Plan Your Visit

Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge provides recreation opportunities to thousands of visitors every year. Shorebirds migrating from as far south as Argentina stop to rest and feed in Grays Harbor Estuary every spring. The estuary's open mudflats provide ample food for the migrants and great wildlife viewing opportunities for the public. Whether birding, practicing photography, or participating in educational programs, visitors enjoy viewing the unique ecosystems and diverse wildlife. Regulation of recreation activities allows for public enjoyment of the refuge while still protecting the wildlife and habitats.

Hours

The Refuge trail (called the Sandpiper Trail) is open everyday from sunrise to sunset. Many visitors, especially birders, have found that it is best to plan a visit to the Refuge according to the tides. Many of the bird species present will be most visible within two hours of high tide.

Tide Charts (Sunrise and sunset times at Grays Harbor can be found by utilizing the "text" view option on these tide charts).

Directions

From Hoquiam, head west on Hwy 109, then turn left on Paulson Road and right on Airport Way.

Parking

Limited parking is available across from Lana's Hangar Cafe on Airport Way. Do not park on the blacktop road west of the gate.

Fees

There is no fee to visit the Refuge.

For More Information

Write or call:
Grays Harbor National Wildlife Refuge
c/o Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge
100 Brown Farm Road
Olympia, WA 98516
Phone: (360) 753-9467

Hoquiam area services write or call:

Grays Harbor Chamber of Commerce
506 Duffy Street
Aberdeen, WA 98520
Phone: (360) 532-1924

Grays Harbor Shorebird Festival
Phone: 1-800-303-8498