The Coolest Visitor Center In Washington Has A Boardwalk Trail Where You'll See Wildlife
By Andrea Verschuyl|Updated on May 10, 2024(Originally published August 14, 2023)
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Andrea Verschuyl
Author
Having grown up in Washington, Andrea is a self-admitted Pacific Northwest snob. In their opinion, there's simply nowhere else in the country with the Evergreen State's beauty. After attending university, Andrea devoted themselves to writing full-time. They're thrilled to represent Washington for Only In Your State while pursuing other professional and personal projects. They currently reside in Olympia, where they enjoy leaf-blowing their yard, perfecting homemade ramen, cuddling with their three tiny dogs, and feeding their pufferfish, Sea Biscuit.
If you’d like to hike a trail with wildlife near Olympia, Washington, look no further than Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. This walk is accessible, family-friendly, and astoundingly beautiful. Grab a pair of binoculars and throw on your shoes for a hike where you’ll see wildlife and learn some of the area’s rich history.
With over 275 species of birds and countless other resident animals, Nisqually Refuge is a fantastic destination for those seeking wildlife encounters. The United States Fish & Wildlife Services established the Refuge in 1974. In 2009, community leaders decided to remove a local dam. The removal flooded 762 acres, restoring the area back to an estuary.
Whether you're a local history buff or a bird watcher, Nisqually Refuge has something for you. Beginning at the visitor center, the park is full of informative signs. The trail is manageable for kids and beginning hikers. Its design includes key vantage points with panoramic views and plenty of spots to rest.
The local history is as interesting as the nearby plants and animals. Nisqually Refuge is the location of one of Thurston County's first homesteads. It's also an important site of Indigenous activism. The Refuge was a key battleground in the Fishing Wars of the 1960s and 1970s. In 2015, Barack Obama renamed the Refuge to memorialize Billy Frank Jr., an influential Nisqually activist.
Nisqually Refuge is a tidal estuary, which is a vital part of Washington's local ecology. It's the meeting place of the Nisqually River and the Puget Sound and comprises many unique habitats. This biodiversity attracts many types of wildlife and visitors who want to see them.
Most people spend about two hours on the trails, but I've always enjoyed the Refuge best when I pack a picnic and spend the day there. Since local tides affect the area, it's always changing. This means there's always something new to see for patient visitors!
Your reward for taking your time will be some of the best wildlife sightings in the area. Besides year-round and migratory birds, you may see sea lions, river otters, frogs, and more.
For an easy hike with outsized beauty, consider visiting this beautiful Washington spot. If you’re looking for a trail with wildlife near Olympia, Washington, you can’t beat this local stunner. To make a day out of it, visit the nearby capital for food and incredible craft breweries. Given its manageable size, it’s also a great option if you’re just passing through the area. Stop your car and stretch your legs at this remarkable destination. You won’t regret the time you spend there.
What do you consider the best visitor centers in Washington? What are some of your favorite things to do at Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge? Let us know in the comments!
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