Franz Lake National Wildlife Refuge

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is home to the Franz Lake National Wildlife Refuge. The 590 acres of the refuge is comprised of riparian and transitional woodlands, as well as riverine wetlands. There are also open meadows, native understory shrub communities and streams. Wildlife that makes Franz Lake home include tundra swans, great blue herons, gulls, bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, and numerous waterfowl and songbirds. The refuge does not have access to motor vehicles but there is an observation platform nearby that provides spectacular views of the scenic landscape, waterfowl, and surrounding beautiful scenery of the Columbia River Gorge.