Premier Pacific Northwest Birdwatching National Parks

Located in Washington, this park offers a stunning variety of ecosystems from rainforests to alpine peaks, supporting diverse species like Marbled Murrelets and variations of the Northern Spotted Owl. The Hoh Rainforest provides a unique microclimate ideal for spotting moss owls and woodpeckers.

While technically a new national park unit, the San Juan Islands are premier destinations for birdwatchers seeking seabirds and raptors. It is famous for sightings of Peregrine Falcons, Bald Eagles, and seasonal migrants like the Golden-crowned Kinglet along the coastal cliffs.

This Washington landmark features subalpine meadows that attract a wide array of migratory birds during spring and summer. Birders can find White-tailed Ptarmigan, Dark-eyed Juncos, and various warblers amidst the towering peaks and glacier-fed streams.

Known as the 'American Alps,' this rugged terrain in Washington hosts species adapted to high elevations and dense forests. It is a key location for observing the American Dipper, Steller's Jays, and various owl species in the deep, shadowy valleys.

Situated in Oregon, this park offers high-altitude viewing opportunities for birds such as the Golden Eagle and Red-tailed Hawk. The surrounding montane forests provide critical habitat for Black-backed Woodpeckers and varied thrushes in a starkly beautiful landscape.

Although technically a National Forest rather than a National Park, this Oregon wilderness area is often grouped with top NW birding sites. It is renowned for its isolated high-elevation lakes and forests, hosting species like the White-headed Woodpecker and Gray-crowned Rosy Finch.

This site in Washington offers a fascinating contrast between barren volcanic landscapes and regenerating forests, attracting pioneering bird species. Observers can spot birds like the Brown Creeper and Song Sparrow adapting to the unique post-eruption environment.

Expanding beyond the core park, this complex of protected areas in Washington provides extensive shoreline and mountain habitats. It is excellent for waterfowl observation along the lakes and raptor watching in the steep canyonlands, including Osprey and Bald Eagles.

Often overshadowed by the mountains, this Oregon landmark is a hotspot for observing raptors, particularly Peregrine Falcons and Red-tailed Hawks. The steep cliff faces and surrounding oak savannas offer diverse habitats for both raptors and ground-dwelling species.

Located in central Oregon, this monument features high desert landscapes that attract specialized birds like the Sage Grouse and Sage Thrasher. The varied geological formations provide open spaces ideal for scanning raptors and ground-foraging species.

Situated in Washington along the Columbia River, this site offers critical riparian habitat for birdwatchers. It is particularly noted for its concentration of Great Blue Herons, Egrets, and various tern species during migration seasons along the riverbanks.

This park in Washington combines historical significance with exceptional birdwatching along the coast. It is a prime spot for observing seabirds like Pigeon Guillemots and Pelagic Cormorants, as well as migratory shorebirds along the sandy beaches.

Located at the mouth of the Columbia River in Oregon and Washington, this park protects critical habitat for shorebirds and waterfowl. Birders can spot Marbled Godwits, Dunlins, and various herons in the estuarine environments explored by the historic expedition.

Adjacent to Olympic National Park in Washington, this refuge protects important coastal habitats for migratory birds. It is an excellent site for observing waterfowl, shorebirds, and seabirds, including the rare Marbled Murrelet nesting in nearby forests.

Part of the Pacific Rim National Recreation Trail in Oregon, this dune and headland complex attracts diverse seabirds. Birdwatchers can spot Western Gulls, Black Oystercatchers, and occasionally rare vagrants along the rugged coastline.

While not a single national park, this designated area in Washington and Oregon is a world-class birding destination. The steep cliffs and dense forests support nesting Peregrine Falcons, Brown Creeper, and a wide variety of raptors and songbirds.

Bordering Mount Rainier's neighbor, this Oregon area offers high-elevation birding opportunities. It is known for sightings of Steller's Jays, Clark's Nutcrackers, and various finches in the subalpine zones surrounding the iconic peak.

This Washington mountain pass provides access to diverse habitats ranging from dense coniferous forests to open meadows. It is a good spot for observing varied species like Pileated Woodpeckers, Steller's Jays, and wintering birds such as White-headed Woodpeckers.

Located in Oregon, this vast forest encompasses old-growth trees and diverse elevations, supporting a rich bird population. Birders can find Pileated Woodpeckers, Northern Spotted Owls, and a variety of warblers in the mature timber habitats.

Bordering Mount St. Helens, this Washington forest offers a mix of disturbed and regenerating habitats that attract pioneering bird species. It is suitable for observing Brown Creepers, Song Sparrows, and various raptors in the recovering landscapes.