A birder’s heaven, this 2088-acre refuge run by the US Fish and Wildlife Service is one of the valley’s most beautiful spots. Lakes, wetlands, thorny bushes and palms combine for a bucolic setting where the only noises come from birds. The refuge is the seasonal home to almost 400 avian species, and hundreds of butterfly species have been spotted here as well.
Tram tours are popular, but to really experience the place, head out on foot on some of the 12 miles of trails. Short, looping wooden boardwalks are a breeze for the time-challenged; Spanish moss-draped ash, cedar and elm trees shade the lovely trail, which leads to Willow Lakes. Don't miss the rope bridge to an observation tower. Note that bugs here can make vultures seem tame.
