Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge
Eastern WashingtonBest Mar–Jun, Sep–Oct
Flat, paved loop through ice-age scablands with 200-plus bird species, elk, and moose, just 30 minutes from Spokane.
About This Trail
Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge protects a piece of the Channeled Scablands, the landscape carved by catastrophic ice-age floods that tore across Eastern Washington thousands of years ago. Today the terrain holds a chain of shallow lakes, wetlands, and pine-dotted grasslands that support over 200 bird species and a surprising roster of mammals including elk, moose, badgers, river otters, porcupines, beavers, and bobcats.
The main route is the 5.5-mile Pine Lake Loop, a paved path that circles Winslow Pool and the Pine Lakes. It is flat, wheelchair-accessible, and suitable for strollers. The optional Stubblefield Trail extension heads through grasslands and pine groves with views of Cheever Lake and Stubblefield Lake. Birders should bring optics. Spring migration from March through May brings the heaviest waterfowl traffic. Cavity-nesting birds and raptors are present through summer. Winter visits are quiet but the frozen lakes and dusted scabland rock have their own stark appeal.
The refuge charges a small entrance fee from March through October ($3 per vehicle). Winter entry is free. Hours vary by season. Dogs are allowed on leash, which is unusual for a national wildlife refuge. The visitor center has maps and current sighting reports.
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Scorecard
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended
Persistent Hazards
- seasonal ticks in tall grass on Stubblefield Trail
- no shade on most of the loop in summer heat
Getting There
Refuge Entrance Pass required March through October: $3 per vehicle or $3 per family for cyclists and walkers. Free entry November through February. Parking at headquarters and along the loop road.
From the visitor center, the Pine Lake Loop heads out on paved path. The Stubblefield Trail branches off for a grassland extension. The auto loop road parallels much of the route, so you can drive to specific trailheads if you want shorter walks.
Early morning is best for birding. The refuge opens at 6 AM from April through September. Bring binoculars and check the visitor center sighting board before heading out.
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