Olympia Outdoor Activities

With over 1,000 Olympia area members, the Black Hills Audubon Society members share interests in birds and other wildlife, their habitats, and natural history. If you are looking for the best places to view wildlife we know where to look.

Located in the historic community of Boston Harbor. The marina is a quaint northwest establishment offering waterfront access and general marine related services. It's a great place to view the sights, access the water or just have a dockside picnic while enjoying the beauty of the South Sound.

The Washington State department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages 91,560-acre Capitol Forest which is located in west Olympia. Capitol Forest's recreation program provides a safe environment where people can enjoy a primitive recreation experience in a natural forest setting. ATV riders and mountain bikers are welcome.

The Chehalis Western Trail provides access to over 170-acres of Olympia area park land including frontage along the Deschutes River, and features access to the Puget Sound, Chambers Lake, Olympia wetlands, Olympia forests, Olympia farmland, Olympia creeks, prairies, and other habitats. There are 3 different public access areas to the trail.

If you are looking to cool down on a hot day in Olympia, the Heritage Park Fountain, located in downtown Olympia, has over 40 dancing water spouts. The fountain is a favorite among Olympia area visitors and residents.

Mima Mounds, located in southwest Olympia, is a 625-acre protected area and home to bird and butterfly species that only use this habitat. Mimi Mounds is National Natural Landmark which is enjoyed by over 10,000 bird watchers, hikers, and nature tourists each year. Call 360-577-2025 for details.

Yashiro Japanese Garden, located in downtown Olympia, is named after Olympia's sister city in Japan. The gardens offer visitors a quiet, serene setting to enjoy natures beauty. The Olympia garden is an oasis within the City of Olympia. A place to get away from the fast pace of society.