Coronavirus (COVID-19) Notice
Although most refuge lands and outdoor spaces have remained open for the public to enjoy,
we ask that you do the following:
- Check local conditions on this website and call ahead for current information. Operations vary based on local public health conditions.
-
Face masks are required in all federal buildings and on all federal lands.
- Maintain a safe distance between yourself and other groups.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
- Most importantly, stay home if you feel sick
-
Wildflower Galleries
It may be arid, but the Monument comes alive in the spring with wildflowers. Here are some of our most colorful.
Wildflower Galleries
-
Hanford Bats
Legend. Myths. Folklore. Bats figure prominently in our primal fears, the things that scare us in the chill dark of the night. Are we silly!
Bats
-
-
Insects
The Monument is paradise for entomologists. Especially lepidopterans. You have to find out what that means.
Insects
-
Elk
What do visitors want to see? The White Bluffs, of course. Coyotes, deer and birds have their fans. But everyone wants to see the massive elk found here.
Elk
Be Aware
There is a significant amount of confusion regarding the last few days of hunting on the refuge. We’ve summarized it for you.
Hunting Season Summary
The Monument may be the only national wildlife refuge in the country that has an obligation to not only protect living wildlife, but also that long since dead.
Paleontology
The history and cultural heritage of Hanford would fill several web sites. We've pulled together just a taste of what's to be discovered here.
Cultural Resources
Enjoying Wildlife
Want to see more animals on your trip to the Hanford Reach National Monument? Here are some tips from the "experts."
Watching Wildlife
About the Complex
Hanford Reach National Monument is managed as part of the Mid-Columbia River National Wildlife Refuge Complex.
Read more about the complex
About the NWRS
The National Wildlife Refuge System, within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, manages a national network of lands and waters set aside to conserve America's fish, wildlife, and plants.
Learn more about the NWRS
Page Photo Credits – Kangaroo Rat - Chuck & Grace Bartlett, Globe-mallow - Gordon Warrick, Little Brown Myotis - Ann Froschauer/FWS, Sage Thrasher- Tim Lenz, Monarch Butterfly - Jane Abel, Elk - Walmart, Elk In Snow - Cathy Haglund, Saddle Mountains - Rich Steele, Pale Evening Primrose - Mark Turner
Last Updated: Jan 25, 2021