Black Hills Audubon Field Trip to Frye Cove
February 15 @ 9:00 am-12:00 pm
Title: Winter Birding at Frye Cove County Park – 4000 NW 61st Ave., Olympia, WA 98502
When:
Saturday, February 15, 2025 – 9-Noon
Trip leader:
Laurie Gneiding
Description:
Frye Cove County Park is 86 acres with 2 miles of wooded trails and 1400 feet of saltwater beach along the west side of the Eld Inlet. There is a magnificent view of Mt. Rainier. The walk will be leisurely along the well-maintained hiking trails that are hilly in some spots. There is one short steep hill (~110 ft) leading to the beach from the parking lot (or vice versa). Benches are located along the trail.
Past Christmas bird counts have observed all 3 scoters, Bufflehead, mergansers, grebes, cormorants, loons, and goldeneye along with Pileated Woodpecker, sapsuckers, flickers, creepers, kinglets, and sparrows.
Restrooms:
Flush toilet restrooms with running water are located at the picnic area down the hill below the parking area.
What to bring: Binoculars. Spotting scope. Water and snacks. Dress for the January weather. Waterproof boots as trails may be muddy if it’s rained lately. Hiking pole if needed.
Directions:
From I-5 in Olympia, north or southbound, take Exit 104 (US 101 north, Aberdeen). Stay on US 101 toward Shelton. Take the Steamboat Island Rd Exit. Go north on Steamboat Island Rd NW about 5.8 miles and turn right onto Young Rd NW. Proceed about 2 miles, turn left on 61st Ave NW into Frye Cove Park.
Registration:
Registration is not required.
Parking:
Adequate parking available for up to 30 cars.
Photo credit: Horned Grebe, by Rachel Hudson.