Wildlife & Nature

The abundance of wildlife in the Tri-Cities area makes for exciting observing and learning experiences.

Watch the migration of waterfowl in the fall and spring, and see the subtle changes in local flora and fauna as the seasons change. The Tri-Cities is home to eight National Wildlife Refuges and Reserves, perfect for getting up close to Washington state wildlife. You can also spot local fauna on many of the hiking and biking trails in and around the Tri-Cities.

Thanks to the mild climate, bird enthusiasts can enjoy birdwatching year-round. Each visit offers the promise of new and different species, as the area attracts both migrating and resident birds. Visitors are often challenged not by the birding itself, but by finding enough time to explore all the wonderful viewing areas available. Birding is one of the Tri-Cities’ best-kept secrets, and birding enthusiasts from outside the area are frequently impressed by the variety and abundance of species.

Listen & Learn

Planning your adventure? Go beyond the trail with this episode of the Washington State Hiking Podcast. Hosted by outdoor writer and hiking expert Jennie, each episode features local experts who share the stories, history, geology, wildlife, and hidden details that make these destinations unique. Listen before you go—or on the drive to the trailhead—for a deeper appreciation of the landscapes you'll experience.


How Ice Age Floods Shaped Washington Wine Country

Spring transforms Eastern Washington's shrub-steppe into a colorful display of balsamroot, lupine, desert parsley, and other native wildflowers.

In this episode, Jennie Thwing Flaming and hiking guidebook author Craig Romano share some of their favorite places to experience the season, along with tips for timing your visit and enjoying wildflower hikes responsibly.

Whether you're searching for sweeping hillsides blanketed in blooms or simply looking for a scenic spring adventure, this episode is the perfect companion for exploring the Tri-Cities and the surrounding Columbia Basin.

Washington State Hiking Podcast

Amon Creek Natural Preserve

Amon Basin is created by the drainage of Amon Creek. Amon Creek and its associated wetlands and riparian areas provide a cool refuge for wildlife, including beavers, river otters, jack rabbits and deer. Those who love bird-watching can find over 150 species throughout this preserve.

Audubon Nature Trail

Audubon Nature Trail, located along the Columbia River in Columbia Park, provides a leisurely, paved loop perfect for birding enthusiasts looking for an easy trek. The trail includes a nature pond for insect and fish identification. Visitors have spotted deer tracks as well as other wildlife.

Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve

Badger Mountain Centennial Preserve is one of the last remaining shrub-steppe habitats bordering the southwestern edge of Tri-Cities. Hike, mountain bike, or take a horseback ride up Badger Mountain, where spectacular vistas of Tri-Cities and Columbia, Yakima, and Snake river valleys can be experienced. An interesting mix of small mammals are also found there.

McNary National Wildlife Refuge

McNary National Wildlife Refuge is an important resting and feeding area for migratory waterfowl. Depending on the season, visitors have excellent chances to view many species of mammals, songbirds, waterfowl, and migratory birds. More than 212 species of birds are regularly sighted at the Refuge, including several endangered species.

Chamna Natural Preserve

Tapteal Greenway/Chamna Natural Preserve is a 30-mile corridor along the Yakima River with trails, interpretive kiosks, signage, and trail maps. The Yakima River provides an intimate setting, winding through farmlands and thickly-vegetated riparian areas. Kayakers can explore countless sloughs, islands, and rapids on a river that is a popular breeding area for waterfowl and home to many species of Washington state wildlife.

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