Now that the Port of Ridgefield has seen a recovery from its days as a timber processing site, a vision is underway for a thriving hub of community activity. Even before that vision unfolds, we have created a new point of entry for the Refuge, one that connects you from the Port, directly to Carty Lake.

This entry point provides an Information and Fee Station and a fee-free path to a Lake River overlook. Future enhancements will include interpretive panels and a Carty Lake overlook. From this point, you may walk a new trail that travels around Carty Lake and connects with the Oaks-to-Wetlands Trail at the Cathlapotle Plankhouse. The Carty Lake trail is a seasonal trail open annually between May 1st and September 30th.

Latest Update

“Experience Carty Lake Like Never Before” April 29, 2019

Key Dates

May 1, 2019: The Carty Lake trail opened for the first time.

October 1, 2019 to April 30, 2020: The Carty Lake Trail between the Fee Station and Gee Creek is closed to provide sanctuary for wintering swan. The trail opens again on May 1, 2020.

Take a tour of the new trail in this video: