Nestucca Bay NWR

The refuge was established in 1991 specifically to protect the wintering grounds of Aleutian Cackling and Dusky Canada Geese but with additional land acquisitions it now protects migratory songbirds, raptors, deer, salmon, and many other species.

A short paved road provides access to an overlook with a view of land leased to farmers. Grazing cattle and harvesting hay keeps the grass low which is ideal for geese. The road past the overlook is dirt - one lane with pullouts.

The dirt road ends at a parking lot where a paved trail climbs to views of the ocean. mountain ranges, and river valley.

A 2.2 mile nature trail is a continuation of the road which meets a foot trail to form a loop.

The paved trail is designated as accessible but it is very steep. Even with assistance it's a difficult trail. The railing of the overlook platform has a lowered section that is still a bit too high.

The nature trail is not accessible. The first section has large gravel which eventually becomes packed down and easier to roll on but we went only about 1/3 of a mile before turning around because of the rolling terrain.

Vehicles over 25' are not permitted in the refuge. The dirt road is too narrow for vehicles to pass each other and the pullouts are not frequent. Luckily we did not meet anyone.The parking lots are large enough for short RVs. Refuge  45.16223, -123.95133