Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.5 miles total
Elevation Gain: 200 feet
Leader: Phenix Johnson (Communications Coordinator)
Location: Basket Slough Wildlife Refuge, Rich Guadagno Memorial National Recreation Trail
Join Oregon Wild Staff and Salem Capital Pride on an easy hike through one of the many Wildlife Refuges in Oregon.
Public lands are for all, and nature rarely reflects the binary standards we often see in our world. Whether you’re an experienced birder or are dipping your toes into this winged world, all experience levels are welcome. Join us to learn about queer ecology, our winged neighbors, and how our world and theirs intersect.
This hike starts as the savannah transitions to an Oak-Maple woodland. This woodland supports a variety of wildlife, but is especially important to birds. Several species of woodpeckers, wrens, and thrushes live amongst these trees. The trail will then take us to a viewpoint overlooking the wetlands, where ducks, pelicans, and birds of prey can be found. After the viewpoint, the trail winds its way back to the trailhead. Along the way, we will discuss Oregon’s place in wildlife migration, why habitat is such an essential part of wildlife conservation, and what you can do to speak up for our wild neighbors. The trail is a well-maintained dirt path with some elevation gain. Birding is a slow activity, with many standing breaks, but there are few opportunities to sit down.
The goal of Oregon Wild’s outdoor program is to connect our supporters to the places we work to protect and conserve. Our guided hikes and outings are led by staff members with experience in our conservation campaigns, knowledge about the natural world, and a passion for Oregon’s wild places and wildlife. Our programs offer an educational experience and a connection to advocacy for the places we visit. We strive to make our outdoor programs inviting and safe for everyone.
