So, you’ve got the day to spend with your family, and you’re hoping to learn something about the natural world and maybe yourself within it. A day in Pierce County is a gift with a no-return policy, so consider packing up the car and shipping out to the Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, a 725-acre wildlife park home to, among others, Roosevelt elk, grizzly bears, snowy owls, and a temporary troll population (you read that correctly).
Near Eatonville, about an hour from Seattle–Tacoma International Airport depending on traffic, the park has spent more than 50 years caring for native Northwest wildlife. Seeing those animals up close makes the conservation work tangible.
The 725-acre park is home to forests, lakes, meadows and more than 40 species of native Northwest animals.
Choose your wildlife adventure
The 435-acre Free-Roaming Area sets Northwest Trek apart. Caribou graze, bighorn sheep butt heads during their rut, and American bison wander through forest, hills and meadows. Ride the electric tram with general admission, reserve a guided Wild Drive in your own vehicle, or head off-road with a keeper on a Jeep tour.
The Keeper Adventure Tour lasts 90 minutes and is for ages 5 and older. Premier tours require reservations and include walking-path admission, but not a separate tram ride. Bears, cats and other walking-path residents are a separate part of your visit.
Hold on tight and bring your camera if you opt for the Keeper Adventure Jeep tour.
On foot, explore habitats for cats, canines, bears and birds. Among the park’s rescued animals are cougars Sullivan and Sienna. Sullivan was found near Spokane in March 2025, dehydrated and malnourished; later examinations revealed a foot injury. Sienna was rescued in New Mexico and cared for at ABQ BioPark before moving to Northwest Trek. Keepers reported that the pair bonded well, and Sullivan’s May 2026 wellness check found a healthy juvenile.
Sullivan has grown considerably since his rescue as a cub in March 2025.
Enrichment is part of daily animal care. In the park’s explanation of enrichment, keeper Haley, coordinator of its Behavioral Husbandry Committee, describes the idea: “Enrichment items are things like food, smells, or toys that enhance the health and well-being of the animals in our care,” Haley said.
In tandem with knowledge of a species' natural behavior, enrichment items enable a resident animal to exhibit control over its environment in much the same way that we humans do. This means that during your time at the park, you may see bears foraging for fruits and vegetables in trees, or gathering materials for their coming hibernation. Meanwhile, wolves may follow scent trails to hidden meals or use scents to communicate territory. Activities like these support the animals’ health and well-being.
A little climbing for the kids
When the kids need to move, Kids’ Trek gives them room to climb, scramble and build. A 20-foot replica tree trunk connects to ropes, nets and bridges (do they have an adult time?). Nearby, sticks and wooden blocks give young builders material for their own creations.
Meet eight visiting trolls
Keep an eye out for eight unusual visitors. Trolls: A Field Study opened October 15, 2026, and runs through January 24, 2027. Danish artist Thomas Dambo made these characters from recycled materials, turning discarded wood into something with plenty of personality.
Seven trolls are reached on foot; Valle is in the Free-Roaming Area, visible on a tram or premier vehicle tour. The exhibit is included with park admission or membership. Check the park’s hours and tour reservations before setting out.
Look for Valle, the sleepy troll, in the Free-Roaming Area during your tram ride or premier vehicle tour.
Between wildlife encounters, keeper talks and a little troll spotting, there’s plenty here to carry home. Kids can make an early connection with wildlife, and grown-ups might find a new reason to pay attention on their next neighborhood walk.
That’s a good use of a family day out.
by Alex Hernandez
