Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge

Directions: Located at the western city limits of Hoquiam, Washington. Take State Highway 109 to Paulson Road, turn S, then W to parking areas adjacent to Bowerman Field airport.

Primary Wildlife: Each spring, over 1 million shorebirds (principally western sandpipers) pass through the Grays Harbor area, presenting a major spectacle in mid-April. Peregrine falcons and merlins are also seen at that time. Throughout the year, a wide variety of wildlife is present on the tidal flats, in the salt marshes, and in adjacent upland habitat.

Habitat: When fully acquired, approximately 1,800 acres of tidal flats, salt marsh, freshwater ponds, and deciduous woodland.

Recreation and Education: Currently undeveloped. A visitor center, exhibits, and boardwalks are planned for interpretation and education. Marked routes lead to good wildlife viewing and photography locations.

Special Note: Much of the land within refuge boundaries is still owned by the Port of Grays Harbor. Please respect their rights, and pay attention to signing and printed information. The best shorebird viewing occurs in the hour before and the hour after high tide. Consult local tide tables, or contact the Nisqually refuges when planning trips.

c/o Nisqually NWR Complex
100 Brown Farm Road
Olympia, WA 98506
(206) 753 9467


Published: 29 Apr 2002 | Last Updated: 13 Sep 2011
Details mentioned in this article were accurate at the time of publication

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