This October, come celebrate National Wildlife Refuge Week at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge with a variety of fun, family-friendly events! From October 13th to 19th, the Friends of Parker River NWR are hosting exciting activities that will connect you to the refuge’s incredible ecosystems while promoting health and wellness. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a beautiful place to explore, we’ve got something for everyone.

Event Highlights

Walk for the Wild 5K Challenge 
**PLEASE CLICK HERE FOR THE LATEST WEATHER RELATED SCHEDULE UPDATES**

This year’s flagship event is the Walk for the Wild 5K Challenge! Join the Friends of Parker River NWR Team and take part in this nationwide event designed to get people moving while supporting wildlife conservation. Participate at your own pace, anytime during the week of October 13-19, by walking, hiking, or biking 5 kilometers on one of the refuge’s many scenic trails. 

Register today and join the challenge: Walk for the Wild 5K Challenge

Nature Activities and Downloadable Event Handouts
We’ve made sure you have access to detailed, mobile-optimized maps to enhance your experience. Download the routes and checklists for these family-friendly challenges below and bring them along on your phone or tablet.

Guided Refuge Events on October 13^th

• Guided History Tour: Kick off the celebration with a guided bike ride around the refuge, starting at 10 a.m. Or, explore the history of Stage Island on a guided history tour.
  • Stage Island Trail Map

• Self-Guided 5K Dike Hike & Scavenger Hunt: Enjoy a 5K dike hike or try your hand at the scavenger hunt—both of which can be enjoyed at your own pace from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Scavenger Hunt Bingo Card for Kids 

• Self-Guided Adventures All Week: From October 13th to 19th, enjoy self-guided activities like the Hellcat Trail hike, gravel bike rides to Nelson’s and Sawyer islands, and a road bike ride to Plum Island Lighthouse. This is your chance to explore the natural beauty of Parker River at your own pace.
  • Hellcat Trail Map
  • Walk for the Wild Birding Checklist
  • Refuge Road Bike Route
  • Gravel Bike Route – Stockyard to Nelson and Sawyer Islands
  • Refuge to Plum Island Light Bike Route

By participating in these events, you’re not only promoting your own well-being but also supporting wildlife conservation efforts across the country. All events are free, and donations are welcomed to help further protect these incredible habitats.

We look forward to seeing you on the trails and hope you’ll join us in celebrating National Wildlife Refuge Week! For more information, feel free to contact Ted Olsson at tedolsson@parkerriver.org.

Quick and Easy Registration

Scan the QR code below to register for Walk for the Wild 2024!

Directions to Parker River National Wildlife Refuge

Getting to the Refuge is simple! Follow these directions or use the interactive map link below for easy navigation:

• From I-95: Take Exit 57 and head east on Route 113. Continue onto Route 1A South, and then turn left onto Rolfe’s Lane. Drive 2 miles to reach the Refuge entrance.
• Interactive Google Map.