Discovery Trail

Birding Field Trip to the Discovery Trail in Centralia, Lewis Co.

When:

March 25, 2023. Time 8:00 am to 12:00 pm

Trip Leader:

Grace Thornton

Registration:

Pre-registration for this is not required, but is advised so we don’t leave anyone behind or if you have any questions. Contact Grace by email gracethornton12@nullgmail.com

Description:

The Discovery Trail in Centralia has a variety of habitats. Open grasslands, low brush, established trees, and the Chehalis River. If there is rain prior to this trip expect to have muddy conditions. Flooded farm fields will provide opportunities to see waterfowl, and there are Killdeer, robins, and juncos along the trail. We should be seeing some migratory birds in the river foliage and Bald Eagle nesting activity nearby.

Pace 1, Terrain A and B, distance is about 2 miles

Restrooms:

Pit toilets are available at the parking area.

What to bring:

Binoculars, spotting scope, weather appropriate clothing, good walking shoes and snacks/water.

Directions:

From Thurston Co. head south on I5 to the highway 12 exit at Grand Mound, Tenino exit. Head west and at the signal make a left turn on Old Highway 99 (SW Harrison Ave) for about 4 miles. Make a right turn on Goodrich Rd; there will be a brown Discovery Trail sign on Harrison Ave and Goodrich.

https://goo.gl/maps/z8UzLyPSwBT2oxsX9

From the Centralia/Chehalis area. Take I5 north to the Harrison Ave Outlet Malls. Head west on Harrison Ave about 4 miles. Make a left on Goodrich Rd.

Parking:

Ample parking is available at the Centralia water treatment plant’s Discovery Trailhead.

Photo credit: Flooded field at the Discovery Trail, by Rachel Hudson.