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Recreation Trails

Oaks to Wetlands Trail

The Oaks to Wetlands trail is located on the Carty Unit of the Refuge. This trail is open year-round during daylight hours. The trail has several internal loops offering hiking distances of less than a mile to over 2 miles. The trail crosses uneven terrain as it transects oak woodlands, seeps, fir forests, and basalt outcroppings. The trail changes significantly with the seasons. From the basalt knolls wintering waterfowl, particularly swans, can be observed in multiple locations. Early spring is excellent for wildflowers and migrating songbirds. Summers activities at the Plankhouse offer visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the natural and cultural history of the Refuge. The trail is graced by many magnicient Oregon white oaks that have weathered the centuries. This link offers a printable map of the Oaks to Wetland Trail. The northern-most loop of the Oaks to Wetland Trail is located on private property. The land owner has generously allowed the Refuge to maintain a trail during the summer months. Please respect the seasonal signage and trail closure on the north end of the trail from October 1 to February 29. This trail was recognized as a National Recreation Trail in 2005 by the Department of Interior. Note: fall tours birding tours planned for this trail please visit: Special Events.

Kiwa Trail

The Kiwa Trail on the River 'S' Unit and can be reached by following the Auto Tour Route past the observation blind. The Kiwa Trial is open from May 1 to September 30 during daylight hours. The season closure is intended to reduce disturbance to wintering waterfowl the congregate on the River 'S' Unit during the winter months. The trail offers a generally level grade and is constructed of compacted gravel and boardwalks. The trail is well suited for wheelchairs, wheeled walkers, and baby strollers. The Kiwa Trail is adjacent to Oregon ash stands, sloughs, seasonal wetlands, and grasslands. The Oregon ash trees are excellent for cavity nesting birds such as woodpeckers, white-breasted nuthatches, swallows, chickadees, and wrens. The forests additionally attract warblers, wood-pewees, waxwings, and grosbeaks. Watch the sloughs for wood ducks, herons, and turtles. Close examination of the wetlands may reveal bitterns, rails, and shorbirds. This link offers a printable map of the Kiwa Trail and River 'S' Unit. Note: fall tours birding tours planned for this trail please visit: Special Events.

Follow these links to learn more about recreation opportunities on the Refuge:

Special Events

General Recreation Map

Wildlife Observation

Waterfowl Hunting

Trails

Auto Tour Route

Plankhouse & Cultural Resources

Education

Photography

Fishing