Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge — Saturday, May. 6, 2017

Puget Sound and Islands > Seattle-Tacoma Area

My friend and I went to check out this nature sanctuary early on Saturday. I have been wanting to check this out for awhile but have held off since I feel guilty leaving my dog at home. He knows when I am dressing for a hike! I get it though. Its a quite space not suitable for dogs. We met at 7:30 and there was already a hand full of cars in the lot. Bring exactly $3.00 in cash for parking. The box is not set up for credit or debit or to give change. We actually put in a bit more as we had no small bills but its all to a great cause to keep this special place in operation. We had the pleasure of seeing 3 new baby owls. Someone set up with a fancy camera was kind enough to let us take a peek thru the lens. We saw a couple of eagles as well. The trail is in good condition but one small section of boardwalk was closed. The storm that came thru on Thursday took down a large tree. I am sure they will get that reopened quickly. Most of the hike/walk is on boardwalk and its all dry and in great shape except on small section at the start where the tree is down. Its really an experience to walk out onto the boardwalk that extends into the sound. The air is salty and even though the freeway is right there you feel like you are out and off on a great seaside adventure. Lots of cameras and bird watchers set up on our way back especially. Glad we got there early on this beautiful day. We managed to get in about 4.5 miles. All flat and should be easy for about anyone to do.