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National Natural Landmark
Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
Washington’s Largest Undisturbed Estuary
Scale
4,529.21 Acres
Renamed (2015)
Honoring Billy Frank Jr.
Restoration
Largest in PNW (2009)
Birds
275+ Migratory Species
Visitors
380,000+ in 2024
Biodiversity
300+ Wildlife Species
Roots
"People of the Grass"
Near
4M People within 100mi
History
Medicine Creek Treaty
Education
8,000 Students/Year
5 Reasons to Visit
- Estuary Boardwalk: 1-mile walk over water (high tide) or mudflats (low tide).
- 360° Vistas: Panoramas of Mt. Rainier, Olympics, and McAllister Creek.
- "Last Unspoiled" Delta: The last major unspoiled estuary in Puget Sound.
- Wildlife Viewing: World-class photos of raptors, seals, otters, and salmon.
- Unmatched Accessibility: Flat trails (10ft gain) perfect for wheelchairs/strollers.
5 Pro Tips
- Save Guide Offline: Cell service is spotty. Download maps/PDF now.
- Check the Tide: Scenery changes completely between high/low tide.
- Bring Binoculars: Essential for viewing ducks and owls.
- Restricted List: No pets, jogging, bikes, or drones allowed.
- Closures: Seasonal trail closures Oct–Jan (hunting season).
The Wildlife of Nisqually
