Exploring the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge.
An urban wildlife sanctuary with 1,856 acres of wetlands, forests, and trails just minutes from home. Here is your guide to the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge.
Ten minutes from the front door of 22379 SW 107th Ave, one of the country's special urban wildlife refuges awaits. The Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge, established in 1992 and opened to the public in 2006, is one of only ten urban refuges in the United States. At 1,856 acres, it preserves a vital stretch of river floodplain along the Tualatin River and provides a sanctuary for nearly 200 species of birds, over 50 mammal species, and countless native plants.
Located along the Pacific Flyway migratory route, this refuge is a year-round destination for anyone who values time outdoors. Whether you are an avid birder, a weekend hiker, or a parent looking for a kid-friendly nature walk, the refuge delivers a peaceful escape without requiring a long drive. As someone who has lived and worked in Oregon for decades, I can tell you that having a resource like this in your backyard is one of the quiet luxuries of living in Tualatin.
Urban Sanctuary
Nature in the city's backyard.
The Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge was born from a community partnership between local residents and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. It protects critical floodplain habitat in one of the fastest-growing regions of Oregon, ensuring that wildlife has a home and that residents have access to nature.
The refuge sits in the floodplain of the Tualatin River, whose name comes from the Atfalati Native American word meaning "lazy river." That gentle character is exactly what makes the refuge so appealing. Walking the trails here feels removed from the pace of modern life, even though you are only minutes from shopping, dining, and the I-5 corridor.
Hiking & Walking
Trails for every pace.
Year-Round
Year-Round Trail
A 2-mile out-and-back trail through oak and forested habitat that ends at a wetland overlook. Accessible, kid-friendly, and open every day from dawn to dusk. This is the trail to visit when you have an hour and want to reset. The path is wide, well-maintained, and suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
Seasonal
River Trail View Trail
A 3.66-mile loop with moderate difficulty, open from May 1 through September 30. This trail winds through wetlands where beaver activity is visible along Chicken Creek. The river views and wildflower displays in late spring are spectacular. Note that the trail closes for the winter to protect wildlife habitat.
Wildlife Viewing
Birds, mammals and more.
The refuge supports nearly 200 species of birds, making it one of the premier birding destinations in the Portland metro area. Bald eagles and great blue herons are common sightings. During migration seasons, the refuge hosts tundra swans, sandhill cranes, and countless waterfowl.
Mammals are equally abundant. River otters play along the riverbanks. Black-tailed deer move through the oak woodlands at dawn and dusk. Coyotes, beavers, and even the occasional bobcat have been documented. The refuge also provides important habitat for 25 species of reptiles and amphibians.
Photographers will appreciate the dedicated photography blinds strategically placed along the trails for unobtrusive wildlife photography. Binoculars and a camera are all you need for a rewarding visit.
Plan Your Visit
Hours, access and tips.
Hours
Trails and parking lot are open daily from dawn to dusk, 365 days a year. The Visitor Center is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (closed Mondays).
Getting There
Located at 19255 SW Pacific Highway in Sherwood, the refuge is about a 10-minute drive from 22379 SW 107th Ave via SW 115th Ave and Pacific Highway. Free parking is available at the refuge entrance.
Pro Tips
Bring binoculars for the best birding. Visit early morning or late afternoon for peak wildlife activity. Bikes are not permitted on refuge trails. The Visitor Center offers exhibits and ranger-led programs.
River Recreation
Beyond the trails: on the river.
The Tualatin River is a designated National Water Trail spanning 38.5 miles of navigable water. Canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular ways to experience the refuge from a different perspective. The Tualatin Riverkeepers organization offers guided group paddles and equipment rentals during the warmer months.
Tualatin Community Park Launch
8515 SW Tualatin Rd, Tualatin
A public boat ramp providing river access for kayaks, canoes, and small watercraft. Just a few minutes from home.
Browns Ferry Park Launch
5855 SW Nyberg Ln, Tualatin
Another popular put-in point along the Tualatin River with parking and easy water access for paddling.
Tualatin Riverkeepers
Tualatin, OR
A community organization offering guided group paddles, river stewardship events, and educational programs throughout the summer.
Nature at Your Doorstep
A home that puts the refuge within reach.
At 22379 SW 107th Ave, you are just ten minutes from the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge and minutes from Tualatin Community Park river access. Whether you are an avid birder, a weekend paddler, or someone who simply appreciates having green space nearby, this location delivers. Come see the home and the neighborhood for yourself.
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