The Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. Located near Olympia, Washington, the refuge offers four miles of trails that highlight the diversity of the delta. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the Twin Barns Loop Trail, which offers views of the Nisqually River, a permanent wetland, and riparian habitat.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
The refuge is home to hundreds of species of plants and animals, including harbor seals, bald eagles, and migratory birds. The Nisqually Estuary Boardwalk is a highlight of the refuge, extending one mile over the estuary and providing a landscape that changes with the tides. On a clear day, visitors can see Mount Rainier and the Olympic Range.
The refuge is open from sunrise to sunset every day, and the visitor center is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Visitors can check the tide times on the refuge’s website to plan their visit.
History of the Refuge
The Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1974 to preserve the Nisqually River Delta. The refuge was renamed in 2016 to honor Billy Frank Jr., a member of the Nisqually Indian Tribe and a leader in the conservation movement. The refuge is part of the National Wildlife Refuge System, which is a network of 572 national wildlife refuges and 38 wetland management districts.
Original reporting: Renton Reporter — read the source article.
