Covering more than 16,000 acres, the Turnbull Wildlife Refuge serves as a wildlife sanctuary to hundreds of bird species, including twenty-seven species of ducks. Mammals thrive here as well, taking advantage of the vast undisturbed habitat (only 2200 acres of the refuge are open to the public). Most visitors never leave their vehicles, taking advantage instead of the great views along the 5.5-mile auto-tour route on a well-graded gravel road. That means hikers can find solitude as they explore the wonderful wildlife habitat of the area.

From the trailhead, head out on a wonderful trail that runs out along Winslow Pool to Pine Lakes. These pools are often full of ducks, geese, and swans in all seasons. The trail also provides easy access to an assortment of blinds--camouflaged huts that allow visitors to sit in hiding while viewing waterfowl up close.

The trail continues to loop out around the far shore of Winslow Pool, then along a dike between Pine Lakes and Winslow Pool. On the south shores of these pools stands a massive stand of ponderosa pines, providing homes to brown creepers and many woodpecker species.

If you want more hiking, head out on the Bluebird Trail, a 4-mile round trip beginning from a trailhead found behind the headquarters. The trail leads north to Kepple Lake.