3 min
Overview
This refuge, established in 1992, is composed of various parcels of land along the Tualatin River floodplain between Tigard and Sherwood with the large recently acquired Wapato Lake Unit being developed near Gaston. The Atfalat'i Unit, accessible off Highway 99W, is the only one currently accessible to the public. About 200 species of birds have been recorded here, the best times to visit being fall through spring. There is a Wildlife Center at the trailhead. Brochures and bird check lists are usually available at the large map kiosk for the Atfalat'i Unit. The Nature Trail, characterized by its interpretive signs, is open all year, but the service roads in the unit are closed from October 1st through April 30th. If you come here between those dates, be sure to stay on the trail. See the Tualatin River Wetland Loop Hike for extended hiking opportunities between May 1st and September 30th. Head down the trail to the right of the information kiosk at the trailhead parking area. The path switchbacks at a planting of Douglas-firs. To the right you will note a wrecker’s yard. Where the trail levels, walk between two small ponds rimmed by young cottonwoods, willows and reed canary grass. Then you're out in restored oak savannah, the oaks being only about four feet high at this point. At points along the trail, there are benches for sitting and observing. Looking right, you will see a planting of Valley ponderosa pines along the wrecker’s fence. The trail approaches the service road at a culvert and then you enter a thicket of maples and blackberries. You should note much passerine activity in here. You can descend the bank of a slough here. Cross a footbridge over a slough. The trail comes out in the open again and the service road is on your left. Beyond that is the large central wetland of the Atfalat'i Unit. With binoculars, look for waterfowl here, including large rafts of shovelers in the winter. To the right is a thicket shaded by ash trees that borders the river. Come to a platform over the river. Then pass u
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