National Wildlife Refuge Saddle Mountain

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

National Wildlife Refuge Saddle Mountain is a protected area located in the state of Washington.


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Summary

The refuge is home to diverse wildlife species such as elk, deer, black bear, and numerous bird species. Visitors can engage in a variety of activities like hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography.

One of the most popular hiking trails is the Saddle Mountain Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is moderate in difficulty and runs for approximately 4.5 miles round trip.

Another highlight of the refuge is the Saddle Mountain Overlook, which provides panoramic views of the Columbia River and the Cascade Mountains.

Interesting facts about the area include its location on the migratory route for various bird species, making it a popular spot for birdwatchers. Additionally, the refuge is home to several rare plant species, including the White-top Aster and the Spalding's Catchfly.

The best time of year to visit the National Wildlife Refuge Saddle Mountain is during the spring and summer months when the weather is mild, and the flora and fauna are abundant. However, visitors should be aware that the refuge is closed from December 1st to March 31st to protect wildlife during the winter months.

Overall, the National Wildlife Refuge Saddle Mountain is a beautiful and diverse natural area located in Washington State that offers visitors a chance to engage in outdoor activities, view wildlife, and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

       

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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