King Tide Walk at Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually Wildlife Refuge
Details
The December King Tides arrive in Olympia this weekend pushing Puget Sound up over 16.5 feet (that’s a lot of water) so how about a nice easy walk to see all that water?
Join me for an relaxed 4–4.5 mile morning walk through the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually Wildlife Refuge as most of it submerges under the high tide. I’m not sure what we will see—lots of birds sure—maybe some seals, and deer? You will want to bring binoculars if you have them, and a mug or Thermos of your favorite hot beverage.
Kids are welcome.
The refuge opens at sunrise—7:43 a.m. Sunday—and the highest point of the tide will be right around 8:10 a.m. so the plan will be to meet at the front of the visitor center by 8 a.m. so we can start our walk towards to boardwalk promptly at 8 a.m. and catch as much of the high tide as we can. I expect we will be back at the parking lot no later than 9:45 a.m.—in plenty of time to check out the visitor center and gift shop (it opens at 9 a.m.) Restrooms should be open and available at the visitor center.
Parking is $3 (cash or check—no credit cards). And, yes, you can also use your valid National Parks Pass (“Interagency” pass) but your Discover Pass isn’t valid.
Please note: Dogs (pets or comfort animals) are not allowed at the refuge—not even in cars in the parking lot. There are narrow exceptions for well-trained service dogs, but it is likely that refuge staff will ask if you show up with a dog.
You can check out all the details of the walk on AllTrails:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/nisqually-estuary-boardwalk-and-twin-barns-trail
And at the Washington Trails Association (WTA):
https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/nisqually-nwr
A week out, the forecast calls for a chance of rain with temps in the low to mid 40s—so rain gear and some warm layers (thick fluffy socks!) would be appropriate and, as there’s a good chance your feet will get wet, waterproof shoes or boots. Heavy rain or really nasty weather will cancel and I will make that decision by 6 p.m. Saturday. You can check the current forecast here:
https://www.accuweather.com/en/us/dupont/98327/weather-forecast/2084370
I live on Tumwater Hill and am happy to offer a ride to anyone who lives nearby.
Please note: I’m not a birder or particularly good at recognizing and naming plants and animals—so if you have those skills don’t be shy about sharing them!