Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge

January is, statistically, the unhappiest month of the year. Experts point to “weather” and “personal finances” as the cause of this widespread malaise (I’m sure followed closely by: “all I’m eating are vegetables and these ankle weights are killing me why oh why do I make this resolution every year”).

So the resource recommendation this month is one that 1. Will get you outside. 2. Is cheap. 3. Involves physical activity (ankle weights optional). I’m talking about taking a visit to the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge.

Never been? You’re missing out on a Puget Sound treasure. Located just south of Dupont and North of Lacey (26 min drive from the FBC parking lot), Nisqually offers miles of walking paths through vibrant saltwater marsh habitat. And I’m talking VIBRANT. Most places feel dead in January, but winter is when Nisqually comes alive. Thousands of wintering waterfowl can be seen winging overhead (we spotted four different species of Canada geese last time we were there) and the flooded fields near the barns will be crowded with colorful ducks of every variety. As you follow the gravel path past the barns, you’ll find the mile-estuary boardwalk. Walk it to the end and YOU’LL feel alive. That’s what two hours of breathing the bracing air over a tidal marsh will do to you. Assuming you staved off the hypothermia.

All these paths are stroller-friendly, which makes this a great outing for little kids, but leave the dog at home (no canines allowed on the refuge to keep the birds undisturbed). You will also need to scrounge $5 in change from the couch cushions to pay the parking fee. But this price is well worth the opportunity to hear the praises of God’s creation echoing his glory with honks and whistles and quacks and howls (we watched a pair of coyotes attempt to pounce on mice in the long grass beside the path for 20 mins last winter). Read Psalm 148 to get psyched up, pack your warmest coat, and we’ll see you on the boardwalk.