DESTINATION: Nisqually River - Puget Sound
Posted by: 
Hikenutty
N 47° 05.617 W 122° 42.136
10T E 522595 N 5215610
The Nisqually River originates at the Nisqually glacier on Mt. Rainier, and reaches the Puget Sound here, forming a lush estuary that is a National Natural Landmark and a National Wildlife Refuge.
Waymark Code: WM1EWD
Location: Washington, United States
Date Posted: 04/22/2007
Views: 71
The Nisqually River originates at the Nisqually glacier on Mt. Rainier, and reaches the Puget Sound here, forming a lush delta. Coordinates given are for the observation tower that is closest to where the Nisqually enters the Sound. The marshland is sensitive and restricted to protect the wildlife. The river sits low in the the grass, flooding out over the delta during high tide.
The Nisqually Delta, formed here where the river meets the Sound, is a temperate coastal salt marsh that is a major resting area for migratory waterfowl in the southern Puget Sound region, and is registered as a National Natural Landmark, and preserved as a National Wildlife Refuge. The official Landmark Webpage calls it "an unusually fine example of an estuarine ecosystem, and the only natural resting area for migratory waterfowl in the southern Puget Sound region." A 5 1/2 mile trail loops the refuge and features 2 overlooks and several viewing binoculars (no coins necessary, these are free.) The trail is a favorite of birders and wildlife photographers.
The refuge Website can be viewed here, and a map of the refuge can be downloaded here. If you are interested in the wide variety of species supported by this refuge, be sure to link to the refuge's Website. There are individual pages for lists of birds, fish, mammals, and reptiles and amphibians. The fee to visit the refuge is $3 paid in an envelope near the entrance to the Visitor Center.
I have also waymarked the origin of the Nisqually, so be sure to check out where this river started.