a one-mile accessible boardwalk trail. A visitor center with exhibits is open 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday.
Many species of waterfowl feed, rest, and nest on the refuge's wetlands. Salmon and steelhead use the estuary for passage to upriver areas. Songbirds, woodpeckers, hawks and small mammals are found in the dense woodlands and grasslands. Mixed conifer forests on the bluffs above the delta provide perches for bald eagles and other birds of prey.
The refuge is about 10 miles east of Olympia on the north side of Interstate 5, exit 114. The refuge is open daily during daylight hours to foot traffic only.
Outdoor Activities |
