Mary E. Theler Wetlands Nature Preserve

Belfair, WA

Directions: From Shelton follow SR 3 north for 22.5 miles to the Mary E. Theler Early Learning Center located on your left (0.4 mile north of junction with SR 106). Park at the center; trailhead located at southwest end of parking lot.

Ownership: Washington Department of Natural Resources
Trail Distance: 3 miles of trails 
Difficulty: easy and ADA accessible
Fees/Permits: None
Notes: Kid-friendly, dogs prohibited

The Mary E. Theler Wetlands protects 139 acres of wildlife rich estuary in the Union River Delta at the farthest reaches of fjord-like Hood Canal. The Washington Department Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) own several hundred acres of abutting land protecting even more of this important ecosystem. The preserve contains five distinct trails that utilize levees and bridges across channels and creeks. The main path leads to a Wetlands Project (education) Center and a native plant demonstration garden. From here the other trails radiate across the preserve.

The bird watching is excellent here year round with trails leading to exceptional view points along the estuary and its varied habitat of marshes, meadows and riparian forests. Look for goldeneyes, grebes, mergansers, green-winged teals, northern pintails, ruddy ducks and American wigeons.  Bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, ospreys, and short-eared owls are also commonly seen at the preserve. Great blue herons and swallows are ubiquitous and the latter can often be seen perched along the boardwalk railings. And take time to enjoy gorgeous views of the southern Olympic Mountain peaks between identifying birds