Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge Reviews

$3/adult admission on the honnor system and if you spend the time "take it all in", it cannot be done in a single visit by most; yet even a shor hour or two is satisfying. Interpretative center off the parking lot has a lobby with coffee (it is the Pacific NorthWest, PNW) and gifts and huge, darkened room with lighted displays depicting the climate, geology, fauna and vegetation, aquatic zones, animal life, and Puget Sound shore life of the Mount Raineer watershed with an emphasis on the Nisqually Delta including its history from First Peoples to industrialization and farming then followed by current, on-going, restoration efforts. Spending some time here will definitely help make many of the suggested sites, parks, and even many of the coffee house conversations make more sense.

The handicapped access is pretty good but, those who are mobility impaired will find that the parking lot is large (drop your folks close to the interprative center then park) and the actual distances between things are longer than they seem. Beyond the interpretive center there is some pavement followed by boardwalks which are followed by dirt trails; signs clearly state the distances of each trail/path segment but they are metered in terms of portions of a mile not feet. There are quite a number of mid-path interpretive signs and displays along with rest stops and seating. Considering that this is a large wildlife preserve with paths through multiple ecosystems, it is one of the better parks for those who are in mixed-mobility groups or simply mobility challenged.

It is very possible to picnic here, bring your own food and drink, or even prep food in the parking lot. There is no camping and vehicles are not allowed to stay overnight in the parking lot. The surrounding area includes some semi-rural roadways and the I-5 exit includes a traditional, semi-truck re-fueling station.

We saw 7 eagles and a multitude of other birds. It is windy as you walk out but worth walking until the end. Lovely boardwalk and wildlife abounds.

Easy hike for the littles as well as elderly along the boardwalk. Great location for bird watching as well as spotting the water life along the boardwalk. Don't miss the nature fun play area for children and the Information Center with it's interesting film about the area and the wild life. Bring a lunch and enjoy the shade under the lush trees near the two huge white barns. Great photo shoot location!

We visit Nisqually every time we come to the Olympia/Lacey area. We have a National Parks Pass, so it costs nothing. The boardwalk is gorgeous. On a clear night, you see a beautiful reflection of Mt. Rainier in the water. I will always support our parks.

The Nisqually Wildlife Refuge has a series of easy trails that are mostly boardwalks, for viewing wildlife. Also, a very nice interpretive center with very helpful staff.

The wildlife sanctuary is large, but only a portion is available to people. The boardwalk path is great.

This refuge has lots of birds. The walking paths are clean and nice boardwalks and clean restrooms. We saw lots of Wood Ducks, Mallards, Songs birds, Sea Gulls, Pelicans, Several Great Blue Herons, Bald Eagles & Turkey Vultures, etc. Nice viewing areas. Would visit this place again.

This is a beautiful place to take a stroll. Everytime I go there I have a great time. The views are spectacular.

I have been visiting the refuge for years and it continues to be a great way to get some exercise,and look for wildlife, the trails and boardwalks are level answer easy to walk, there are restrooms at the visitor center

We visited on a Wednesday which is the reserves dedicated day for birdwatchers. There were many helpful regulars who were happy to point out birds and other wildlife. From this vantage point in the Puget Sound were able to get great views of both the Olympic Mountains and Mt. Ranier. Check the website before going. I believe they are only open Wed thru Sun.

We enjoyed our visit to this peaceful location. It was a good start to our stay in the area as it provided some insight into local geography. We saw some waterfowl. We didn’t explore the hiking trails as one member of our group had some mobility issues.

A great place to take a leisure or brisk walk amongst the beautiful scenic views...plenty of places to sit and rest if need be...definitely a great place for photo taking especially of the bald eagles!

My husband, my daughter and I took this walk on a very warm day. We started the walk about 10:30 am and were done about 12:30 pm. We stopped and ate our picnic sandwiches half way through. There is a little bridge over some water at the visitor center and the water is covered with an unreal green layer. If you look closely you will notice frogs holding completely still in the water. The first half of the walk was mostly shaded and it felt like we were walking through a small forest on level ground. The path is wide and smooth and even. There are stopping points along the way where you can stand or sit and just enjoy the greenery. Along the trail today, we saw a great blue heron and a larger gray bird which may have been a crane. I suppose that early in the morning would be a wonderful time to stop here and watch.

The Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is our favorite and an enduring, super experience! My wife and I love to visit and take walks along its unique mile-long boardwalk. Depending on the tides you can see a variety of fowl and other critters. But, whether high or low tides, it's going to be a winner for ya. They have even positioned porta-potties for us old guys! From American Bitterns to lovely Great Herons, Marsh Hawks and Bald Eagles, you'll remember the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge. What a gem!

This is a beautiful reserve, which has a variety of vegetation and wildlife. There are also great views of Mt Rainier from the boardwalk over the wetlands, on a clear day.
The cost is $3.00 for your family group (car), which you pay near the visitor centre.
In summer it can get hot in the open areas, requiring sunscreen and hat. Wear good walking shoes.

This is a nice get-away. You may or may not see wildlife but the place is interesting and quiet, it is worth a little time away.

Right from the twin barn to the board walk, it is a great place to spend few hours. Right of the I-5, you need either a national parks pass or $2-3 dollars to experience the refuge.

Nisqually is a nature lover's paradise, and certainly a bird lover's paradise, too! We found a very well organized trail system, and as much hiking as we wanted for a day. The small kiosks helped inform us about various species, and the whole affair was kept very clean and neat.

Beautiful place to walk, my family and I love it here. However parking a limited I recommend getting there early. And for a bonus check the tide charts before you go probably best to go when the tide is in.

Beautiful boardwalk that extends into the sound. Definitely a good place for a couple hour walk and to see the nature of WA.

Love to go to Nisqually just to walk and view the wild that is forever changing. We take our cameras just in case we can get that great shot. We saw about 6 deer one time when there was a light rain falling. No telling how many were watching us.
Still waiting to get that great shot. I think it has something to do with the person taking the picture.

I have been here several times at different times of the year and it's always beautiful. It's quiet, serene and an easy family friendly walk. What a plus it's wheel chair and stroller friendly so everyone can enjoy

I went with friends and we had a great time. We did not see many birds, but the walk was great. I will try earlier in the day next time..

Very enchanting and peaceful. The long walk along the wood decking is amazing! I loved seeing the wildlife.

This is really cool. The boardwalk is about 3.2 miles. It was low tide when we got there, and the tide had come in on our way back. It is stroller/wheelchair friendly. Would be a nice place to take a mental break👍🏼

On the Billy Frank refuge is on both sides of interstate 5 which is not a good place to put a bird sanctuary since they do not like the noise from the freeway they are less likely to procreate .
Not the best place to bird watch..

Beautiful nice relaxing area to visit and enjoy the peaceful quietness. Enjoyed the long nice walk all the way out to the bridge. The only thing is you have to go to the bathroom first before getting on the trails because it's a long round trip walk.

The trails were beautiful. Lots of stops for observation and information on wildlife. Saw ducks, blue heron, old farm buildings, frogs, and songbirds.

Nisqually Nature Center is actually named Billy Frank's Jr
Nisqually Nature Refuge.
This is the best place to go bird watching for water fowl to raptor's. The best walking trails are wonderful! They're as long or as short as you want to walk. But I have to warn you that if you don't walk out to the elevated walking pier then you're missing the best part. This is about 4 miles plus round trip but there's benches for resting although it's so pretty and you get caught up in watching for birds that you won't notice how far you've gone. And you'll meet lots of people doing the same thing. I've been all over the world and this is my favorite place to relax or walk or picnic and reflect on how wonderful our planet is!

Gramma day with 2 Grammas and 8 year old & 9 year old. We all put our fitbits on and off we went. The weather was nice and we got to see lots of wild life. Beavers, turtles, squirrels & birds. We had a picnic and the day was wonderful.

I went on a field trip with my son's 5th grade class in June. This place is beautiful and so peaceful. The weather was just right, partly sunny and not too hot. We did the trails and walked the whole boardwalk. We saw so many animals. The views were spectacular. Will definitely go back and take the whole family next time. Make sure to bring water and a good pair of walking shoes!

I was pleasantly surprised by this place. Wood board walks throughout. Very spacious and well mapped out.

Friendly and helpful staff. Good parking. Can't wait to go back and walk around and hopefully take my grandson.

We love to go here for a walk. The boardwalk is great and gives you a great place to walk. You can see all sorts of birds including eagles.

One of the longest boardwalks in the world, the easy trails stretch out into the marsh flats where you have the chance to see thousands of birds. When you are not on the boardwalk, the easy gravel paths will give you plenty of opportunities to see wildlife. This place is popular and the parking lots fill up fast on the weekend, so plan accordingly. There are over 4 miles of trails to enjoy. Your national parks pass will get you free admission (otherwise it is only $3). Enjoy this wonderful place that is just a few miles south of Tacoma...

This was a nice nature walk. The boardwalk is nice. We didn't see much for wildlife. We went in the fall time so not a lot of coverage for the animals. You can do the whole walk in about an hour.

I love walking out on the boardwalk, it is great to spend the time in a natural, nature setting, Everything is real as it should be. Watching the Eagles can be the highlight to any ones day, no mater how young or old.

Visited the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge on an overcast day.....go figure. It is a peaceful place where you can reset and recharge. The walkway is good for most any age. The sights and sounds are just what you need. Wild berry bushed provide the song birds with food and hiding spots while ducks swim and herons hunt for food. One visit to the Nisqually Widlife Refuge will make you visit more often. Relax and Enjoy!!

What a pleasure to exit the I-5 insanity and within minutes enter this amazing wildlife sanctuary. The Visitor's Center is a delight, with plenty of exhibits and resources to enjoy. The refuge is a wonderous habitat of deep woods, a rushing river, marshes and saltwater flats. Thousands of migrating birds congregate here during the year and it's remarkable to be able to observe them so close. The pathways and long board walks are level and easily accessible.

The trails are well maintained with stopping points showing maps of where you are and what is located around you. Plenty of historical markers explaining how and why the surrounding area was developed into a farming community during the beginning.

The refuge is a great place for birdwatching and for a walk. It is well maintained and there was plenty of parking. We saw turtles, frogs and lots of birds. The park ranger was very helpful. We bought our lifetime seniors national parks pass while there. ONLY $10 EACH - GET ONE!!

hadn't been here since it was "remodeled"....decades ago.....such a beautiful place for a short nature journey or a long trek....definitely recommend!

We took a walk thru the park and were in awe of the seceinery wildlife and how well kept up the wooden path was.lots of information as you wander and several trails to discover. Good for everyone

I have RA so it is very difficult for me to walk, however, this place is flat enough I can do a walk

Even if you're not an avid birder, this is a wonderful place to take a walk. It's also good for freshwater bird photography as the path is close to the water (at least at certain times of the year). It's easy to access of I-5 and there's a helpful visitors center.

I always enjoy a long, walk on a sunny day at Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. The views of the Puget Sound, Olympic Mountains, and Mount Rainer can't be beat - plus you can even see bald eagles! Highly recommend the boardwalk trail.

Hubby and I enjoyed a nice walk on the trail and boardwalk. I am a birder and love seeing any kind of birds. We did see families of Canada Geese and lots of swallows. A few Great Blue Herons, Cormorants and some seals? We visited back in 2015 for the first time and we were in the area May 2017 and wanted to see more of the place. I would highly recommend a visit to this wildlife refuge.

Low tide, high tide....you are bound to hear and see a lot! Sure, I would have loved to be there at high tide too, but we saw a lot of wild life. Deer, snakes in the mud flats, a weasel, a fledgling eagle sitting on the edge of its nest, and a mature eagle soaring along the mud flats as well as frogs, crabs, ducks, and many species of birds. It was so peaceful and educating for young and old!

This Preserve has wonderful walking path on the Nisqually Delta; many birds feeding in the rich delta waters.

Even in the winter, the walk through the woods and boardwalk were absolutely incredible. We saw many birds and even some seals. I hope to be back, definitely with binoculars and my good camera!

Best place for a short walk with friends and or family.....great for kids to watch a variety of wildlife....quiet and peaceful.....do bring the camera with you....

I ahve hiked the trails of the Nisqually Refuge for many years and have had a great time and found new things to see every time I have went on a hike. The wild life and flora is spectauclar and needs to be seen first ahnd to really enjoy.

When you go for a walk here, you are walking above the marsh land and on the beach. Wild life is all around you. You will see lots of eagles, hawks and seagulls along with an occasional seal. A truly enjoyable wander.

This wild refuge is beautiful during high tide. Get to see close up several species of birds. A quiet and peaceful place to walk and reflect.
Sixty miles south of Seattle, next to Olympia the state capital it is only an hour drive from Seattle. It is a nice place for families with children. The boardwalk is about a mile over the water when there is high tide. Easy walk with no incline. Good for seniors and people in a wheelchair.

Beautiful easy walk. If you want a longer walk over the marsh or a stroll through the trees it is easy safe boardwalk. Well maintain, lots of birds, frogs and some deer. My grandchildren and I had a great time,

A place to get away from the crowds and see nature/wildlife up close! Vice flat trails anyone can hike! Delta, Puget Sound and River views!

No running allowed at this location for some reason. Paid 3 bucks before sign restricting running encountered

Flush toilets at visitor center. Parking is limited. No parking for RV's. Porta John's in the middle of the hike. Tide out: NOT much to see. Tide IN: Lot's more to see. This is a marsh area, that is affected by the tide. Do yourself a favor; spray at least your ankles for bugs. More birds and animals are present when the tide is in. The hikes are reasonably marked and great for a family outing. Most of the hike out to the sound is NO SHADE, so wear a hat, and take some water. There are a few benches for setting along the way, but not a lot. This is dog on leash area, so keep your dog on a leash. There are a few pavillion type covered areas on the long walk out to the sound. We visited in July, very hot, and not much animal activity. Keep an eye out for any animals, including baby skunks.... Oh so cute. There is a small gift shop here that had a great variety of items.

TIP: PLAN AHEAD: check out the tide chart,, more to see when tide is in. Spring or Fall is best. Wear a hat, mostly sunny areas on the hike. Put on bug spray.

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We (meaning my wife) wanted to visit the wildlife refuge, she being a semi-avid birder. We have driven past this refuge so many times on the way to somewhere else and never given it much thought, but on a beautiful summer Thursday we headed out specifically intending on a visit. The weather was agreeable so we really enjoyed our walk around the loop trail with various stops that have information boards about the wildlife you might encounter. Ever present in the background is the traffic noise from Interstate 5, but there is still a surprising sense of peace and quiet.

A perfect place to spend an afternoon! The trails and boardwalks are well-maintained and are just right to take the kids (any age, in my opinion). Also great by yourself, just be sure to bring a camera!

You can no longer take your dogs for a walk here, at least last time we went you couldn't. Another thing that stinks is my family has gone here every year for 35 years to pick apples in the fall, and now they have restricted that because they say the deer get to eat them, which is more important than people. Traditions for families are now changed because of a state that loves wild animals more than people. Still love these trails, and it's beautiful to walk.

I went walking with a walking group last summer, and you can go at your own pace and decide how long of a walk to take, and it's very scenic.

Wonderful place for a quiet walk viewing nature and Puget Sound. Great place to stroll with friends for an outing.

A special place where fresh water meets the ocean. So many birds! An adventure fo young and old.lots of walking and wheelchair accesable pathways. Bring a lunch.

Our club headed out to Billy Frank Refuge for some nice and easy boardwalking. 3 dollar fee for up to 3 adults (16 and under free).

Very level walking surface. Cool barns. Birds. Sunshine. Interpretive center.

Free parking.

This was an amazing area, easy to walk (and we had someone on a cane) and very interesting. There's a loop to walk with a couple of options. Lots to look at. Would be great for kids.

My 4 teenage sons loved this family hike. The different types of landscapes you see throughout the loop make it special. There is nothing like walking through a well-manicured boardwalk so you can focus on looking up and not down. Totally recommend. Saw bald eagles.

Nisqually walk is just enough distance for exercise and relaxation. Tide in or tide out gives variety. Eagle, geese, duck, owls, deer, heron, all regularly seen.

Visiting our daughter and this was just a few miles away. What a beautiful place. Calm, serene and quiet, a place to really enjoy nature. Inexpensive and since it is federal, we used our Golden passes which enabled us to take our daughter for free also.

There's something different at Nisqually every time you go. It's never the same trip, but it's always beautiful. Kid and Stroller friendly too which is a huge plus.

Great place to go on a nice day. Lots of things to see. Make sure you have you walking shoes on. This boardwalk goes all the way out into the sound .

I came here to spend a little time one afternoon and spent more like three hours. Good for a short visit, longer walk along the boardwalk, and birding opportunities.

Such a simple and wonderful state park. Great place to see birds. It's only better now that they allowed the sound water to naturally come it.

This park was incredibly well maintained. We happened to stop in as we were looking for a place to stretch our legs on the way from Quinault to Tacoma. Beautiful park, lots of birds and deer.

I have three kids, 14 girl, 12 boy, and 10 girl. We love to go on walks and hikes. During the rainy season it can be a challenge to find hikes where you don't get muddy. Nisqually is a great choice at these times.
Most of the walkways are board walks and keep you high and dry. We love to watch for owls and eagles.
Our kids enjoy it and if they start off complaining, it quickly goes away as soon as we start walking.
This is a great recommendation in the Olympia area.

a Great place for a stroll, a nature walk, or to attend an interesting presentation.

"off the beaten path?" NO stay ON the path

We came across this beautiful place when researching ways to spend time near Olympia. It is a wonderful reserve with very varied habitats.We saw young owls and tons of other birds. The only downside is the proximity to the interstate.There's always this unpleasant background noise

Convenient, right off the I-5. $3 honor system. Nice boarded walkway and also gravel paths. Great for bird watching. Had lots of people with camera's /binoculars. Nice, beautiful views.

Had lots of signs about break-ins to vehicles. We were travelling from Portland to Seattle and had all of our stuff in car, so we didn't stay as long as we wanted as we were worried about our belongings.

Easy to get to right off Interstate 5, Great Parking and a mere three dollars park fee. The best part is the trails and boardwalk around the park and seeing the different sites and wildlife. No Dogs, Bikes or Jogging but very easy to walk, around four miles long get there early during the day the trials do become more and more crowded with other walkers and bird watchers and people taking pictures. Gift shop on Site open certain hours and certain days. Good for singles, couples, and Families with children

This is an easy walk that takes you through beautiful natural surroundings that include trees, wildlife and right out onto the water. Everytime I go, there is something new - baby eagles, foliage, flowers. Always breathtaking.

We took our four tween and teen grandchildren for an easy hike here as this park is pretty close to our home. I think the grandkids enjoyed the setting. The hikes are flat and vary in distance, so there is something there for everyone.

It's called a wildlife refuge, but it's also a refuge for those who need to unplug, get away, breathe great air.
The trails provide opportunity to see so many diverse and wonderful creatures, as well as experience a riparian forest, tidal rhythms and a beautiful panorama of color.

Bring binoculars, a camera, and water if you take the walkway to the very end. There is a very small parking fee on the honor system.

It's a beautiful place.

The children loved it! They loved learning about the different birds and how to identify them. They loved a field trip where they could walk and not just sit. Be careful you really need bug spray in the summer.

This is a nice place for a long walk with mostly flat land. Small hills, stroller accessible! Beautiful views once you get out into the refuge area. 2.1 miles to the end of the boardwalk, round trip 4.2 miles.

Beautiful peaceful unspoiled estuary populated by small animals and several verities of native birds. Stunning views in late afternoon sun.

The Billy Frank-Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is one of Washington's hidden gems. You can stroll around the fresh water ponds or hike three miles across the salt water tide flats on the board walk. You'll see Eagles, Herons, a variety of ducks and geese all year round. In the summer add turtles and frogs, early in the morning you may see a mink or otters, late in the day look for the beavers. Any season, any weather it's a great place to visit.

This estuary was returned to its natural state when the levees were removed a few years back. It is amazing how it has been transformed. Walk ways and informative stops lead you along the way. Worth the stop off of I5. The whole family will enjoy it. If possible seasonal visits really tell the story of how the estuary works.

Nice place for a long or short nature walk. Family friendly & all level, no hills at all. Please note the boardwalk out to the sound isn’t always open due to maintenance & duck hunting season.

Beautiful estuary. Lots of birds. Excellent boardwalks wind throughout the area. Very knowledgeable and helpful staff

We only saw ducks & a beaver dam but it was a pleasant stroll along a "Boardwalk." Lots of people but not a crowded or loud experience. Many photographers enjoying the wait for something special. We needed a walk after being cooped up in the car & this was perfect.

The Nisqually sanctuary is one of the best places to walk and observe a variety of birds and different ecosystems. It is quiet, flat boardwalks and very peaceful. Highly recommended,

This is a beautiful place to take a stroll, see some wildlife, and take in beautiful scenery. There is a $3 admission but we are always there for several hours so we think it's $3 well spent. There's a great variety of wildlife and birds to see so you'll want to bring binoculars and your camera. Definitely worth a visit even on an overcast day.

We spent only two hours here in our last visit and saw 38 species of bird. The kids loved it! We'll definitely go back soon.

Pretty neat location located just east of Olympia off of Interstate 5. Many trails, lots of wildlife (esp birds) and just a great place to go and walk. The boardwalk over the inlet is interesting, especially at low tide. You pay a small fee to use the facility, but it is worth it. Bring a camera or you phone to snap photos.

3 highlights:
-Great variety of wildlife (birds & mammals)
-easy hiking trails
-it’s a worthwhile activity no matter the season

I have driven by a zillion times , so glad I stopped! I caught a calm winter day with sun & clouds-it was really dynamic over the water. I had zero expectations and I can tell you it was exactly what my mind & body needed after typical Pacific NW winter weather. I think I got there at 3 and had to turn around about 4:30 with sun going down. I didn’t make it to the end of the boardwalk out into the sound so look forward to going back. I also plan to return during all the seasons. I was surprised at the variety of bird life in Winter, loved it. LOTS of photographers. I definitely wished i’d had my good camera & binoculars. So grateful for accessible nature areas like this.

I am a bit mobility challenged but the walk in on the trails and out over the water was one of the highlights of my trip to Olympia. I was here before, years ago but the removal of the artificial structures has had a spectacular result. So many species in such numbers!!!! Don’t miss out.

If you're a birdwatcher, love outdoor nature, and can walk 5 miles, then this is the place for you. Go here during sunny and overcast weather. Its absolutely breathtaking environment to get a good 5 mile stroll in. You'll have to pay the $3 parking fee, but definitely worth the 5 mile, 10 mile (if you turn around and walk the other way after walking the 5 miles). Bring water on that hike and some tp and ziplock if you need to tinkle or the other stuff behind a bush. Great water and nature views and it's peaceful. but as alway bring some pepper spray, since you never know who may be a predator out there in nature.

It was warm in western Washington today, so we visited the Nisqually Refuge in the morning. The price of a visit is great - $3 for your whole group! There's a visitors' center staffed by helpful souls and lots of information along the trails to guide your visit. We took the smaller one mile loop because it was what I could manage with my walker, but my boingy grandchildren were completely engaged with what they saw along the boardwalk.

We began our walk when the tide was still out and hunted for different animal tracks in the muddy banks beneath us. It was a perfect nature walk. We were surrounded by tall, old trees and caught sight of lots of bird species as we walked. We were a little surprised to see a seal swimming the river, but the mink that ran across the trail just by the Nisqually River observation area was even more surprised to see us as we were to see him. That critter really moved! We stopped at the old twin barns to climb trees, eat snacks, and make some friends. I love how children know no strangers.

Do bring good walking shoes, sun screen, bug spray, and water. There are porta potties by the barns and several picnic tables in the shade.

All in all, a perfect visit. I'm so glad that the area was saved in this form for future nature lovers.

It's a nature trail that can accommodate the entire family even on a stroller. The place is very cozy and you can really feel the fresh air on your face. I like watching the birds. I spent time watching the fish too as if they're free just swimming around.

Take your binoculars to bird watch either from the covered deck over a pond or walk the 3-4 miles of boardwalk and cinder trails to see where river meets the bottom of Puget Sound. Gear up for rain except July- September most days.

Nisqually is a very calming place where you can walk and enjoy the nature around you. Walking to the bridge, you can see some bald eagles which is pretty cool. The boardwalk is about 4 miles and I don't think I went that far. I haven't been here in so long. I did not go June 2017, the last time I went was probably 2-3 years ago.

First, Trip Advisor has the name wrong, it is now the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually NWR. This used to be your typical federal duck farm, but a few years ago they pulled a dike and restored several hundred acres of tidelands that are critical estuary habitat for the Nisqually salmon runs, and they also built a very long boardwalk (a couple of miles) that runs out across the tidelands. Coupled with public trails already existing on the refuge, this makes for enough scenic and wildlife-filled hiking to fill up a day. The birding is outstanding, especially during spring and fall migrations. There's quite a good visitor center, and occasionally they host talks and tours of the site - check the Refuge website for details. There are also pleasant short walks at the site, so it's really an all-ages attraction, and generally family-friendly (except, no pets allowed). There is a daily use fee, it was $3 last time I checked, or free if you have the federal national parks pass.

This is a beautiful place to visit. Lots of wildlife in this river delta area. It has actually been renamed The Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge. Every vista is photo worthy.

This is a great place to take a long walk. Easy to get to from I-5. Easy to park. Dress for the weather and in layers as you will be walking in shade and sun depending on the length of walk you take. What wildlife you see will depend on time of day and time of year. Restroom facilities at beginning/information building very nice/port-a-potty available on trail.

Nis has a flat board walk and trails making it accessible to many. There is a little museum with high quality exhibits that explain the natural history of this estuarian habitat. Spring and fall 5e place is teaming with ooodles of birds for the birding enthusiast. It is amazing getting way out over the mudflats on a mile long board walk! Hot days you can stick to the shady close n trails and maybe see muskrats and big turtles in the fresh water area. Spend an hour or spend 4. It is really a lovely spot!

I took family from Germany here and they really enjoyed the walk and the wildlife. It’s so close to town and you can go for a short walk or a long walk and see seals, eagles and fish.

The Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is an inexpensive way to spend an after noon. The hike around the loop is short, only 1 mile in length, with several scenic resting spots and short spurs. The boardwalk is easily traversed with a stroller, though young walking children may become tired by the time you reach the picnic area by the barns. Educational billboards along the path inform the visitor about the scenery and wildlife they may encounter.

Great place for a short quick hike or to view wildlife. Can be hiked year round as trail is mostly boardwalk.

This is a great place for a short or a long 5 mile walk, every season offers a different experience as its beauty and the wildlife is forever shifting,

It's lovely there, and we see frogs hopping all over the place. The kids loved the gift shop as well.

The paths take you into various ecosystems, each with some diversity of birds, vegetation, and other woodland creatures. Lots of enthusiastic bird watchers - all of whom were friendly and excited to show you what they have seen.

Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge - great place to hike and/or walk, although you go out about 2.5 miles and come back in the exact same way.

A premier Wildlife refuge along the Nisqually delta. It has numerous walks which can abound with birdlife depending on season of visit. A bit disappointed since part of walk was closed due to storm damage. Unfortunately visitor center was closed to when I visited. Still was able to view many birds and got a good walk in. Will certianly visit again.

Great place for families. Everything is flat, so easy for the older and younger visitors. The boardwalk over the mudflats can be very hot, with few shaded areas. Bring water if it is a hot day, and a hat! Try to time your visit when the tide is high. We visited when the tide was just starting to come in and even over our hour or two, we could see more birds arriving as the tide came in.
Three bucks per car - you can't beat that. Grounds are kept incredibly well. The parking areas are fairly small. Lots of cars when we arrived, but the refuge is large so you don't feel cramped. There is a small picnic area near the two very cool barns.
There are several trails. You can take some paths that do not go out over the mud flats and are well-shaded.

We visited in the spring, with my 2 & 5 year old grandkids. Saw many birds - vey interesting for the adults, but the kids got bored very quickly. the traffic noise from I-5 also takes away from the beauty of the surroundings.

Now is a great time of the year to visit this Wildlife Refuge. Trees are in full bloom and there are shades of green everywhere. Geese, ducks and other birds have their young in full display. Eagles, shorebirds. various waterfowl, and birds are abundant, and easy to see in the Spring. Fish come into the refuge area during the tidal cycle. Be sure to check the tide tables and charts for Nisqually Flats and Nisqually Reach before visiting this preserve. My recent walk to the end of the long deck over the water was during low tide, and as the tide started coming in, various fish were making their way into the river and estuary. There are many hiking trails to follow, and it is best to visit the Visitor Center for a map before choosing your particular route through this wonderful refuge. If you love seeing wildlife in natural settings, come and support this refuge. Dogs are not permitted, and the daily fee is $3.00 per day unless you have an annual pass.

The walk is level and gravel of wooden boardwalk and about 2.5 miles to the end (one-way). Always good bird watching, I see peregrine falcons often, baldies and great blue herons always and 15-20 others. Watching the reverting back to an estuary has been fascinating as I have walked out there many years before the salt water was allowed to return back to the estuary.

Recently took friends to the refuge. We enjoyed a walk along the trils, including the board walk. Spotted deer, a mink(?), and many birds. Enjoyable afternoon!

Saw many birds, tree frogs and snakes. It was educational and also good exercise. There were several types of shore birds to be seen at low tide.

Billy Frank Jr Nisqually is a fun little walk. It's very level and is a good trail for kids and less sure-footed folks. The boardwalk is wide. I've done it many times at various times of the year. Good year-round. Also good to see when the tide is high or low.

There is a real combination of solitude, quiet and sounds on visiting this site. I'd recommend some binoculars and a camera (not only do you get a combination of wildlife, there is also Mt Rainier on a clear day). Take some water and breaks on the walk along the extensive trails and boardwalks. One can see why the delta was returned to its natural state. Take 3 dollars as a donation for the car park. Lovely.

The Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge has an interesting history. For decades, a hand-dug dike kept the salt water out, allowing for large-scale farming on this land. Only recently was the dike removed and an elevated boardwalk installed. Read about the history at the Visitor’s Center.

There is a loop path from the Visitor’s Center that traverses wetlands and riparian forest. Including a couple of side trails to short viewpoints, the loop is about 1.5 miles. Near the far end of the loop are two historical barns from the farming era, and just beyond that is an elevated walkway that looks like a dike. You can follow it a half mile to the beginning of the elevated boardwalk, which extends another 1.1 miles over tidal flats to its end at Nisqually Reach. (A “reach” is where a river widens; in this case it is where the Nisqually River, originating from the Nisqually Glacier on Mt. Rainier, empties into Puget Sound.) The entire area is fantastic for birding. You can do the loop and the entire boardwalk in less than five miles.

Tip: Check the tides for Nisqually Reach before you go. The area of the walkway can be underwater, or mostly dry, depending on the tide.

I was in town for a day and debated about what to do. I took an Uber from the hotel, and spent hours there. I hadn’t planned on staying that long, but the scenery and wildlife was terrific. No eagles because I was too late in the season, but I saw geese, mallards, seagulls, frogs, and even seals on an island off of the boardwalk. Very nice, and extremely walker or wheelchair friendly,with boardwalks and walkways throughout. I would love to go back!

this is a popular birding destination, with very nice boardwalk and dirt trail. all are on even ground so not much elevation change.

the highlight of my trip is to see a pair of mating eagles. both of them were pottering around the sandbank for a long time, much to the delight of bird watchers.

you can also rent kayaks and get closer to the birds.

i think this place is best visited in the winter when the water level is higher. and when the foliage is sparse. many birds are migratory too.

in the summertime, there are quite a lot of mosquitos buzzing around. but the upside is there are some wild berries for picking.

i would also try to time my visit based on tidal change (high tide covers the mud and attracts birds)

hopefully i can return one day in the winter.

This is a lovely place to view Seabirds etc. But beware, it is near the water so bring a jacket, the breeze can be chilly. Easy walking paths.

Nisqually is truly a treat, and a natural retreat in an otherwise congested and bustling metropolitan area.

This is not a flashy park, its meant for a contemplative stroll through the bird and wildlife sanctuary. It provides an opportunity to see river life under the canopy of trees, and the plants and animals that change in a huge tidal flatland. The walk ways are either wooden or gravel and walking is easy. Runners and bikers are not allowed, so everyone is just walking and enjoying nature ... it is a serene way to spend a couple of hours!

We've been here a couple of times and it is a wonderful way to spend 90 minutes. We've caught it in the off season (bird wise) so there wasn't much to see if you are a birder. And he visitor center has been closed both times so i can't comment on it. The walk is the focus here. If the tide is out, it's a great way to explore the mud flats on the Nisqually delta. Ok, that doesn't sound enticing but it is really interesting. it's a fairly long trek along the wooden walkway all the way to the end and, even if it is a little cloudy when you start, it may be pouring and windy by the time you get back. so be prepared for wet.
If the weather is decent, pack a picnic lunch and stop at the end or along the way to enjoy the scenery.

With all last years leaves and grasses down, it is time to get out and walk the trails. IT is also fly over time so the migrating birds are in the ponds. Today included wood ducks, teals, short neck and long neck Canada geese - yes there is a difference. Also the eagle that tend to hang out near the barns was messing with the geese so there were a number of loud mass flights of birds. Also there were deer in the woods and the beavers have been busy. If you get a nice day, it is a great walk.

This wildlife refuge is superb, we liked it so much we came back
a few days later on our return home. It has several habitats, all beautifully maintained, easy walking and a variety of wildlife
makes this a must see! Can't wait to go back!

Nice and flat; would be great with a stroller;
I love the idea about walking all along the boardwalks; but we also were traveling and had valuables in the car, so we didn’t want to have to carry everything; the many signs about break-ins spooked us ; so we didn’t go on the long hike.
Seems like a great walk accessible for many.

The day we went was clear and cold, but great for a long walk out on the boardwalk. This refuge is officially named the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, and needs to be updated here

We spent three hours walking around the wildlife refuge to find that much of it is closed during hunting season as ducks and geese are hunted in this refuge. I am an avid hunter, but have strong feelings that this area, although the hunters must enter from the salt water side, must NOT allow duck or goose hunting. We saw songbirds and a mother deer with her two fawns hiding next to her in the high grass. The walkways are all well kept and it is a good walk on a day when it is not raining, after all, this is the wet Pacific Coast area, near the soviet of Seattle with a lot of misty rain all year round. This area was a farm until recently and takes in a large chunk of land. The two old farm barns are still on site and take wonderful photos. Congress people just do not turn on their puny brains when they make these rules.

Spent several hours walking the trails at a leisurely pace. Saw a few birds to be fair we were not there at prime bird watching time. We did see fish jumping and an interesting frog or two. There were also several swallows taking a rest by the restroom entrance; I guess they took the sign literally. Being from NJ and not having gophers a highlight for me was seeing the gopher holes and one of the destructive little buggers off in the distance. Would recommend a visit here to people of all ages.

This was a spur of the moment, cool, and cloudy, brisk, and slightly chilly outing. Due to the breezy weather there were only a few hardy souls out braving the elements, despite a lack of rain.
We enjoyed the various interpretive displays along the boardwalk which extends for several miles in a choice of several directions. We chose the longer route which takes you out toward the river delta, near to where the salty waters of Puget Sound meet with the Nisqually River. Besides the varieties of birds seen, there were nearby cliffs bordering the river channel, and in some spots where the board walk turned, you could see miles back up the winding river where trees and various lower shrubs and grasses nestled along its banks.
I'd recommend a windbreaker and maybe a hat or at least a hood for your adventure. If the weather is especially nice, one could bring a picnic to sit awhile and enjoy the fresh air, and a quiet dose of Mother Nature!

By the Way, the name of this refuge was recently changed to the 'Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge' to honor a local Native American who was quite active in the conservation of Salmon, and Wildlife.

Great place to bird watch. The walking trail and boardwalk is great. Bring plenty to drink if you plan to be here a while. It costs 3.00 to park here. Great place for family photos.

I got to see a sleeping owl in the middle of the day. This place has awesome walks and amazing bird watching opportunities. Many bird watchers there willing to tell you and teach you anything. A nice get away from the fast life.

You need to go early to catch the birds.....the guided tour is on Wednesdays at 8:00.
I have seen wonderful ducks and birds here, but the open expanse to Puget Sound is worth the walk.
Wear appropriate shoes and warm clothes, as there's always a stiff breeze. Bring your own water and snacks as there is no cafe.
This is a tranquil nature reserve; take a while to sit or stand and wait and watch for frogs, herons, wrens, eagles, waxwings and swallows to emerge.

Very helpful staff. The walk was great and well cared for. Lots of different frogs, birds, and more. Heard seals but didn’t see
Them (we did see
Them when we went kayaking on the other side of the nature center - just ask them how to get
There). Worth a trip!

I've walked this nature center about 4 times over the past many visits to the Olympia Area and it is so worth the peaceful walk and recharge of my enjoyment of nature. A simple walking pathway makes it easy and relaxing, while birds sing and waterfowl swim. It's not real active in mid-summer, but there is always something to explore. The history is also fascinating if you are inclined to learn about the family who ran the old farm and the long history of Indian's who once worked the marshlands that border the Puget Sound. Take a few hours to enjoy.

I went with a friend who has knee problems and we went slowly. It is such a beautiful area, it feels like strolling. There weren't many people and we got to hang out with a friendly squirrel who sat on a bench and baby owls way up in their nest.

Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is a nice area to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise by walking. If you walk all the way out to the end of the Nisqually Estuary Boardwalk Trail you will have gone 2.1 miles one way. The trail is well maintained and a large portion is a boardwalk over the mud flat/estuary. This is a very interesting area to see!

This is a spot that I could visit again and again! If you pay attention to the tides and visit at a variety of water levels you will have different viewing opportunities. At high tide we saw seals in addition to the abundant bird life. It is a level, easy walk and with the way the paths are looped you can make it as long or as short as you would like. There are also many benches throughout should you want to stop and rest. This time of year I highly recommend full rain gear, especially if you decide to go out on the long boardwalk.

This is a really beautiful place. When we visited it was not even very crowded, but it is not the best time currently to view the wildlife and the birds. For most birds winter time would probably be better. It is very beautiful in there though and the mile long boardwalk trail along the delta is a must to do walk.

I worked down at the refuge back in the 90s and it has certainly changed! I love that they changed the trails and have that long pier out into the water where you get a great view of the Tacoma Narrows.

Went to this wildlife refugee with a friend. Especially liked the boardwalk out to the water. Saw numbers of birds. Good place to take visitors.

We stopped here after some sporting events in Tacoma. I never knew the nice visitor center and long boardwalk out into the Nisqually flats existed! I was looking to get out and stretch our legs. The visitor center had a room full of paintings by kids of waterfowl. The grand prize is getting your painting on a postage stamp and scholarship money. Turns out we knew the winner! The wildlife refuge is huge and there are many trails to choose from. Easy flat gravel path or boardwalk. The boardwalk extended into the water for a couple miles. Our step counter recorded us as having gone 5 miles round trip. So peaceful and loaded with all kinds of birds and waterfowl. We saw several bald eagles. Definitely a good idea to have binoculars.

The interpretive center explains all the natural systems at work in the refuge -- the flow of water, the rain, the winds, the flora and the fauna that thrive there. It also explains how Native Americans interacted with the area, making use of the resources there without wiping out the natural wealth. A wooden walkway takes you through different habitats where you are sure to see many species of birds. When we went, tiny frogs were all over the greenery.

Long boardwalked nature trails, an estuary that has been revived, and interesting animals and birds. I've seen baby owls, and beavers.

Cold brisk day yet sunny we bundled up and went for a walk at the Billy Frank Jr National wildlife refuge. If you have not bought your national parks pass yet being able to take advantage of beautiful refuge areas such as this is a bonus. Parking the car was an adventure because everyone had the same idea we had yet we found a parking spot in less than three minutes. The visitor Center is beautiful the handy pamphlets illustrating the walk options we're clear entrails are clearly marked. Most of the trails are accessible for most members of the family we saw plenty of people with strollers, wheelchairs, Canes and walkers. It was great to see so many families and like-minded birders out for the day.

I highly recommend this wildlife refuge as it is mostly level we got to see beaver activity as well as an abundance of migratory and resident birds.

I was raised in Thurston County and spent countless hours in the Nisqually Flats area in the late 50's through today. We used to fish, hunt, hike, boat... explore the flats at least once a week for fun. Over time I noticed places being placed "off limits", "closed", etc. "for the protection of the environment" and I initially felt a twang of anger for being "shut out" from on of my favorite places. I resumed my wanderings in the refuge using the refuge provided trails, etc. and have to say I'm pleasantly surprised. The last several times I went I took our nephew that we're raising along with me. We'd walk the trails and watch for wildlife including the raccoons and otter that are running through the flats along the river. It's a great place to go and simply "get away" from the hubbub of daily life, though the roar of Interstate 5 can still be heard but if you keep your mind open and maintain your focus that roar isn't as loud as it is under normal conditions. I highly recommend making the visit a weekly thing if that's possible. If not, then at least get down there and enjoy it when you can. Parking's seemingly safe, no problems here so far and the staff is friendly. Police your trash and others trash you might find who might have been less thoughtful than you. Enjoy it. I did, do and still will. I have photos but they're not readily available for this post.

Awesome way to spend a day outdoors and that is right on the I-5 corridor. Trails and nature activities for all ages and at all levels. Scenery is amazing and it’s wonderful to have such a gem so close to both JBLM and Olympia!

Great place for a day trip with Family & Friends ! $3.00 per car , gift shop has so much Information about the Birds and other wildlife in the Area. Take a lunch & water plenty of beautiful places to stop and enjoy the outdoors , Some place are in the shade . The walk along the road to the bridge can get hot in the summer. If you have kids take a stroller , or a wagon . Once you get to the bridge , it was all worth the walk . So much to see and they provide Optical Binoculars along the bridge.Along with a place to have a seat out of the sun or rain. During some parts of the day the tide comes in and you can see fish , seals , crabs, One more thing is a must when going take your camera . The first few times i forgot ...

Just a bit out of town, this wildlife refuge is well maintained with easy walkways fitted with helpful signs. Plentiful wildlife is present if you come at the right time and are paying attention.

Pack a picnic lunch and walk it to the Twin Barn area for an added delight. Vistas abound from waterways, greenbelts, wooded forests. You will see bald eagles, water fowl, owls, and myriad birds. You may also see a beaver and other animals.

Looking for a place to take a quiet stroll? This place has been really worked on having most of nature take over. The wetlands have an abundance of birds and water mammals. There are people there in the book and museum type of building that are very familiar with the area and can point out or describe what is there before you head out.

Taking a walk along the Nisqually wildlife refuge boardwalk is a relaxing way to get those steps in while being out in nature. And if you time it right you coukd see salmon and blue herons

This is beautiful and peaceful place to take children. It was fun and the kids loved it. The trails are well taken care of and it is an easy walk.

Always something to see at NWR. Great place for a level power walk in beautiful surroundings. Quick stop off the freeway. Nice volunteer gift shop, quality gifts available. Nearly 1 mile boardwalk out over the water along McAllister Creek.

We visited for half a day. The walks and trails we easy to walk an and clearly marked. There was lots of information about where to go and what to see. The people working on the information centre were knowledgeable and helpful. I would recommend a visit here.

Very friendly and helpful employees. Saw a lot of interesting creatures. Wil definitely go back. Great customer service.

My sons and I enjoyed walking on the trails, many shaded during the hot weather. We did not see much wildlife that day but enjoyed our visit.

Nisqually refuge is a magical place to walk. No cars, no dogs. Lots of birds and other wildlife. I have been walking at the refuge for 40 years. Returning it to an estuary and adding the long boardwalk was a wonderful plan. I have been watching the changes over the years. Views of Mt Rainier over the delta are special. It is a greagt place to walk.

I can’t believe I have never been here before! It was a very pleasant walk amongst the trees and estuary. The leaves are changing and it was lovely. We met a photographer here to take my son’s senior photos and it was so nice, we spent a large part of the morning wandering the area. $3 fee and no dogs allowed.

For $3 per family of four, you can walk all over the preserve on gravel trails and wooden boardwalks. From end to end, the walk is 4.5 miles. You can shorten it as you like.

At the start, you walk through forested areas where you can see and hear birds. The next section, the longest, is on well-done board walk stretching out over shallow water. Waterbirds are visible there.

From the very end of the boardwalk you get a great view of Mt. Rainier.

Very pleasant day hike.

We visited Saturday evening and Sunday morning. Lots of walkers there Sunday morning with their families. Walks can be short or long. Lots of scenery and a variety of birds to see. It's been a while since I'd been here and I'm glad I was able to come back. It's great!

With the wet winter (wetter than normal) we have been having it's always a great hike out to Nisqually to cure cabin fever. I make it out there at least once a week to view the ever changing complexion of the landscape as well as the wildlife. I believe on Wednesdays they have a gifted birder that takes folks out (around 8am) to tour the refuge and spot birds. Check with the Visitor Center on this but it's quite an informal tour and caters to all. I enjoy timing my visits around the outgoing tides so that I can watch the myriad of birds grazing on the exposed mudflats. If you are into raptors you may spot Harrier hawks, Peregrine falcons and/or the iconic Bald eagle. The trail out to the end of the boardwalk is about 4 miles (round trip) and takes about 1-2 hours depending on your pace. I would say the trails are kid friendly but............watch 'em on the boardwalk! The visitor center is the best place to start your "adventure" here with friendly and knowledgeable volunteers. The Center is open from I believe Wednesday thru Sunday but best check for times. And, do check into their evening lecture series at the Center during the summer months.

Happy Trails!

Spent an afternoon here with our kids, age 10 and 12. Lots of places to walk through the woods, and paths out to the Sound. We saw birds, squirrels, frogs, and garter snakes while exploring. In a city full of green spaces and walking trails, this is one of the best outdoor places to go.

Spring is the absolute best season to visit. Also the Big Leaf Maple color change is beautiful in the Fall. Usually you'll have the refuge to yourself and find much more solitude in the early morning and around sunset. Weekends can be very, very crowded. Seemingly the critters don't like crowds either. I have found their presence to be far less when trails are congested with people.

8th grade end of the year trip. The needed to identify types of birds and trees on a couple of miles of trail walk. The day was actually nice and my son got to pick his group, so he picked his friends and I have to say that they're a good group of young men. We had a great time.

Spent a few hours at the Refuge- no regrets! Saw more birds than imaginable and the sounds of the ones unseen were beautiful. Great walking paths!

My husband and I go quite often to see what wildlife is out and about. We take our cameras and try to capture some of the beauty of nature. They provide enough benches to rest when needed. The wooden trail is easy to walk and there are often volunteers who can point you in the right direction for getting a great picture of that special animal you wanted to get a picture of. The only thing I do not like is too many people, young and old, are too noisy. So we try to go early .

The Refuge is easy to reach, just a bit off I-5, north of Olympia. It is on the flyway between Canada and points south, and always has great birds and waterfowl to view.

Their website is a bit clumsy, but if you want to know when specific species are likely to be seen, look under the tab PLAN YOUR VISIT for the BIRD LIST and TIDE TABLE. They have more than one bird list. You want the pdf list of all species with the chart and dates when they are usually there.

To fully enjoy the Refuge you probably need to walk a bit, perhaps a couple of miles round trip on flat and well maintained trails. But there is a pond right at the visitors’ center if you are limited in energy or mobility. Pets are not allowed for obvious reasons. To get to the best viewing count on at least a two mile round trip level walk, but much can be seen and enjoyed on a shorter walk.

If you have flexibility in your schedule, probably the peak times are at high tide, morning or evening. This is a great place to visit in Fall and Spring, because the waterfowl are migrating. Bring a camera with telephoto lens or binoculars.

I visited Thanksgiving week on a sunny day. It wasn’t crowded. Because most people on the trails are bird fanciers, I found it easy to initiate conversations with walkers, and some even pointed out special interests like a bald eagle.

The Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge does a good job on a limited budget of providing access to this environmentally sensitive area without compromising the integrity of the ecosystem. Visiting during the late fall to early spring presents a stark and rather bleak setting, with bare trees and a dearth of wildlife. This is a great visit to make with or without kids from April to September, when the refuge is teeming with birds, rabbits, and lots of critters, and foliage that has re-emerged from dormancy or is already in full bloom.

I was staying locally and took the whole day looking around the reserve - so much to see from Eagles to crabs, but to mention all the birds. A real wildlife haven. A word of warning if you are going for the day please take food and water as there no refreshments available or non that I found.

Beautiful place with a lot of informative sighs describing birds, plants, and history. We saw many water fowl, gulls Nd a bald eagle.
We were there at low tide and in July so many birds and animals were not there.
It was a great, relaxing hike.

A great way to spend a morning or afternoon! Each time I visit, I am always always surprised to see birds I have not seen before.

Beautiful area. I walk the entire boardwalk and it was a very long walk but well worth it and I'm glad I did

Been there several times. Lovely flat walk which if you do the full thing is about 4 miles. I’ve seen bald eagles and all sorts of birds; otters; coyotes; seals and deer. Highly recommended!

I brought my 4 & 7 year old here to hike with some friends. My children are true explorers & were a bit disappointed that the trail was mostly a boardwalk, so there was not much to interact with. I kept explaining that it was a wildlife refuge & the purpose was to observe all of the different birds with our binoculars & listen to the sounds. I loved it & so did my friend. But, our children were a little less impressed. Very peaceful!

A nice place to go in the winter-- just make sure to wear a lot though. We saw plenty of birds and wildlife and enjoyed the views and water. But there was one thing that disrupted our trip and the possibility of a five-star-review. While we were walking on the boardwalk, we heard gunshots, and near the shore, we saw a group of hunters. They were very close to the boardwalk, and shooting towards us, so it was a worry that they might accidentally hit the boardwalk. Also, I find it disgusting that a place dedicated to preserving wildlife would allow hunting, but that's just my opinion. Overall great place and many of the birds didn't seem afraid of us and allowed us to get close. We even saw a blue heron just a few feet away on the trail!

Gets crowded after 9 :30 am with noisy school kids during the week but before 9:30 is best time to go to see birds anyway.

Do you like to hike? Do you like variety? Do you like walks that are flat? If so, this place, which many of us, myself included until recently, passed by and thought of going there "some day." Now, after decades, I have. This is a place you might try.

On the north side of I-5 about halfway between Olympia and Tacoma, after a short drive in, one arrives at a modest parking lot. There is a modest parking fee. On a hot day, as it was during our visit, there isn't much "refuge" from the heat, so keep that in mind. Pick up a map, it will be invaluable as you explore the site.

There is a modest visitor's center, with some trails through the woods to the east and more to the north/northwest out towards the water. Much of the walks are on boardwalks, some on dirt, with wide paths. For the boardwalks that extend a ways out to the water, you're out in the open for a fair amount of time, so sun protection is advised. Periodically, there are shelters, but beware: wasps like to congregate around them for some odd reason, though they were around the roofs and not in the interior. However, we were told at the one furthest out there were a lot of them all around the structure on the day we went there, a 95 degree day, and it was a ways out there, thus we didn't go to that last one.

It’s a refuge for animals, but people can seek refuge as well. The main feature is a trail that goes beside the Nisqually River, then takes off across an estuary, part of the Nisqually delta. You can see mostly birds, but other animals will sometimes peek out. The refuge is about 30 minutes south of Tacoma and 20 minutes from Olympia.

Six of us women, amateur naturalists, visited the refuge and thoroughly enjoyed our stay. The visitor center has good information, a large parking lot, a gift shop and restrooms. The wooden boardwalks are well maintained. We saw lots of water birds and meandered our way through the estuary, riparian forests and hiking trails. Be sure to bring binoculars, a sketchbook if you like, trail mix, warm hat and gloves in cooler weather, hat and sunscreen in hot weather. Good hiking shoes are helpful. Admission is onlly $3 and well worth it.

Such a lovely place for a quite walk and community with nature. The deer are so used to people walking by they just continue to feed. I enjoy watching the ducks glide along the water and occasionally seeing a majestic bald eagle.

we lucked out with a sunny unseasonably warm day; saw lots of herons and other birds, tree frogs, a squirrel, and even seals sunbathing

What a lovely place, both informative and inspirational. The full trail is 5 miles long, but you can take shorter walks if you like. Great place to bird watch or just take a nice walk. Very flat walk, no hills!

A nice hike to the water to see the birds, hopefully otters, beavers etc. We always try and take our out of town company there. They have all seemed to enjoy it. Don't be in a hurry and allow time to enjoy.

Safe place to work. Great photo opportunities. Knowledgeable staff and volunteers. Not a place for joggers, Great place for bird watching. Great place for families of all ages.

Love birds? Love to walk on flat ground/boardwalk and see not only birds, but gorgeous old trees , streams , and wildlife? This is a very special place where many different groups got together and saved the land from being industrialized and turned it into prime wildlife habitat, and then put in an amazing boardwalk to see it from. Depending on the time of day/ year, you might see beavers, frogs, muskrats, or deer. The long boardwalk over the newly reclaimed wetland is a delightful place to enjoy many species of birds, some of them tame enough to let you walk right next to them. There are often folks with spotting scopes who will give you a close- up look at owls or other nesting birds. If the little store is open, go in and ask what people are seeing lately. You can borrow binoculars there, too. There are interesting signs along the way that tell about the birds and wildlife.
Caveats: signs at the entry say not to leave valuables in cars or trunks. We have never had a problem, but never a bad idea to be careful. No dogs or bikes (strollers okay), and no jogging/running (it scares the critters).

We come every month to walk with our friends and learn about the local wildlife. Rain or shine it is always a joy and adventure.

It's a beautiful place and very peaceful. Great for the whole family and friends. I had a wonderful time and I would go back again.

Actually better than I expected....didn't see any wildlife but still a pretty walk with a combination of paved type trail and elevated boardwalk. Good parking

It is always a pleasure taking a stroll down the easy paths and boardwalk. The seasonal migration of ducks, geese and song bird as well as the pond life makes the walk varied and interesting.

Great place to walk Very flat! Beautiful views of the surrounding area Can be very warm on a sunny day!

I first went there about 5 years ago and have loved it ever since its pretty clean and the pathways are almost always in good condition.

Whether you live close to the refuge or are from a surrounding city the wildlife refuge is a beautiful spot to explore. There are shorter handicap accessible trails as well as longer ones. It really gives you a picture of the beauty of the lower part of the Puget sound without making it hard to access and enjoy in a few short hours.

My son, who is a junior at Evergreen, had often raved about the magnificence if Nisqually. He visited quite often in his studies at Evergreen, and would come home boasting about how many eagles he had seen. After glancing at Nisqually so many times from the freeway, we finally went. The grounds are beautiful, and we'll preserved. I was overwhelmed at its vastness, and saw many eagles on my visit, along with a lot of other neat birds. I cannot wait to go back!

I have been here several times before, in multiple seasons. Fall is an awesome time. Lots of people take photos for graduation/maternity shots. I have seen bald eagles here a couple of times, last time there were two who were really close!

As Olympia's only claim to fame on the National Park System, the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge is something to enjoy and be proud of. In my opinion, in the top 10 of must-sees while in Washington's beautiful state Capitol. If you love birds, a BIG must. We bring our kids and come for the wildlife viewing. We always look for river otters but the last time we were there, we saw seals playing in the river! Didn't realize they could swim so far in from the Puget Sound. It was a very neat experience. We do the loop trail which is about a mile-ish. Very doable and lots of great boardwalk trails which are stroller friendly. Bring a jogging stroller to make your life easier if you are a mama. One tip: visit the ranger station before AND after you walk the trails! Make sure and grab the park ranger booklets for kids. They can read and follow the instructions on it- gives kids animals and plants to watch for too! Then fill them out and turn them back in afterwards for a Nisqually Wildlife ranger badge! They get to take the pledge and all. It's sweet and you might have a future park ranger in the making. All the big national parks do this but it wasn't until our last visit that they do it hear as well. Enjoy!

This is a place you can come ANY time of year, rain, sun, snow, cold, etc. Nice weather is best of course. But pretty all year round. Great place to see nature and walk around and see lots of old trees and land!

I go hear regularly when the weather is decent to nice. Always check the tides because it’s much more fun along the boardwalk when there is water. Great place for deer, ducks, hawks, eagles, seals....I’ve even seen a large coyote. I highly recommend bringing binoculars with you if you wish to get a good view. Also, lovely views of mount rainiers peak on clear days.

Lots of birds, relaxing atmosphere. Beautiful fall day, A few reader boards and an informative pamphlet help with educating about the place. A nice boardwalk to walk on. Views of the meadows, wetlands, forest, waterfowl, birds, river, etc.. gives you a quiet place in nature within a city.

Very nice educational exhibits. We enjoyed the 1 mile boardwalk loop. It was a warm day and we did not see much wildlife but had a nice walk. There are additional trails to observation points and the beach, but we kept our walk short.
We look forward to sharing this with our granddaughter who really enjoys nature. I think it can be enjoyed by all ages. We plan to return.

My wife and I are birders and enjoy the variety of birds we see. During seasons when there are fewer birds, we just enjoy walking out to the end of the boardwalk over the water, a four mile round trip from the visitor center to the end of the walkway. It was low tide on this trip and we saw heron and eagles. One eagle landed right not he railing of the walkway and gave many of us a closeup view. There were also seals with their babies basking in the grass next to the walkway. This was at high tide when we were in kayaks from our B & B but could be seen from the walkway, too. There is a $3 per car charge unless you have a Senior Access Pass. The web site would show what other passes are acceptable. The staff is only there Wed-Sunday from 8-4 in the center which has maps of the refuge and other items for sale. The bathrooms are open all hours the refuge is open which is daily. I'm not sure of opening but usually dusk is the closing time. It's worth a visit.

This place was so peaceful. The trail was only dirt/gravel for a tad bit. I brought a regular stroller instead of a jogger and it worked out perfectly. My baby and I had such a lovely time. We got to see deer, birds, fish and other creatures.

I have come in all times of the year...and every time we see something new. This time it was an owl, nesting...so many people enjoying the view. Tons of eagles and other birds as well.

Saw native plants and deer. Good marked trails and a great experience. Was a very pleasant visit. Would recommend to anyway interested in nature.

It is a great place to visit and walk the trails,every season it’s different I like Spring and Fall the best.

There is always a variety of birdlife to see and the paths and boardwalk are well maintained.
A well stocked gift shop.

Great spot to visit but would recommend you go at hi Tide. Low tide not much to see but muck? Lots of birds during migratory periods even more. The beginning you walk through marshy areas on a boardwalk and then it opens up and you’re out on the boardwalk that goes to the point and on a clear day you’re looking straight at Mount Rainier, beautiful!

It is a wonderful peaceful spot to just walk around and enjoy the nature and wildlife. We spotted many different birds and very much enjoyed our trip there.

I stop at Nisqually everytime I am driving south to Portland or beyond. It's an excellent place to enjoy with friends or family and to just wander alone, even as a single gal, is safe and super comfortable.

My husband and I are on a 2 week vacation around Washington state and stopped here on a whim. We arrived around 3pm one day and loved it so much we got up to come back at sunrise the next day. We saw many eagles - one with a squirrel catch and one perched on a tree close enough to photograph. We saw a harbor seal swimming in the river (albeit brief), many ducks and several beautiful herons. On our way out we saw a river otter playing in the pond by the nature center! We met a regular there who had just spotted and photographed a mink. Wonderful place with much to see if you look!

Great place to take a leisurely walk throughout most of the year. Check out the river or wander down to the boardwalk to the end passing waterfowl along the way. Rarely crowded even if the parking lot seems full.

Nice walk that is accessible even with young kids, but honestly besides nature scenery I didn't see many wildlife except one tiny frog and one eagle.

This is a nice meandering walk through diverse environments. Little frogs the size of crickets, birds of all kinds, deer and interesting insects (dragonflies are awesome) were all part of my walk through this preserved and scenic marshland and forest. It was a relaxing and inspiring jaunt. In the late summer blackberries are plentiful, yet flies and mosquitoes are not. It's surprising when you're coming from the southeast part of the nation. Trails and raised boardwalks, which at times brings you out over high tide (it was dry when I went) make for a great walk. This is definitely worth seeing if your an outdoors type. This hike was a nice long stroll.

Note to tourists: If you're not from the northwest you may find what is considered a "moderate" hike by the locals to be steep and strenuous by folks from flatter lands —that's been my experience anyway. "Easy" is often underestimated as well. If you have a rig to stabilize a knee or back, I would think about taking it on hikes around these parts. "Easy" trails can test your weaker joints. Sometimes it is easy and sometimes it's asking if anyone brought Advil.

So much wonderful wildlife to view. We saw soaring eagles and basking sea lions. Very well maintained and clean. Definitely recommend.

We love this area! My family regularly walks down here, especially during the season changes. The long walk out on the pier is fantastic. A good day trip for sure!

I took my son & his friend, both ages 12, to a Wednesday organized birdwatching group over spring break. They are bird enthusiasts already so this was a great way for them to see a large variety of birds. We even viewed a few coyotes. Everyone in the group were very knowledgeable & were eager to share their expertise & experiences with the boys. We had a great time.

Although this is a fee use area, our national parks pass gave us free access. The boardwalks throughout make it easy and pleasant to explore. It was a very hot day, though, so we cut our walk short.

This place is absolutely stunning! Nature at its finest! The museum was very well done and full of very good educational information! We weren't rushed, the day happened to be very sunny and beautiful and was a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors. It would be the perfect family or couple outing. Actually anyone needing a quiet place to sit and meditate would find this perfectly suitable. Many places to sit and watch wildlife. BRING BINOCULARS! Or long range photo lense for a camera so you can see and take pictures of all the varieties of birds and wildlife! They vary by season.

The experience undoubtedly varies by season and high tide, vs. low. We probably went at the worst combination and it was still enjoyable. Saw a bald eagle swoop down and grab dinner.

If you enjoy bird watching, don't miss this refuge! I t is in the Nisqually Delta near Olympia, WA.. With easy walking trails, this delta is salt water, with changing views and experiences, depending on tide, weather and seasonal conditions.

The refuge is a great place to visit for any age. It is so peaceful. Fun to walk out on the boardwalk tide in or out.

Took our first trip ALL THE WAY OUT TO THE END OF THE BOARDWALK. 2 miles out, 2 miles back. Lots of cool views of wildlife.

Birds, nests, boats, bird poop, trees, mud, water, deer, more mud, you get the picture.

Went early (815am) and the temp stayed coolish while out in the sun.

For more shade, stick with the shorter loop.

Good times for the kiddos as well.

As a volunteer at Billy Frank Junior Nisqually National Wildlife Rescue, I can say it's my favorite place in Olympia to be any day or any time of the year. Just to correct another commenter, though, we do not rent kayaks at the Refuge and there is no access to do so anywhere on the Refuge. But, there's still tons of fun to be had. Don't miss it!

Lovely place for easy walking, quiet, and views of marshes. Today midday we saw very little wildlife, only pigeons, a duck, frogs and toads, and a hawk. Perhaps there is a better time of day to come here?

One of the prettiest walks in the South Puget Sound with plentiful birdlife, excellent nature exhibits, helpful park staff and plenty of history. I usually come here three or four times a year despite the 25 mile round trip. Come early on a weekday and have the whole glorious place almost to yourself. Expect crowds on Wednesdays for the tours and on weekends.

This is my go to place when I need time to myself, I'll usually go on walks with just my dslr camera and take photos of all the beautiful nature this park has to offer. So many birds chirping! I've photographed frogs, snakes, birds, ducks and more here even people as I'm a family portrait photographer. People who go here are usually so friendly !

The Billy Frank, Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge exists today due to the hard work of grassroots activists in the late 1970s and early 80s who fought Weyerhaeuser and other corporations who wanted to expand log dumps and other industrial features in the region. Today we have this wonderful shared public space for walking and bird watching; if Weyerhaeuser had its way, this would be just another industrial eyesore, but the dykes blown out and new trails and boardwalks this is a place for families to come and take in local nature.

It is probably important to reclaim open areas just to give the atmosphere a chance to breath and recover. For that reason, I think this was a good idea. This is an public recreation area with a well developed and maintained trail. We have been there twice, both times saw very little wildlife. A couple of ducks, a dead crab, some seagulls. Mostly it is a vast area of mudflats.
The remains of a large farm are still present with outbuildings on a side trail.
It is a good way to get in your daily walk, but there are many more interesting trails in Thurston County.

Neat walk, but the only wildlife we saw was a couple snails, a blacktail deer, and a bunch of birds.

I was blown away by this vast, bird-filled reservation. I had time to kill prior to a work engagement near Olympia and saw this was in the area. It is 4 mile largely board-walked loop that brings you all the way out through saltflats and into the edge of the Puget Sound. I probably saw 20 bird species, deer, otter, and tons of seals. The boardwalk is strong, flat and an impressive feat of engineering. Way to go federal government and the Department of the Interior!

Brought the 2 year old out here and hiked all the out to the end of the pier with him in a back pack. He loved looking at all the little crabs when the tide was low. If you are going to go out to the end of the pier check the weather it’s a long way out there and there isn’t much cover. Great fun for a local nature hike!

We have drove by here so many times and never stopped. Finally thanksgiving day we did. A mere $3 is all you pay to park. It was great. So pretty. Boardwalks go everywhere. We saw lots of birds and heard frogs. After two hours we still hadn't explored everywhere. We will definitely go back. If you have binoculars make sure to bring them!

What a beautiful Refuge to visit. We saw many birds including Hawks and Bald Eagles. We also saw ducks, geese, and Blue Herons. A great place for wildlife photography.

We recently visited the Nisqually refuge with our daughter and 2 year old granddaughter. The boardwalk trail was great, it was a hot day and the canopy of trees made it very comfortable and the railings along the way made it easy to keep a 2 year old on the trail and safe. It's a beautiful walk, we didn't see seals or minks that day but it was nice none the less. The view if the sound was so relaxing I could have sat there all day!

We were able to see several birds and some miniature green frogs. $3.00 fee to park is not bad. It's an easy walk on the boardwalk.

Great anytime of the year. Bring a lunch and enjoy the many stopping points.
A heads up, leave your fur babies home as they are not allowed because of all of the wild life.

Bring your kids, bring your cameras, and explore an estuary. (It's a bit of a walk for the sedentary or children, but there's a bathroom at the entrance and another halfway along the 'long' loop.) In spring and summer, look for the garter snakes and mushrooms! In autumn and winter, watch for the berries, ducks and resident year-long herons. I love to go here for the exercise and the sights. The travel lodge has a good selection of research books, and parking is rarely difficult.

Good parking right near the entrance. Trails are wide and level. Not crowded most days and you can take long trails or short and they are varied in views.

On the I5 corridor near Olympia Washington, it has easy access. The Nisqually Delta is an amazing place. The surrounding "dike" has been breached and the old farm turned back into a salt marsh. Flocks of Geese, many varieties of fresh water and salt water Ducks, some shore birds, Eagles, Hawks, Song birds, Muskrat, Otters and much more. One of the coolist natural areas in Washington State. $3 parking fee. Well worth it.
There has been smash and grab events here. Do not leave valuables in your car.

We were pleasantly surprised to find a beautiful nature sanctuary so near to Olympia/Lacey, WA
The boardwalk was easy to walk on & well marked. There were few birds this time of year. The visitors center was informative & great for all ages.

This place looks beautiful in autumn with the changing colours of the leaves.
It is a great location for birding.
Parking is free, entrance is by self pay envelope service. The boardwalks inside the park are very well maintained, and there are information panes all over the place about the residents of this sanctuary.
The place is very quiet and beautiful, and is worth visiting.

This is a beautiful place especially if you enjoy nature and wildlife. There is about a half mile walk to the boardwalk and then another half mile to a mile walk to the end of the boardwalk. There are tons of opportunities for pictures. This place is breathtaking, tons of ducks and birds. There are some port a potties beside the gorgeous white barns to stop at before or after the boardwalk, they are clean for a park area, very surprising. If clear you can see the mountain ranges as well. I could have sat on a bench and lingered here all day if I had the time. I am trying to find the chance to make it back before I leave the area. You will not be disappointed.

I am a second grade teacher who had the opportunity to take my class to the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge. I'm glad we went. We spent half the day on the trails with a volunteer guide who had the patience to explain to my kids what they were looking at. The other half of the day was spent inside the Education center where they had lots of fun learning activities for the kids. Boxed around a nice lunch where the kids could play, it was such a great experience that we are already planning on returning with next year's class.

An absolutely wonderful experience if you want a great walk, enjoy the outdoors, like history and or wildlife! The main visitor center was closed because of construction, that did not change the beauty and tranquility of a historical site that has been given back to nature...:)

This refuge is so well maintained. The boardwalk and gravel walkways make it easy to enjoy the elegant natural setting. We walked 13,000 steps while there and enjoyed every minute of it. Lots of birds!

This is a well-maintained NWR which has a lot to offer for everyone. There are wonderful trails and boardwalks for those who don't want to venture to far from the parking lot, as well as longer trails for those who are more serious about getting out in the open. The diversity of birdlife is very impressive.

We were there on a Monday morning and all the outhouses were over flowing. Beautiful scenery, great bird watching and the walks are long. Very few benches, limited parking, and a small picnic area by the big barn.

Featuring some shaded trails and miles of sand-marsh boardwalks, this is a great place for a long, level walk with nature.

Beautiful, peaceful...lots of birds, frogs croaking, easy and level walking. Can’t wait to go back! We walked for over two hours.

We thoroughly enjoyed our time at this wildlife refuge, beautiful scenery as well as being able to see so many different migratory birds, this is truly an amazing bird sanctuary. Lots of photographic opportunities.

Nisqually Refuge is a wonderful place to go. I used to go and walk on the dikes before they were removed. Now every time I go it is wonderful to watch nature taking back he land. There are more eagles and herons and lots of other birds. The board walk is really long and great fun.

i feel like this is one of those hidden gems that i don't want too many others to know about. it's one of those places i love to go once or twice a year because the seasonal migratory birds that show up at different times are really fun to observe and the boardwalk out of the mud flat is a wonderfully relaxing way to spend some time. i have seen birders here, couples, families, etc.
the small interpretive center is also worthwhile.
this is a great place to pull off the highway and enjoy nature, regardless of age or ability.

This was a nice, peaceful walk on a LONG well-prepared boardwalk. The scenery was nice, but nothing stunning- mostly marsh. I wouldn't consider this a must-do.

Nice level walk with wooden paths. Lots of wildlife. I think it even is ok for wheelchairs. Would be nice place for picnic they have tables.

The Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, now renamed the Bill Frank Nature Preserve offers a beautiful walk on a well groomed path and boardwalks. A wooden walkway goes approximately a half mile out into the Delta, where you can observe eagles nesting, great blue herons etc. Well worth the visit.

It is a nice quiet beautiful place to take the family. We've seen Bald Eagles resting on the rocks in the river.

We live in Olympia and come here quite often. It’s beautiful any time of year. There are short and long hikes and plenty of spots to stop and have a picnic along the way.

This is a very good walking area for seniors, no concrete and boardwalk all the way. A lifetime Golden Eagle card is available inside the gift store which costs about $5. Then a senior can enter any National park along with everyone in your vechicle for life without an entry charge. Considering it costs a fortune to enter Mt. Rainer it is the only great thing about getting old. Nisqually wildlife is a great place to go for birdwatching and a little exercise.

A very nicely landscaped park near Olympia. You can see several wildlife here. Entry of $3 is very cheap. The American the Beautiful Pass is also valid.

This is the place if you want an easy walk through natural lands and over an extended boardwalk with loads of wonderful scenery. You can hear and see many varieties of birds. Peaceful. The area is also loaded with interesting history of the land and how it was farmed years ago. I highly recommend this walk. Be advised, though....you will not get solitude here. It is a popular walk.

this place is great, beautiful nature walks suitable for all ages, can't take your dogs here of course being a nature preserve but its still a great place to explore

This is a great spot to get out into nature at anytime during the year. Popular place for birders. We have come across a tree trunk full of baby raccoons. Fabulous place to walk. Well groomed paths & I feel safe. There is a day fee, or your federal park pass.

This is a truly beautiful experience to walk out over the incoming or outgoing tide. You feel so embedded with the tidal experience by being able to walk out on a completely elevated walkway, very even, no elevation walk over the tide flats of the picturesque Nisqually Delta. Beginning at the beautiful nature center with displays and explanations of the workings of the salmon runs, you can walk out amongst the towering old dairy and hay barns to begin your adventure! Lots of birds and a nesting area for Gold Finch, our state bird. Often you will see Bald Eagles! We have never been disappointed on our many trips out to the end and back! The staff at the center are always friendly and helpful. Kid friendly but no pets allowed!

This wildlife refuge offers a short hike (about 4 miles roundtrip) between two rivers, into a beautiful delta with abundant birdlife. Go when the tide is high, and cross the intertidal zone on a fabulous boardwalk! Use the mounted scope at the boardwalk's end to look for harbor seals on the beach, or (better yet) bring binoculars so you can also take a closer look at the heron colony or the resident raptors or the waterfowl and shorebirds etc. It is an important migratory stop-over on the Pacific Flyway, and sometimes resident species in Alaska (eg snowy owls and emperor geese) wander south to the delta in summer. The refuge keeps a species list, and you can get a free copy in the Visitors' Center. While you're there, be sure to learn about the important history of the area. Check the refuge website and avoid visiting during the hunting season. Though hunters aren't allowed on the refuge trails, they may on the rivers or their farther shores.

It’s great during the mid week and winter , no crowds , lots of Wildlife . Saw a baby eagle high up in a tree....

Beautiful area and pleasant walk. Love the fact there was a wooden walkway so we could venture out and enjoy the scenery.

My partner helped design this refuge, so it was a joy to get a tour through his eyes and experience. We missed the Visitors Center, so be sure to check the hours.
The walks are easy and there was so much to see. Lots of migrating birds and the bald eagles kept them all nervous, so a lot of activity. Many beautiful views, with fall colors.
Will have to come back and enjoy the boardwalk another time, as it was under construction.

We went to Nisqually on a Sunday afternoon and were surprised how crowded it was. Parking was a bit of a challenge, but we found a spot on the edge. There were a lot of families there with kids. There is a fee, but my senior national park pass covered the fee.

There are a variety of regions. There is a wooded area, a grassland/field, and the mudflats. The boardwalk goes out over the mudflats and is a nice walk with a few covered viewing areas along the way. We didn’t go to the very end. There are a couple of old barns as well. It is a pleasant way to spend the afternoon out in nature and it’s right off I-5 so very easy to access.

Great place to walk. Boardwalks took us all through the wetlands and over the water. Birds of all kinds and if you're lucky. other wildlife.

Thisf is an easy walk but not much to see. We have been twice and tide was out both times. I think this would be more interesting if the tide was in. Plenty of free parking. We didn't see birds/sealife on either trip. Just plenty of mud.

Nisqually is conveniently located, only about ten minutes from Olympia on I-5. It is absolutely gorgeous. It is worth more than one visit, as its land/waterscape changes several times per day and depending on the season. The refuge is also a great place for birding. Great blue herons, bald eagles and several other types of beautiful birds are easily spotted. One of the annual highlights is seeing the newborn owlets.

See what nature gives you. Peaceful mile walk. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge should be on your to do list for family/friends that will enjoy a day for days to talk about.

This place is absolutely stunning and a true hidden gem in the lower Puget Sound area. No dogs are allowed in order to protect the wildlife and keep the peace, but it sure makes for a wonderful walk and birdwatching. Some of the path is boardwalk through wetlands, while some is gravel, and remaining is bridged above the tidal flats. An easy walk and ok for strollers.

We've been a couple of times but enjoy going in the fall as the tide is going out. There's a boardwalk that goes out quite a way and it's worth the time to go all the way to the end so that you have a greater chance of bird watching and aquatic life.

Very beautiful rustic and natural Refugee on the Puget Sound tide Flats in the Nisqually Valley... when I was a child I had several friends that live there that there we used to take small boats and canoes over to it and mess around

How interesting to see how the river estuary is recovering since dike removal. The board walks make for easy walking, birdwatching or just admiring the colors of the algae.

The Nisqually Wildlife Refuge is a great way to get outdoors, see plenty of birds and learn about the different species, explore nature and walk for as little or as long as you like. It is very accessible, with boardwalk trails as well as flat gravel ones for those who want a more extensive hike. There are plenty of opportunities to photograph wildlife as well as strategic spots to stop and rest or picnic. Easy on/off from the freeway and for only $3.00 a super family bargain.

What a wonderful place to view and immerse yourself in the regions natural wildlife. So many photo opportunities. Great place to stroll along, get back to nature and be peaceful. Leave your worries behind and enjoy this wonderful refuge.

If you have a few hours free and are either in Tacoma or Olympia WA this is the place to spend it. The Nisqually refuge and visitors center is the place to come if you love nature and especially birding. It has miles of winding trails and boardwalk that takes in river and Puget Sound coastal areas....birds of all kinds and especially waterfowl are abundant.

beautiful easy walk, a little tough for parking on weekends sometimes. Can be a little cold with the wind but otherwise pretty easy walk.

If you enjoy hiking or are a birder, Nisqually is great. It's easy to access off the highway, has a lot of trail to hike and is set up to attract a lot of wildlife, oh, and it's a cheap trip.

Take note: Birds are fickle and you are likely to notice a big difference in what you see depending on time of year. We were there in February a few years back and saw dozens of Bald Eagles, Hawks and other raptors, where during our recent trip, in July, we saw only some little song birds and one impressive toad.

A lot of trails, plenty to see, and only $3! We spent the day walking along the water, looking at birds, and saw some seals. I love spending a nice afternoon/weekend day here.

Moved to Olympia this year, and we've visited Nisqually six times between March-September. Each time is a different experience, depending upon weather, tides and seasons. Amazing wildlife each time, including numerous bird species. Herons, bald eagles, cormorants, loons, seals, rabbits. The long boardwalk crosses the tidal flats. A great place for a peaceful and enchanting walk.

Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is a gem, hidden just off of I-5, north of Olympia WA. Wooden boardwalks allow for ease of access in this partially wooded, partially open air bird and wildlife arena.

Just the place to add to your life bird list and your tree list as well, the Refuge invites easy ambles and the peace of nature. Slow moving river, side creeks, saltwater estuaries, and wetlands add water elements while historic barns lend a sense of place making.

Go solo or with family or friends. Little ones also love the adventure of discovery in this protected area!

I love this place for walking. It is a place I feel safe walking alone. The wooden paths can be a little slippery when wet, but otherwise it is pretty carefree. The wildlife puts on quite a show and it is a nice break from urban life. There are lots of signs that give information about the birds and their habitat. You can burn calories and learn something at the same time...what more could you ask for?!!

We had a nice afternoon walk on the boardwalk path however, we saw very little wildlife. We only saw one deer a couple of ducks & a tree frog. It was a beautiful area to get out for a walk though.

Beautifully place, back to nature the right way,we go twice a year,bring out off state family,no. More

This is a nice place to take a stroll and it is not strenuous. You will see many species of birds including blue herons . The people at the ranger station are very informative and pleasant. There is plenty of parking space available.There are onsite restrooms and it is also possible to take a picnic.There are tables along the way or you can just lay out a blanket and spread your feast out on it and enjoy.

I have been here at least 100 times in the last 30 years. This is a good place to go to if you live nearby or just passing through. Easy to get to off I-5 and you can walk on varied trails from 15 minutes to 3 hours in duration. I avoid coming here during duck hunting season which is October until March ... hearing the constant gun fire is difficult especially because this location is a wildlife refuge.

The Nisqually Wildlife refuge recently was changed to Billy Frank Jr. wildlife refuge. Is a great view of wildlife mostly wild and exotic birds. The entrance fee is 3$ you pay yourself and hold onto a receipt. The birds that migrate through here are beautiful and rare. While the park is small it's preservation is truly amazing. The small walk around the park is refreshing and this is one of my favorite places in the world.

Such a lovely area to spend a few hours walking on the dirt paths, gravel paths, and lovely boardwalks - while taking in the sky, birds, landscape and wetlands. We saw osprey, deer, heron, snake, lot's of birds and ducks and there were plenty of interpretive signs along the way. Its only $3 for a group of 4 (super affordable for such a beautiful area). If you live in the NW and have not stopped in at this National Wildlife Refuge - then give it a go!

I've known about this place but never visited until I knew relatives were showing up who would like this. Went first day alone to check it out....It covers the entire delta where the Nisqually River completes its 78 mile run from a glacier on Mt. Rainier to Puget Sound salt water. It had to be educational....ADA accessible...and visible wildlife would be a bonus. It scored on all elements. There is a 1 mile boardwalk loop trail with three 400ft. extensions....one each for: Riparian Forest....Nisqually River.... and the remains of the farm that had occupied the land until the earthworks dikes were removed in the 1970s.
The next day I met the relatives from NC there and it was a hit. We did the one mile loop, and soaked up the visitor center (Closed Monday)
Today (Monday) I saw it again with my 13 yo grandson and we added the 2+ mile added gravel and boardwalk out into Puget Sound. So, did nearly 5 miles today. He loved it. I was puffing by the end!
So, about wildlife....in the 3 visits we saw multiple varieties of frogs from largish with big amber eyes to small tree frogs the size of the end of my finger. Bull frogs were heard. River otter, muskrat, Beautiful black and white striped borer insects....and birds...this place is heaven for birdwatchers who show up with ginormous cameras on tripods...and smiles on their faces
Believe me I'll be back after Ive rested up a bit!

This is an incredible place. The boardwalk takes you over the delta, where it angles there is a shelter, a blind that allows you to view the wildlife as takes you over the delta. The first time I came, seals were nestled on one of the islands. The second time, my group was told that orcas feed their babies here going without food for months and preparing their little ones for the journey north.

The Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is so much more than a nice hike or a place to birdwatch. Here are a few of the things we learned which were highlights for us:

The Nisqually Refuge is a delta estuary. Several creeks flow into the southern end of the Puget sound and this means that there are a great variety of landforms, plant life, and wildlife. In our walk, we saw marshes, grasslands, mudflats, and forests. The terrain changes quickly, so you can see a lot on a short walk! The estuary has been restored, and the restoration project has been important in Puget Sound's recovery.

Local History: The area that is now the Nisqually Refuge encompasses 1,000 acres that used to be a working farm. Of course, the native peoples lived on the land before that. The history of people and their stewardship over the land is very important! Be sure to stop by the Visitor's Center to learn more.

Wildlife: Different species are more visible at different times of year but it is reported that over 300 species of birds, mammals, fish, reptiles, and amphibians live in the Refuge. There is always something to see. Along the paths, there are information markers to help visitors identify plants and wildlife. We learned about four different types of seagulls!

The boardwalks are very well maintained and accessible. We saw both strollers and wheelchairs out and about! If you want to watch birds, be sure to bring your binoculars. A couple lent us theirs and we saw a bald eagle at the top of a tree!

There is a very small $3,00 fee that covers entrance for up to four people. The site is extremely affordable and such a delight to visit. Bring a picnic and enjoy! We had no idea what to expect and we thrilled with our first visit.