Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge Winter Migratory Birding Walks

About this adventure

Located just minutes south of Tigard and Beaverton in Sherwood, the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge is a critical 2,200-acre wetland and woodland sanctuary on the Pacific Flyway. During the winter months, the refuge transforms into an incredible avian staging ground, hosting thousands of migratory birds including majestic tundra swans, northern pintails, green-winged teals, and cackling geese. Families can walk the stroller-friendly 1-mile seasonal trail and wooden wildlife viewing platforms equipped with free mounted spotting scopes. The interactive Wildlife Center features touchable animal furs, taxidermy mounts, hands-on bird beak feeding tools, and junior ranger activity booklets. Family Experience & Accessibility: • Stroller Accessibility: Exceptionally wide, level crushed-gravel trails and timber boardwalks provide effortless pushing for all stroller types. • Nursing & Rest Spots: Modern visitor center with clean ADA family restrooms and baby changing stations; observation decks with viewing benches. • Age Suitability: All ages; young children love peeking through low-height viewing scopes to spot resting swans. • Sensory Tips: Serene natural refuge with bird calls echoing across the wetlands; trails are quiet, and dogs are not allowed on refuge grounds to protect resting wildlife.