We had to take a Saturday trip to Portland Oregon, on business recently, and since it was the boss's gas(!!) I decided we were close enough to take a quick trip into Washington to see if all the hub-bub was warranted about Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. And let me tell you , it was definitely something to brag on!
After a couple side trips due to a poorly maintained memory, we finally stopped, bought a map and asked a local where I might find Ridgefield. From Portland "drive north on I-5 until you see the sign that says Ridgefield NWR" And it is really that simple! The best way for you to get a preview of this amazing place is to first visit;
Friends of Ridgefield
This is a great site with all the information you need to plan a trip to the refuge. We will be going back for a two day visit soon, but a day trip is not going to disappoint you! Here a a few of the shots I took during our visit.
The marsh as you start the auto tour loop.
One of the beautiful backwater sloughs.
A few of the natives, there are close to a go-zillion
western pond turtles and bull frogs at the refuge!
How the heck???
Great Blue Heron
A Wood Duck admiring his reflection!
Cinnamon Teals were abundant this day.
A Marsh Wren sang us a tune.
Male Ruddy Duck
Yellow Headed Blackbirds kept their distance.
A first bird for us were some Gadwalls.
A lovely pair of Wood Ducks!
The Red Wing Balckbirds were everywhere!
A juvenile Red Wing.
We had a great time at Ridgefield, the staff was friendly, it was a beautiful day and the birds were plentiful! I hope you get the chance to visit here someday so you can see for yourself this very much wild place near the big city! Keep in mind, READ THE SIGNS! In winter migration months, you are restricted to your vehicle, in the spring and summer there are trails to walk and hike, but there are still areas that are off limits. There is a $3.00 fee to drive the auto tour route and there is an recorded audible portable tour guide available during the hours that the entry booth is open.
