Popular Family Hikes and Less-Crowded Alternatives Nearby
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Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge.
Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge and Woodard Bay Conservation Area
The wonderful treasure commonly called the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge sits 10 miles outside of Olympia and offers something for everyone. It's got miles of paved paths and boardwalks, a visitor center and a small playground. It’s also a birdwatcher’s paradise. Do allow some time for the playground and the visitor center (check open hours). Your kids may enjoy becoming junior conservation managers, a free program similar to the National Parks Junior Ranger program. They can also borrow binoculars to use along the walk, and there are several viewpoints with binoculars. My boys love walking along the boardwalks and seeing who can spot the most eagles and herons.
Best for: This is an excellent all-ages outing, and it is nice most seasons of the year. On chilly days the wind coming off the water can be cold, and the boardwalk can get slick. Note that dogs are not allowed here.
Finding it: The refuge is right off I-5 about 22 miles south of Tacoma and 10 miles northeast of Olympia. From I-5 south take exit 114. Make a right at the traffic light, go under the freeway and follow signs to the refuge. Entry is $3 for four adults.
Beat-the-crowds alternative: Woodard Bay Conservation Area
Woodard Bay, a wildlife-rich conservation area near Olympia, includes miles of shoreline, wetlands and forests. The bay was the site of a former log dump, and interpretive signage explains the importance of the area, from its beginning as a place where Native tribes gathered shellfish to its later role in the logging industry. Today, it’s primarily home to herons, seals and bats. The first part of the main trail is paved, and the remainder is gravel. All of it would be suitable for a sturdy stroller. You can head straight for the water, or take a loop trail of about a mile in the forest to your left. It’s flat, though there are a few stairs and large roots.
Best for: Great for all ages. My boys loved looking at the giant moss-covered trees on the forest walk and exploring the beach. This spot is just five minutes from Burfoot County Park, a beachfront spot worth a visit.
Finding it: From I-5 southbound take exit 109 towards Sleater-Kinney Road. Make a right at the light at the bottom of the exit. Just past the Safeway, make a right at the light at Sleater-Kinnery Road Northeast. The name of the road will change to 56th Avenue Northeast. Continue straight until you reach a T, where you will want to turn right onto Shincke Road Northeast. Turn to the left as the road becomes Woodard Bay Northeast. Cross a bridge and look for parking on your right. There is a newly installed concrete wall. Note that you will see a parking lot for the Chehalis West Trail shortly before you find the lot for Woodard Bay. You will need a Discover Pass to park.
