Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers many ranger and volunteer-led programs throughout the year. Several programs have multiple events throughout the year or season.
Blue Goose Wildlife Tram
The Blue Goose Wildlife Tram is a recurring program, conducted in partnership with the refuge's neighbor, False Cape State Park. Tram tours take participants on a ride through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park, with opportunities to discuss wildlife, history and management of the two areas. Reservations are required and taken by False Cape State Park by calling (757)426-7128. The fee for the tram is $8.00 per person. Please note that from April 1 - October 31 there is also a $5.00 per vehicle entrance fee to the wildlife refuge, payable by cash or check, unless you have an America the Beautiful Pass, Federal Duck Stamp or Refuge Annual Pass.
Tram Schedule:
April 1 - Memorial Day: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, leaving at 9:00am, returning at 1:00pm
Memorial Day - Labor Day: Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, leaving at 9:00am, returning at 1:00pm
Labor Day - October 31: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, leaving at 9:00am, returning at 1:00pm
November 2023 - March 2024: Winter trips leave at 1:00pm and return at 5:00pm. There is no entrance fee to the wildlife refuge at this time but the $8/person tour fee applies and is paid to False Cape State Park.
2023 - 2024 Winter Tram Dates
• November 6, 19, 25
• December 3, 17, 30
• January 7, 21
• February 18, 24
• March 3, 17, 30
Winter Waterfowl Walks
Winter is one of the best times of the year for wildlife viewing at Back Bay NWR. The wildlife refuge was created to provide habitat for ducks, geese and swans that migrate to the area in the winter months.
During our Winter Waterfowl Walk series we walk the Raptor Trail, following along the edge of Back Bay and through shrubby marsh vegetation, looking and listening for the season's wildlife. Binoculars are recommended and we do have pairs to share! Call (757)301-7329 ext.3106 to sign up for one or more dates.
2023 - 2024 Winter Waterfowl Walk Dates
• December 29 at 9:00am
• December 30 at 9:00am
• January 7 at 10:00am
• February 18 at 10:00am
Snakes, Frogs and Turtles
Spring and fall offer great opportunities to view reptiles and amphibians at the wildlife refuge. During these seasons a special program all about these fun and interesting animals is led by one of the refuge’s wonderful volunteers. After an interactive introduction on the background of herps, as reptiles and amphibians are often called, we take a one-mile walk along the Raptor Trail. Participants are an active part of this program to help spot green tree frogs, camouflaged green snakes, turtles hiding under the surface of the water and much more. Children and families are welcome! There is no fee for the program but there is a $5.00 per vehicle entrance fee to the wildlife refuge, unless you have an America the Beautiful Pass, Federal Duck Stamp or Refuge Annual Pass. Call (757)301-7329 ext.3106 to sign up.
No upcoming dates at this time.
