Pathfinder National Wildlife Refuge

Pathfinder National Wildlife Refuge is a nature reserve in Wyoming that stretches across a reservoir valley, combining marsh areas with sagebrush plains. The site offers diverse habitats for waterfowl, raptors, and other animals that rely on both water and land.

The refuge was established in 1928 following the construction of a dam in 1909 that created the river's first large water storage area. This early water management project indirectly helped develop the wetlands that later became protected for wildlife.

The refuge shelters thousands of migratory birds that rest here during their long journeys across the continent. You can watch flocks arrive and depart with the changing seasons, which shape the rhythm of the land.

Hunting and fishing are allowed in designated areas, though visitors must follow local rules and regulations. Check conditions before you go, as access and activities change with the seasons.

The location experiences extreme temperature swings from intense summer heat to bitter winter cold, revealing how animals and plants adapt to harsh conditions. This harsh climate makes the refuge a place where survival skills are put to the test.

Location: Natrona County

Inception: 1928

Operator: US Fish and Wildlife Service

Website: https://fws.gov/refuge/pathfinder

GPS coordinates: 42.48780,-106.98000

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:01