Wiley Slough

Photography

Best light

Morning lightOvercast

Recommended focal length

400–600mm

• The blind gives you cover and a steady rest for herons and ducks working the channels.
• A rising tide pushes water and birds up the channels toward the dike.
• Wind across the open marsh is common; a beanbag or monopod helps with long lenses.

Access

Parking

Two WDFW lots at the unit entrance. From Fir Island Road, turn south onto Wylie Road and follow the signs.

Trails

About 2.5 miles round trip on a wide, flat gravel dike, with a wheelchair-accessible bird blind early on the west side. Open and often windy.

Restrictions

• A Discover Pass or WDFW Vehicle Access Pass is required.
• Waterfowl hunting takes place from fall into winter; signs mark the hunting areas, so wear bright clothing and check WDFW season dates.
• The unit has closed after floods before; check WDFW for closures after heavy rain or high water on the Skagit.
• Keep dogs leashed.

Before you go

• Lens: 400–600mm. Pack spare batteries; cold drains them fast.
• Review the access restrictions above and any posted closures.
• Check the weather and, on the shoreline, the tide forecast.
• Keep a respectful distance. If an animal changes its behavior, you're too close.