“Lions and tigers and bears, oh my!” is not entirely accurate when it comes to the animals you’ll see at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park. But wolves and cougars and elk sure are, along with moose, bison, birds, beaver, otter, and many other forest and wetland animals. This 725-acre wildlife in Eatonville, Washington doesn’t have a yellow brick road, but following its paved pathways through the woods provides an opportunity to see more than 200 animals native to the Pacific Northwest. When you’re tired of walking, take the narrated tram tour through the free roaming area where bighorn sheep, mountain goats and more graze by the side of the road. There are also several zip lines if you’re feeling adventurous, and miles of unpaved trails for hiking.
If you have a favorite Pacific Northwest animal or bird you’d like to see up close, you probably won’t be disappointed. Watch the funny antics of river otters, beaver, raccoon, and more from upper and lower viewing decks. You can even see inside a real beaver den. The big cat area includes bobcats, lynx, and cougar. Both grizzlies and black bears are found at Northwest Trek, as well as small furry forest animals such as the badger, fisher, and wolverine. You’ll likely hear the howling wolves long before you see them, but you may never spot the elusive red fox. Owls, eagles, and turkey vultures also rule the roost here.
Every visit to Northwest Trek is a little different. Spring and summer are baby season. In the fall, glimpse bull elk locking antlers as they spar over a mate during the “rut” or breeding season. Special events for photographers, bear camp weekends, feeding tours and more allow you to get closer to the animals and learn about environmental conservation. No matter which animals you encounter and no matter the season, you’ll be exclaiming “Oh my!” Don’t forget your camera.
IF YOU GO:
11610 Trek Dr East
Eatonville, WA 98328
Phone: (360) 832-6117
http://www.nwtrek.org
Open Daily, 9:30 am – 6 pm. Admission price includes parking (large lots suitable for all sizes of RVs), tram tour and admission to park. Discounts for military and local residents.
Adults (ages 13 – 64) $19.75
Seniors (ages 65+) $18.25
Youth (ages 5 – 12) $12.25
Tots (ages 3 & 4) $9.25
2 and Under FREE
In addition to writing about her travels, Denise Seith is also a treasure hunter and loves a good latté. She and her husband own an online gold prospecting and metal detecting equipment store found at GoldRushTradingPost.com
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