BirdFest and Bluegrass is the main event every year that the Friends of Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge & the City of Ridgefield put on to bring awareness to Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge, and all that it has to offer.

We celebrate the Sandhill Crane returning to the Refuge, a huge stately bird that is endangered in Washington State, and we celebrate everything the Refuge is and what it brings to the community. With endangered species, hundreds of migratory species, an auto tour route, photo blind, walking trails, habitat restoration programs, and so much more – there is a lot to celebrate, and a lot to learn.

We are uniquely fortunate to have the Refuge as a resource right in our own backyard, and by learning not only how to appreciate the beauty, but the necessity of it, you come one step closer to being able to support it.

Whether you head downtown to jam with bluegrass bands, shop, or do crafts, take a drive around the Refuge’s Auto Tour, or head to the Carty Unit for family crafts, guided hikes, or a walk on the trail- there is something for everyone, and lots to learn!

Visit the Friends web page for updates on schedules, performances and activities!

Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge Event Schedule - Carty & River 'S' Units - Carty Unit Events, 28908 NW Main Avenue

• 9 AM – Opening Blessing with the Chinook Indian Nation

  • Join Sam Robinson, Vice-Chairman of the Chinook Indian Nation, and Friends Board Member, to bless and begin our festival.

9 AM – 2 PM –

• Self-Guided Wander Walks provided by Ridgefield Community Library and the Friends of RNWR

• Family Activities & Crafts

  • Create bird and nature-themed crafts

• Pro Photo Supply Ridgefield Refuge & Fledgling Photo Contest Winner Display

• Partner Party

  • Come on by the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge Carty Unit and hang out with over 13 of the partners who make our Refuge work! From Washington Trails Association to Master Gardeners (Do their scavenger hunt and win a magnifying glass! While supplies last), and many more! Check out our Linktree for a complete list.

• Ridgefield Refuge Art Contest

  • Our second annual art competition with the Ridgefield Art Association welcomes submissions of bird-themed artwork. Free to enter, with cash prizes for winners across four categories. Register before September 30, View and vote on the submissions on the Carty Unit, 9 AM – 2 PM! Please vote only once per age group.

• Hikes Meet at the Carty Unit Trailhead by the flagpole.

  • 9:15 AM – ASMP & Pro Photo Supply Photography Hike

    • Learn about nature and wildlife photography on a walk with ASMP and Pro Photo Supply on the Carty Unit’s Carty Lake Trail.

  • 10 AM – Explore The Ridgefield NWR Through Nature Journaling

    • Learn new ways to appreciate and enjoy the beauty of the RNWR through nature journaling. Your journal will be your tool for exploration as we walk part of the Oaks to Wetland Trail. We’ll pause along the way to observe, sketch, and record the discoveries we make together, using journaling techniques to sharpen our attention to the world around us. Great class for kids 10 years or above and all adults. You will receive: a watercolor journal, a watercolor brush pen, and the paints necessary for your first journal entry. Registration Required. 

  • 10 AM – Family-Friendly Carty Trail Discoveries

    • Bring the whole family, and join a Refuge Naturalist on the Carty Lake Trail.

  • 11 PM – Geology Hike with Jim Maul

    • Join local geologist Jim Maul for a guided hike that explores the geological history of the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. You’ll learn about the massive glacial floods that carved out the landscape and shaped the Columbia River. Discover how this powerful natural event created the fertile wetlands and unique terrain we see today. It’s a fascinating look at the “bones” of the Refuge, perfect for anyone interested in the natural history of the area.

  • 12 PM – Carty Lake Trail Nature Hike

    • Bring the whole family, and join a Refuge Naturalist on the Carty Lake Trail.

  • 1 PM – Noticing Nature Hike for Families

    • Join Jessica Becker, author of the “little feet hiking” book series, to learn nature awareness skills and hike 1.4 miles on the Oaks to Wetland Trail to see what we notice. This hike is appropriate for walkers of all ages. Strollers and wheelchairs can join us for the first half mile of the hike. Bring water, snacks, sun protection, and your sense of wonder!

River ‘S’ Unit Events - 1071 S Hillhurst RD

• 9 AM – 1 PM – Vancouver Audubon Spotting Scopes

  • Join Vancouver Audubon for a free and easy birding experience on the River ‘S’ Unit Auto Tour. We’ll have spotting scopes set up just beyond the Hunt Gate to give you a close-up look at migrating and resident birds. Drive through the gate and park in the lot to the left. Stop by anytime between 9 AM and 1 PM to enjoy this unique viewing opportunity during BirdFest & Bluegrass!

• 9 AM & 11 AM – Vancouver Audubon Family Birding Hike on the Kiwa Trail

  • Meet at the Kiwa Trail Parking Lot and trailhead, approximately halfway through the Refuge Auto Tour, allow yourself time in case the Auto Tour is busy.

• All Day – River S Unit Auto Tour & Kiwa Trail