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Reminder: Collection of plants, animals, and artifacts including mushrooms is prohibited on national wildlife refuges.
 

Metal salmon designed by Jeff Anderson swim through the treesSalmon Art Interpretive Trail

The Salmon Art Interpretive Trail was created to commemorate the restoration of a small stream near Refuge Headquarters. Historically, this small stream was home to sea-run cutthroat trout, A 20' salmon skeleton designed by Amy Lambert marks the trail entrancechum salmon, and many other species. Approximately seventy years ago, a tide gate was installed which blocked access to the stream for fish returning to spawn. About the same time, a dam was installed near the headwaters which prevented gravel from washing downstream. This gravel was needed by many species as spawning beds.

In 1997, the Willapa Bay Fisheries Enhancement Group began working with the Refuge to restore the stream. After the tide gate and dam were removed, natural stream processes resumed. Dozens of large logs were placed in the stream near the headwaters to create a natural habitat of deep pools interspersed with tiny waterfalls for cutthroat trout and other species.

Since the original runs of salmon were now extinct, eggs and fish were obtained from a nearby hatchery and introduced to the stream. Today, the refuge contains a self-sustaining chum salmon run as well as many cutthroat trout, amphibians and other species.

Chum salmon return to spawnVisitors to the stream can now observe the spawning salmon from a curving ADA accessible boardwalk each fall. Artwork located along the boardwalk tells the story of the stream and the many species who live there. Students from the University of Washington Public Arts Program designed, constructed, and installed the artwork for the trail under the direction of professors John Young, Ian Robertson, and Jim Nicholls.

In 2005, the Youth Conservation Corp constructed an additional 2/3 mile loop hiking trail. The "Cutthroat Climb" leads hikers up the valley, near the ridgeline, and to the headwaters of the stream. Although fairly short, this trail can be a real workout!

 

 

Trail hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30am to 4:00pm. Closed weekends and federal holidays.

 

 

REMINDER: No dogs are permitted on the refuge, including trails and parking lots. For the protection of wildlife and the enjoyment of other visitors, please leave your pets at home. Certified aid dogs are welcome.

 

Willapa NWR Complex Home
3888 SR 101, Ilwaco, WA 98624
360-484-3482

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