Explore the Shore at the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
Location: Near Olympia, WA
Features: Trails, Interpretive Center, Bird Watching
Pass Required: Federal Interagency Pass or $3 fee
Adventure Report
4 miles of trails and 191 acres of tide flats
Over 300 species of birds, mammals, fish, reptiles, and amphibians inhabit the refuge
Walk over the refuge on the boardwalk and check out the view towers
Dogs, bikes, and jogging are not allowed
Driving the I-5 corridor south from Tacoma to Olympia, I had seen the signs for the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge but never stopped until one day, after dropping my son off at SeaTac, I had some time to kill and wanted to stretch my legs so I decided to check it out. I was amazed to find a pocket of tranquility just a few minutes from the interstate. The refuge welcomes you with a large interpretive center. From the center, there are four miles of trails including the 1-mile accessible Twin Barns Loop Trail, and the Nisqually Estuary Trail, which takes you over the estuary on a board walk. Both trails offer benches where you can sit and enjoy the view, overlooks, and lots of opportunities for bird watching. The Estuary Trail even has observation platforms, a tower, and blinds. Although the last short stretch of the Estuary Trail is closed during hunting season, most of the trail remains open year round. Whether you need a short break from the stress of driving I-5, or are looking for an amazing chance to connect with nature in the Olympia/Tacoma area, check out the Nisqually Wildlife refuge.
