Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge- Oaks to Wetlands Trail

This trail leads you through the northern Carty Unit of Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. It is a beautiful, shaded trail that is perfect for wildlife watching. There is a Chinookan style plankhouse that hosts scheduled talks, tours and kids activities. Immediately after starting out on the trail, you will come to a bridge over the BNSF railroad.  Shortly after the bridge, you will come across the plankhouse. The plankhouse is open for educational talks on weekends in April-October. Beyond the plankhouse, you’ll come to a junction. To your left you can access Duck Lake. However, to continue the trail, take a right and follow the trail through the forest.  When arrive at a small footbridge, take another right to stay on the trail until you arrive at Boot Lake. This is a perfect spot to bird watch. When you’re ready to get back on the trail, follow the side path around the east side of the lake.  The trail will lead you back through wetland grasses to another view of Duck Lake. After the trail junction, you’ll cross a small bridge and continue right at the fork to return to the parking lot.