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becomes filled with unexpected discoveries. 3801 Discovery Park Boulevard in Magnolia. The Visitor's Center is open 8:30–5:00 pm Tuesday-Sunday. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge An outstanding place to experience nature—birds in particular—as the seasons change lies just off I-5 between Tacoma and Olympia. Little-publicized but adored by birdwatchers and photographers, the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge won't get your heart pounding in an intense hike, but you can walk briskly or leisurely for several flat miles, and the setting feels so tranquil and lovely, you won't mind. November and December bring raptors, waterfowl, geese, and chum salmon into the protected delta. No Frisbees, bikes, kites, or pets—it's a refuge, folks, with endangered species like the Peregrine falcon. Mercer Slough Nature Park In the middle of Belleuve—of all places— is a gem for nature lovers: Mercer Slough Nature Park offers seven miles to hike, walk, or trail run through Lake Washington's largest remaining wetland. Walk by old greenhouses and stumble on the beautiful Winters House, Bellevue's only space on the National Historic Register and home to the Eastside Heritage Society. Paddlers can take a rare canoe tour (rentals available at Enatai Beach Park.) Take home berries or other fresh seasonal produce at the blueberry farm. Franklin Falls If you're willing to drive as far as Snoqualmie pass you won't want to miss exploring Franklin Falls. You'll climb just 200 feet over two miles, making this a very easy hike, but if you can maneuver down the last few feet of rocky trail, you'll be gazing up from the base of a 70-foot waterfall. If the final section is too slippery or treacherous you'll still get a lovely view of the falls and the river from above. This fun hike mysteriously contains no restroom, so go before you go. Bring your Recreation Pass or a $5 vehicle fee, and definitely check trail conditions for snow and ice. National Park If you are up for a day long adventure hop on the Ferry and head over to the Olympic Peninsula. Here you can explore the more than 5,000 square miles of breathtaking fall colors - and see a variety of native wildlife. The Olympic National Park is home to elk, cranes and sea otters which can be seen running in and out of the dense forest. The best views in this area can be found along Hurricane Ridge in the national park.