Oftentimes we hike from A to B and enjoy the scenery while doing so. This trip is meant to enjoy the scenery while getting from A to B.
On flat surface like this I usually do 3.5 - 4 miles an hour, this trip took me 3 hours for a bit under 5 miles- walk, stop, listen, watch. Repeat.
The refuge is teeming with wildlife, birds were flying from right to left and left to right, others were wading in the marshes or just chirping along in the woods, there was constant action. I was early enough to beat the crowds, that might have helped- a few cars in the parking lot when I arrived on a Sunday shortly before 9am. The refuge has 97 parking spots and they were all taken when I returned around noon.
Restroom was well stocked and very clean; trails are suitable for all sensible shoes. Informative signs along the way provide helpful information. It was quite windy along the wetland boardwalk, so a rain jacket or windbreaker is recommended. Parking fee is $3 and is to be left in cash in an envelope. They accept "America the Beautiful" and a few other passes (they do NOT accept the Northwest Forest or Discovery Pass).
Binoculars are a must- they make the difference between white dots bouncing up and down in the distance - or watching birds diving in and out of the water; or help distinguish a brown bump in the meadow from a deer. They also help to really admire the beautiful plumage of birds that are relatively close. You will regret not bringing them.
Definitely a nice change from my usual alpine and forest adventures.
Comments