With over 3,000 acres of salt and freshwater grasslands, marshes and wetlands, the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge located just north of Olympia, Washington is bird-lover’s and nature photographer’s haven. Established in 1974, the reserve offers natural protection for thousands of migratory birds along the southern bays of the Puget Sound.
The refuge offers beautiful wood-plank trails through the marshes along with a long meandering boardwalk that takes you out into the middle of the bay during high tide. Pull off of Interstate 5 anytime of the year (winter can be exceptionally nice) to explore the stunning wildlife and natural habitat that lives intertwined with the blue lapping sound waters.
Plus it is worth a stop just to snap some photos in this picturesque inlet.
Look out over the bay from the boardwalk. Anderson Island on the horizon.
