Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge

Trip

Naturalist Trip - Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge

Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is a wonderful place to see birds and other wildlife. This will be a naturalist trip and slow paced. Preference will be given to participants in the Introduction to Shorebirds of the Pacific NW course on 9/13/22. Course participants may email the leader to be added to the roster prior to the opening date. Others are welcome to register when this trip opens.

  • Easy
  • Easy
  • Mileage: 5.0 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 10 ft

Meet 8am at Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge at the visitor center where there are restrooms. A refuge entrance pass is required ($3.00 per car or national park pass).

Carpools could be used (e.g. green lake/65th P&R, S. Renton P&R).  Let the leader know whether you will be in a carpool or driving alone. 

An email will be sent out a few days before the trip.

Bring binoculars and a spotting scope if you have it.  Also bring a bird book or a bird app on your phone (such as Merlin).  Warm clothing layers, gloves and rain gear may be needed.  Since we will be moving slowly and there may be a breeze as you leave forest trails and move out onto the estuary boardwalk, you will notice cooler temperatures.  It is a very beautiful area! 

For the best chance to see shorebirds, we will visit the fresh water marsh area early; then walk out on the estuary board walk for optimal tide levels in the early afternoon.  Bring your lunch and any snacks needed to keep up your energy.  We will also look for other birds and wildlife as we go. 

Route/Place

Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge


Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

The Ten Essentials

  • Navigation
  • Headlamp
  • Sun protection
  • First aid
  • Knife
  • Fire
  • Shelter
  • Extra food
  • Extra water
  • Extra clothes
Trip Reports