The best walks and hikes in Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge

The refuge is part of the unique Channeled Scablands, featuring a diverse landscape shaped by ancient ice age floods. You'll encounter basalt outcrops, channeled canyons, and over 130 marshes, wetlands, and lakes. Trails often wind through extensive ponderosa pine forests, aspen groves, and steppe grasslands, offering a varied experience.

Yes, Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge offers several easy trails perfect for beginners and families. The Middle Pine Lake loop from Winslow Dike Dam is a short 1.3-mile (2.1 km) trail through wetlands, often completed in about 32 minutes. Other accessible options include the 0.5-mile Kepple Peninsula Trail and the 0.1-mile Blackhorse Lake Boardwalk, both excellent for gentle strolls and wildlife viewing.

The refuge is a haven for wildlife, with over 200 bird species and various mammals. For excellent viewing opportunities, try the Headquarters Pond – Stubblefield Trail loop from Winslow Dike Dam, which passes through riparian, forest, and wetland habitats where moose and various ducks can often be spotted. The Pine Lake Loop Trail also features a photo blind, making it a favorite for wildlife photographers. Early mornings and evenings are generally best for spotting animals.

No, dogs are generally not permitted on the hiking trails within Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge to protect the sensitive wildlife and habitats. Service animals are an exception. It's always best to check the official refuge guidelines before your visit for any specific updates or regulations.

Yes, many trails in the refuge are designed as loops. For a moderate circular hike, consider the 30 Acre Lake – Blackhorse Lake loop from Winslow Dike Dam, which is 6.7 miles (10.7 km) long. The North wetlands – Cheney Wetlands loop from Cheney is another easy 3.7-mile (6 km) loop option.

Spring and fall are often considered the best times for hiking in Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge. In spring, the grasslands are vibrant with wildflowers, and migratory birds are abundant. Fall offers pleasant temperatures and beautiful autumn colors. Summer can be warm, while winter hiking is possible but may involve colder temperatures and potential snow, impacting trail conditions.

The refuge provides parking areas at various trailheads. Many of the popular routes, such as the 30 Acre Lake loop from Winslow Dike Dam, start from designated parking near Winslow Dike Dam. There is also a 5.5-mile scenic auto tour loop that provides access to several trailheads and allows for wildlife viewing from your vehicle.

Generally, a daily or annual entrance fee is required to access Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge. This fee supports the maintenance and conservation efforts of the refuge. For the most current information on fees and any specific permits, it's advisable to check the official U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service website for Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge: fws.gov/refuge/turnbull.

For a longer hike, the Stubblefield Trail is approximately 4.95 miles and offers expansive views of rolling grasslands, passing by Winslow Pool, Middle Pond, and Pine Lakes. The 30 Acre Lake – Blackhorse Lake loop from Winslow Dike Dam is also a substantial option at 6.7 miles (10.7 km), typically taking about 2 hours 45 minutes to complete.

The refuge is rich in natural features. You'll encounter numerous wetlands, lakes, and ponds such as Kepple Lake, Blackhorse Lake, Pine Lake, Headquarters Pond, Windmill Pond, Winslow Pool, and Middle Pond. The unique Channeled Scablands geology is evident throughout, with basalt outcrops and ancient flood-sculpted landscapes. The Kepple Peninsula Trail also leads to a covered pavilion and a wildlife observation blind.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the refuge for its exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, especially for birds, and the unique, tranquil landscapes of the Channeled Scablands. The well-maintained trails and diverse habitats are also frequently highlighted.