Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge
An urban oasis offering serene walking trails and abundant wildlife, perfect for birdwatching and nature exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak wildlife activity
Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge
Best Time
Peak wildlife activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An urban oasis offering serene walking trails and abundant wildlife, perfect for birdwatching and nature exploration.
"Fabulous gem away from the crowds. Walk and enjoy the beautiful landscape and ponds."
Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Essential for spotting birds and small critters in their natural habitat.
Sturdy Walking Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Recommended for comfortable exploration of the trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wetland Trails
Main walking paths
Explore serene paths through wetlands, offering abundant wildlife and native plant sightings.
Birdwatching Opportunities
Home to nearly 200 bird species, it's a prime spot for birdwatchers, especially shorebirds.
Visitor Center & Nature Observatory
Learn about local ecosystems and find unique items in the shop; the nature observatory is a must-see.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Times for Wildlife Viewing
+1Visitor Center & Trail Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Essential for spotting birds and small critters in their natural habitat.
Sturdy Walking Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Recommended for comfortable exploration of the trails.
Sun Protection :sun_with_face:
Much of the path lacks shade; wear sunscreen, a hat, and bring water.
No Pets or Bikes :no_entry_sign:
This is a nature preserve; pets, bikes, and jogging are not allowed on main trails.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Essential for spotting birds and small critters in their natural habitat.
Sturdy Walking Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Recommended for comfortable exploration of the trails.
Sun Protection :sun_with_face:
Much of the path lacks shade; wear sunscreen, a hat, and bring water.
No Pets or Bikes :no_entry_sign:
This is a nature preserve; pets, bikes, and jogging are not allowed on main trails.
Check Visitor Center Hours :information_desk:
Get maps and learn about the refuge from friendly staff and volunteers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge as a serene gem offering beautiful walking trails and abundant wildlife, especially birds. The visitor center is highlighted for its excellent information and friendly staff. It's a peaceful escape from urban bustle, though some note the lack of shade on certain paths and the restrictions on pets and jogging.
"We made a trip to this wildlife refuge for our anniversary. Lovely walking trails with plenty of well spaced benches and vista points. We walked a 2 mile loop beside the river and through the woods. Bring your binoculars to catch a glimpse of some of the birds in the area. Plenty of parking."
Patti J S
"Fabulous gem away from the crowds. Walk and enjoy the beautiful landscape and ponds. You will see several types of birds if you stay quiet and respect their habitat. The visitor center is excellent and includes a shop with both thoughtful and fun items."
Susan Stienstra
"First, Bring binoculars if you have them; it makes it easier to see the smal pond critters. So much to see this time of year May, 2025. It's a pretty serene walk with native habitat growth and wildlife. Stopped into the visitor's center and bought a couple of items, there's something for all ages. The staff were very friendly."
Darlene Hilliard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The refuge is conveniently located off 99W in Sherwood, Oregon. It offers sufficient parking at the trailhead and visitor center.
While specific public transport routes are not detailed in user content, driving is the primary method of access. Check local transit schedules for options to Sherwood.
The address is 19255 SW Pacific Hwy, Sherwood, OR, 97140. It's easily accessible from Highway 99W.
Entry to the refuge and its trails is generally free. Parking is also complimentary.
While kayaking and paddleboarding are possible on the Tualatin River, specific access points and routes from the refuge might require checking with local resources like Tualatin River Keepers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Park hours are sunrise to sunset in fall, winter, and spring. Summer hours extend to 8 PM. The visitor center hours may vary.
No tickets are required for entry to the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge. Access to the trails and grounds is free.
Yes, pets, bicycles, and jogging are not permitted on the main trails. Stick to walking and respect the wildlife habitat.
Yes, the refuge is open year-round. While the main walking paths have seasonal access (May-Sept), gravel access roads are available throughout the year.
Absolutely! The visitor center is a great resource for information, maps, and often has educational programs. It also features a shop.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The refuge offers easy walking trails, including a 2-mile loop beside the river and through woods, as well as gravel access roads.
You can see nearly 200 species of birds, 50 species of mammals, and 25 species of reptiles and amphibians. Keep an eye out for Killdeer and various shorebirds.
Yes, it's an excellent spot for birdwatching, with numerous species recorded. Bring binoculars to enhance your experience. +1
Restrooms are available at the trailhead and the visitor information center.
While specific accessibility details aren't widely shared, the mention of 'easy hiking trails' suggests some level of accessibility. It's best to contact the refuge directly for detailed information.
📸 📸 Photography
The wetland trails offer beautiful landscapes, and the early morning or late afternoon light is ideal for capturing wildlife and flora.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for wildlife photography, especially for birds. A wide-angle lens can capture the scenic landscapes.
General rules about respecting wildlife and staying on trails apply. Avoid disturbing the animals or their habitats for the sake of a photo.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Wildlife Refuges to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide the best lighting for photography, enhancing colors and creating dramatic shadows.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider participating in any Jr. Ranger programs that might be available, as these are often designed to make learning fun for younger visitors. Remember to pack essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and hats, as some areas have limited shade. While pets aren't allowed, the abundance of nature provides plenty of entertainment.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
+1Bring your binoculars and camera to fully appreciate the diverse avian population, including shorebirds and migratory species. The trails offer varied landscapes, from open wetlands to riparian forests, providing different viewing experiences. The visitor center is an excellent resource for identifying species and learning about the refuge's conservation mission.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge
+1The refuge is managed to protect and restore natural habitats, offering visitors a chance to experience nature within a suburban setting. Its wetlands are vital for migratory birds, making it a key stopover point on their journeys. The refuge's existence highlights the importance of preserving natural spaces even in developed areas.
Visitors can explore various trails that wind through different ecosystems, from open wetlands to shaded forests. The Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center serves as an educational hub, providing insights into the local flora and fauna and the conservation efforts underway. It's a place where the community can connect with nature and learn about its importance.
Navigating the Trails and Wildlife Viewing
Wildlife viewing is a primary draw, with birdwatching being particularly rewarding. The diverse habitats attract a wide array of avian species, including shorebirds and migratory birds. To maximize your chances of spotting wildlife, it's recommended to visit during the early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active. Bringing binoculars is essential for a closer look at the smaller creatures and distant birds.
It's important to adhere to the refuge's guidelines to protect the delicate ecosystem. No pets, bicycles, or jogging are allowed on the main trails to minimize disturbance to wildlife. Visitors are encouraged to stay on marked paths and maintain a quiet presence to avoid scaring animals.
+1
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