The best walks and hikes in Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge

No, pets are not permitted within the refuge to protect the wildlife and their habitat. This rule applies to all trails within the refuge boundaries.

The trails are generally flat with minimal elevation gain, making for easy walking. Most paths consist of compacted gravel and wind through restored floodplain habitats, including wetlands, pastures, and cottonwood forests along the Columbia River.

Yes, the refuge is well-suited for families. The flat terrain and well-maintained paths are ideal for all ages. For a shorter, accessible walk, consider the East Channel via Meadows Trail loop — Sandy River Delta, which is a gentle 2.9-mile (4.7 km) route.

The refuge is a prime location for wildlife viewing, especially for birdwatching, with over 200 species recorded. You can expect to see waterfowl, songbirds, and raptors. It's also common to spot mammals like deer, as well as turtles, amphibians, and various insects. The reconnected Gibbons Creek offers a chance to see spawning salmon and steelhead at the fish ladder.

Yes, parts of the Gibbons Creek Wildlife Art Trail are closed from October 1st to April 30th each year. This closure is in place to protect sensitive wintering waterfowl. Always check for posted signs at trailheads for the most current information.

Most trails in the refuge are for hikers only. However, the Refuge River Trail, which runs along the dike, is a multi-use path open to hikers, joggers, cyclists, and horseback riders. This trail offers great views of the Columbia River.

The main access point is the Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge parking lot located at 35001 Lewis and Clark Hwy, Washougal, WA. This lot serves as the starting point for the main trail system, including the Mountain View Trail and Gibbons Creek Wildlife Art Trail.

The refuge offers a variety of trail lengths. You can find short, easy loops under 3 miles (5 km) as well as longer options. Most of the 50 routes in the area are rated as easy due to the flat terrain. For a longer but still gentle outing, the Sandy River Delta loop — Troutdale, Oregon is a 4-mile (6.5 km) walk with very little elevation change.

The area is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the easy, flat trails, the excellent opportunities for birdwatching, and the beautiful views of the Columbia River and Mount Hood on clear days.

There are over 50 hiking routes to explore in and around Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge. The interconnected trail system allows for various loops and out-and-back options, ranging from short walks to longer excursions.

Yes, the trail network is designed to allow for several loop hikes. A good example is the Hiking loop from Beaver Creek, a 3.4-mile (5.5 km) circular route that takes you through the local landscape with very little climbing.

The refuge is open daily from dawn to dusk. However, be mindful of seasonal trail closures, particularly on the Gibbons Creek Wildlife Art Trail between October and April. For the most up-to-date information on access, you can check the official refuge activities page.