There are so many natural wonders to see in our area that it can be quite overwhelming! Depending on what passes you already have, and your time restraints, we have some suggestions for you.
Potential Day Trips
Nisqually Wildlife Refuge, just a short ten minute drive north of the Inn, is a spectacular and diverse place to visit year round. Walk over boardwalk, see the tides flow over the Nisqually River delta. The refuge was recently renamed to the Bill Frank Jr Nisqually Wildlife Refuge to honor a local tribe leader.
Staircase entrance to the Olympic National Park – Staircase Rapids Hike. Drive to Hoodsport. Hoodsport may work for lunch. the hike is like
Closer to the Inn
Maybe you are not up for an all day trip. Staying closer to the Inn there are plenty of short walks and hikes to take in. From flat, to hilly and urban to country.
Tumwater Falls – short walk around salmon hatchery and waterfalls. You could have a nice lunch at Falls Terrace Restaurant, as you look out over the upper falls. The salmon hatchery has just been completely rebuilt.
State Capitol Campus is famous for its main building, open 11am to 3pm – tours on the hour or self-guided. Also walk across and look in the Temple of Justice – our Superior Court. the grounds also feature many memorials and gardens. From the fallen police officer memorial you get a great view out over capital lake and Olympia’s downtown.
This post barely scratches the surface.
Leave a Reply