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Top Washington Destinations for Spotting Wildlife
from 1889 Washington's Magazine + Special Insert: Destination Resorts Northwest | December/January 2024
Into the Wild
For top-notch wildlife viewing, these four Washington destinations deliver
written by Ryn Pfeuffer
With its diverse ecosystems, from coastal shores to alpine mountains, Washington is a hot spot for wildlife watching. Our national parks host thousands of wildlife species, including elk, bears, deer, seals, beavers, whales and bats. While populations are flourishing, spotting wildlife often requires patience and luck. Some creatures are easier to see than others, but you can improve your chances by learning about the wildlife you want to encounter. Here are some of the best places to see wildlife:
Olympic National Park
Spanning nearly a million acres, Olympic National Park is a playground for wildlife lovers. Its dramatic diversity, from glacier-capped mountains to lush rainforests, makes it one of the most fascinating places in the Lower Forty-Eight states. As you explore its remote trails, you might spot black-tailed deer roaming the forests or encounter majestic Roosevelt elk, especially in the serene Hoh Rainforest. Remember to keep a respectable distance, as these mighty creatures can be unpredictable.
Head to higher elevations near Hurricane Ridge to see Olympic marmots basking on rocks or peeking out from their burrows. Birdwatchers will delight in the skies filled with more than 300 species, including bald eagles, northern pygmy owls, black oystercatchers and sooty grouse.
For an awesome spectacle, witness the dramatic fall salmon migration at the Salmon Cascades overlook, where all five species of Pacific salmon make their upstream journey. The park’s rugged coastline also offers front-row whale-watching opportunities during migration seasons—look for gray whales, humpbacks, orcas and playful dolphins at Kalaloch, Rialto and Shi Shi beaches.
Watch for black bears in the backcountry, where sightings are rare but do happen. With 95 percent of the park designated as wilderness, each visit offers new chances to see animals in their natural habitat.
Where to Stay: Kalaloch Lodge (www.the kalalochlodge.com) offers oceanfront accommodations that are perfect for families. The cabins have kitchens and spacious layouts, ideal for extended stays. // What to Eat: Don’t miss Dupuis’ Restaurant (www.dupuis-restaurant. com), a charming spot between Sequim and Port Angeles known for its seafood and hearty classics. // Learn More: www.nps.gov/olym
San Juan Islands
Home to the San Juan Island National Historical Park, the San Juan Islands offer an extraordinary landscape for wildlife observation. The Salish Sea teems with life, boasting hundreds of fish species, 200 bird species and a wide variety of marine and terrestrial mammals. Among the highlights are the iconic orcas—particularly the salmon-eating “Southern Resident” pods (J, K and L) and their marine mammal-hunting cousins, the Transients. From April to October, especially in August and September, you have the best chance of witnessing these striking black-and-white creatures, along with humpbacks and minke whales.
The best way to see marine wildlife is on a whale-watching tour led by experienced naturalists who know the waters intimately. Whether you prefer a private boat or a kayaking adventure, there’s an option for everyone. Lime Kiln Point State Park, often dubbed Whale Watch Park, is world renowned for land-based viewing.
The islands also boast the largest breeding population of bald eagles in the Lower Forty-Eight, with more than 125 nesting sites. As you wander the island, watch for these magnificent birds, along with great blue herons, peregrine falcons and the elusive red fox, introduced to control rabbit populations.
With river otters foraging along the shore and Steller sea lions basking on rocks, the San Juans promise wildlife encounters (from a safe distance, of course) to remember.
Where to Stay: Snug Harbor Resort (www.snug resort.com) on San Juan Island offers cozy waterfront cabins with stunning views and fully equipped kitchens. // What to Eat: Duck Soup (www.ducksoupsanjuans.com), established in 1978, serves fresh, island-inspired cuisine in a cozy setting. // Learn More: www. visitsanjuans.com
Mount Rainier National Park
Mount Rainier National Park is a dream destination for wildlife enthusiasts, full of incredible biodiversity. Spanning over 368 square miles, it’s home to sixty-five mammal species, 182 bird species, fourteen amphibians, five reptiles and fourteen types of native fish. The animals you might encounter vary with the season and elevation, so each visit offers a fresh adventure.
The park’s meadows are a hot spot for wildlife viewing, especially in summer. Locations like Paradise and Sunrise come alive with vibrant wildflowers, attracting all sorts of creatures. Keep an eye out for Columbian black-tailed deer roaming the meadows, Douglas squirrels chattering in the trees and the striking Steller’s jays flashing their vivid blue feathers. These birds and common ravens are among the many avian residents that nest here, while others migrate south for the winter.
Mount Rainier’s diverse elevation—ranging from 1,500 feet to more than 14,400 feet—creates distinct life zones. The park is home to Roosevelt elk, one of North America’s largest subspecies, often seen in the lower forested areas and meadows. In the fall, their distinctive bugling can be heard during the mating season, adding an unforgettable soundtrack to your visit.
American black bears are also a common sight in the park, typically foraging in various habitats during the summer. While they tend to avoid human interaction, storing food properly and maintaining a safe distance is wise. Carrying bear spray on hikes can provide peace of mind for those concerned about bear encounters.
Look for the sure-footed mountain goats in the alpine and subalpine regions, easily recognizable by their white fur and impressive horns. They thrive on the rocky ridges and cliff faces, showcasing their agility against the rugged backdrop. Pikas, small mammals related to rabbits, can often be heard before they’re seen, emitting squeaky high-pitched calls as they scurry among the rocks. Don’t miss the chance to spot hoary marmots, affectionately known as “whistling pigs.” These social ground squirrels are often seen basking in the sun on warm rocks during the summer months.
Where to Stay: The Paradise Inn (www.mtrainierguest services.com/accommodations/ paradise-inn) offers prime trail access and is conveniently located near popular hikes. // What to Eat: For a unique dining experience, try Wildberry (www.rainierwildberry.com), a Nepalese restaurant offering dishes like Himalayan Sherpa stew and pork momo dumplings. // Learn More: www.nps. gov/mora
North Cascades National Park
North Cascades National Park, just two hours northeast of Seattle, is one of Washington’s three national parks and definitely the least known. It’s been making headlines lately with plans to reintroduce grizzly bears, which is exciting news for wildlife lovers.
Your wildlife experience here really depends on the season, time of day and how far you’re willing to explore. Keep an eye out for telltale signs of life such as tracks, scat and feeding signs—these are all clues that point to the creatures inhabiting this stunning wilderness.
The park features a rich tapestry of ecosystems, from lush temperate rainforests to dry ponderosa pine forests. About seventy-five mammal species roam these rugged landscapes, including elusive cougars and lynx. While spotting a gray wolf or wolverine can be a challenge, you might just catch a glimpse of them if you’re lucky.
You’ll have a better chance with some of the more visible residents, like Columbian black-tailed deer, playful Douglas squirrels and adorable pikas, often seen in the meadows and rocky slopes. Birdwatchers will love the park’s diverse avian life, including majestic bald eagles, agile ospreys and swift peregrine falcons, along with various colorful neotropical migrants that fill the skies with song.
Where to Stay: In-park options are limited to camping, but Ross Lake Resort (www.rosslake resort.com) offers floating cabins through a lottery. // What to Eat: At the gateway to the American Alps, Upriver Grill & Taproom (www.uprivergrill.com) is a mountain-themed restaurant that offers standout wild Pacific salmon, local draft beers, craft cocktails and an extensive whiskey selection. // Learn More: www.nps.gov/noca
Viewing Tips
Watch at Dawn and Dusk: Most wildlife activity occurs around dawn and dusk when animals feed. Plan your excursions during these times to increase your chances of spotting wildlife.
Bring the Right Tools: Enhance your viewing experience with field guides, binoculars, a zoom lens and comfortable shoes.
Know Their Habits and Habitats: Understanding habitat preferences and seasonal cycles is vital to successful wildlife observation. For example, you won’t find a marmot on the coast or a river otter at Hurricane Ridge. Migratory species like gray whales are best seen in spring and fall while hibernating animals like marmots are typically visible only in summer. Researching these aspects before your visit can significantly improve your chances of an encounter.
Ask a Ranger: Visit the nearest visitor center for up-to-date information on the best wildlife viewing areas.
Be a Safe & Responsible Wildlife Observer
Never Feed Wildlife: Feeding wildlife, including birds and small mammals like chipmunks, is illegal and harmful to their natural behaviors.
Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain at least 150 feet from wildlife. If an animal moves away from you, you’re too close. Use binoculars or a telephoto lens to observe without disturbing them.
While Driving: Always stop at roadside pullouts to view wildlife, ensuring safety for you and the animals while reducing the risk of vehicle accidents and congestion.
