Pacific Northwest Nature Photographers Events
Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, February 21st, 2004
On Saturday, February 21st Pacific Northwest Nature Photographers will be treated to a 2-hour private tram around Nortwest Trek Nature Park. Following our tour, we'll have access to the walking areas in the park for the rest of the day.
“This 615-acre park has a little bit of everything: lakes, trails, meadows and plenty of animals. Northwest Trek is home to more than 200 North American animals.”
The Park has two sections. The upper section has the predators—cats, wolves, birds—accessible via sidewalks. The lower section has the ungulates—elk, bison, deer, big horn sheep—accessible only by tram.
The private Photo tram is driven by an experience photographer; we'll have two hours to make stops along the route. The tram is covered, however they remove the windows for maximum photographability during the Photo Tour.
Itinerary
The Tram will leave promptly at 9:00am, so let's plan on meeting in the parking lot no later than 8:30am.
On the Tram we'll see elk, deer, longhorn sheep, mountain goat, sandhill crane, and bison.
After the tram tour—around 11:00am—let's plan on hitting the Fir Bough Cafe for a bite to eat before moving on to the walking tour.
After lunch we'll do the self-guided Walking Tour. This should take us a few hours and fill out the remainder of the day.
What to Expect
February in the Northwest could bring any kind of weather, so plan on layered clothing. Some form of rain protection might be helpful just in case. We'll be protected in the tram in the morning. We should be able to go back to the parking lot to get extra clothing for the walking tour.
The pathways are paved and suitable for wheelchair and stroller access. In mid-February, it should not be too crowded.
Photo Gear Planning
Although the tram will stop periodically, it will be challenging if not impossible to set up tripods. So plan on fast film/iso and hand held shooting. Consider medium-long FAST lenses—70mm-200mm or 80mm-400mm—VR or IS would definitely benefit. A monopod may be useful.
For the walking tour, consider bringing your longer lenses. I shot with a 300mm and could have used just a bit more reach at times. Most displays are in forested areas so you'll need fast lenses. Fill flash may be useful for high contrast areas.
Tram and Admission Cost
The cost for up to 15 people is $385. We're close to that number already judging by the responses in the forum. The more that come the less it will cost per person. Let's plan on the cost being somewhere between $25 and $35. I've prepaid for the event; I'll bring some change along and will also accept checks from you.
The cost includes the tram ride and admission to the park for the whole day.
Directions to the Park
Northwest Trek Wildlife Park
11610 Trek Dr. E.
Eatonville, WA 98374
(360) 832-6117
Northwest Trek is 55 miles south of Seattle on the way to Mt. Rainier National Park in the town of Eatonville.
Here are driving directions from Seatac Airport and Portland International Airport:
Need more info?
Check out Nortwest Trek Nature Park website for all the information you need about the park including trail maps and the types of animals.
Send me an email if you have any questions or want more information.
Looking forward to seeing you there!
Suggestion for an event?
Please contact PNWNP Regional Coordinator with suggestions for events or meeting locations for the group.