Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge
The Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1965 to provide wintering habitat for the dusky subspecies of the Canada goose. Today, the Refuge preserves both habitat for wildlife, and evidence of the people who once lived here. The approximately 5,300 acres contain a lush mixture of wetlands, grasslands, riparian corridors, and forests. These habitats, combined with a mild and rainy winter climate, provide the ideal environment for many species including neotropical song birds, wintering waterfowl, and other local native species.
The Carty Unit (28908 NW Main Ave) and River 'S' Unit (1071 S Hilhurst) are available for the public to visit. The Carty Unit hosts the main Refuge office, the Cathlapotle Plankhouse, the Oaks-to-Wetlands Trail, and the seasonal Carty Lake Trail. The River 'S' Unit offers the Auto Tour Route and the seasonal Kiwa Trail, as well as access to the hunt zones. Check the website for closure information before you visit!