Trout Lake Natural Area Preserve

This pond is one of only seven in Wa. that hosts the Oregon Spotted Frog.
This 2,014-acre preserve serves several critical conservation features. It is one of six known areas in Washington where Sandhill cranes (Grus canadensis) (a state endangered species) can be found nesting. This NAP also hosts Washington's second largest population of Oregon Spotted Frog (Rana pretiosa) (a federally threatened species with a small number of existing populations throughout the state). The entire site, including the marsh habitat and adjacent forested uplands, is one of the highest quality mid-elevation wetland ecosystems in south-central Washington, providing vital habitat for hundreds of wildlife species. Over 150 species of birds have been recorded on the site, including many neotropical migratory species of conservation concern. It is part of the Pacific Flyway, providing important feeding and resting habitat for migratory waterfowl such as redhead ducks (Aythya americana), cinnamon teal (Anas cyanoptera), hooded mergansers (Lophodytes cucullatus), and pied-billed grebe (Podilymbus podiceps). Several rare plant species listed below are found in seasonal wetland and oak woodland habitats on the preserve.

Features Protected: Oregon spotted frog, Sandhill crane, pale blue-eyed grass, Pulsifer's monkey-flower, Parry's knotweed (Polygonum parryi), rosy owl-clover.

Ecoregion: East Cascades (Klickitat County)

Science, Research and Monitoring

Public and private universities, other research institutions and individual researchers may contact DNR to propose a research project at the site. If you are interested in pursuing research at Trout Lake NAP, please contact David Wilderman, natural areas ecologist, at david.wilderman@dnr.wa.gov

Examples of research and monitoring projects
Spring color abloom in bright purple.

Environmental Education and Public Access

Trout Lake Natural Area Preserve has a primitive trail with interpretive signs and benches for viewing wildlife and surrounding forest. A small overlook trail offers great views of the wetland and surrounding area. Non-motorized boats are allowed in Trout Creek, except during a seasonal closure for water access from April 1- June 1 to protect nesting birds. To help conserve the ecology of this preserve dogs are allowed on leash along the trail only, no water access. Limited parking to 2 vehicles and no trailer turnaround access. Stewards are available by request to lead educational field trips, as time permits. A Trout Lake NAP Brochure is available. For more information, contact the DNR Southeast Region natural areas manager.

Directions to the Site

From SR 14 on the Columbia River, turn north onto Highway 141 to the city of White Salmon. Continue north along the White Salmon River to the town of Trout Lake, approximately 24 miles. The NAP lies just north of the town and may be accessed by turning north on Lake Road from Highway 141.

A Washington State Discover Pass is required for parking at this site. This funding helps DNR manage these important natural areas across the state.