Two children looking at a herd of elk from the bed of a carriage in a snowy landscape with mountains in the background

Wildlife observation and photography are encouraged on refuge trails and along the beach during daylight hours.  Hundreds of species of plants, birds, and mammals are found on Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge.  Each season brings a different cast of characters.  Spring and fall are the best times to view and photograph wildlife, and the spring brings spectacular wildflower blooms in the dunes.  Please stay on the trails at all times.