サーストン郡の天然記念物・トップ5

Woodard Bay Conservation Area spans 870 acres and protects and provides habitat for harbor seals, bald eagles, a large colony of bats, and one of the largest heron nesting areas in the state. There are forested hiking trails and a paved road that serves as a trail, although some close seasonally to protect nesting herons and eagles. It is a wonderful place to connect with nature as you explore this beautiful area. Dogs are not allowed in the preserve, even on a leash, so you'll need to leave your pup at home.

At an elevation of 2,356 feet, Rock Candy Mountain is one of the tallest peaks in Thurston County. The trail and road systems covering the mountain and surrounding foothills are heavily utilized by off-roaders and mountain bikers. There are a few different loops you can make out here, some just an hour long and others extending over 30 miles.

Parking costs $3, payable by cash or check. The National Wildlife Refuge also accepts all types of America the Beautiful passes. The Visitor Center is open Wednesday - Friday, 9:00 - 4:00. It features an accessible viewing platform, exhibits on the habitat and wildlife, and a gift shop benefitting the Friends of Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge Complex.

The Nisqually Estuary Boardwalk has a covered viewing platform with scopes at its north end. This part of the boardwalk may be closed during waterfowl hunting seasons. On clear days, you can see Mount Rainier to the east.

Parking costs $3, payable by cash or check. The National Wildlife Refuge also accepts all types of America the Beautiful passes. The Visitor Center is open Wednesday - Friday, 9:00 - 4:00. It features an accessible viewing platform, exhibits on the habitat and wildlife, and a gift shop benefitting the Friends of Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge Complex.

No one knows exactly what created the distinct geological formations beneath this prairie, but many hypotheses have been made. In any case, all agree that this is a special place, and it was designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1966. A Discover Pass is required to park at the trailhead. Only service dogs are allowed here.

Get a better look at the strange mounds from a raised viewing platform. Interpretive signs at the viewing platform describe the unknown origins of this geological phenomenon.

The 640-acre Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve contains around 370 acres of mounded prairie. The area's marine-influenced climate is mild, with warm, dry summers and cool, but mostly snow-free winters at 200 feet above sea level. Mima Mounds Preserve's grassland is native glacial outwash prairie.