Nestled near Corvallis, Oregon, the William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge is a hidden gem that perfectly combines the tranquility of nature with incredible opportunities for photography. On a crisp, clear morning, I packed my camera, slung my Nikon 55mm-300mm lens over my shoulder, and set off on a hiking adventure with my friend to explore this natural haven.

The refuge greeted us with its quiet beauty lush wetlands, golden meadows, and stands of oak and fir trees creating a picturesque backdrop. As someone who thrives on autumn and winter adventures, this cool, late winter day was perfect for immersing ourselves in nature’s subtle charm.

Exploring the Trails

We began our journey on the Homer Campbell Memorial Trail, a boardwalk that cuts through serene wetlands and offers views of the wildlife-rich ponds. This trail was ideal for photography; the golden hues of dried grasses contrasted beautifully with the deep blue of the water. My friend and I stopped often, our cameras aimed at waterfowl gliding effortlessly across the surface.

From there, we ventured onto the Woodpecker Loop Trail. The tall, ancient oaks were home to countless birds, and the rhythmic sound of woodpeckers tapping echoed through the trees. I snapped a series of photos here, focusing on the interplay of light and shadow across the bark and the occasional flurry of wings as birds darted from branch to branch.

The highlight of the day was the abundance of wildlife. The refuge is a sanctuary for wintering waterfowl, and we spotted flocks of Canada geese and pintails resting in the wetlands. My Nikon lens got a workout capturing these moments, from the soft ripples of ducks diving to the distant silhouettes of bald eagles perched in towering trees.

Hiking with a friend who shares your love for the outdoors is always special. We took turns spotting photo opportunities and admiring the small details we might have otherwise missed. Whether it was the vibrant moss carpeting tree trunks or the delicate frost clinging to blades of grass, the refuge provided endless inspiration.

Capturing the Essence of the Day

As the sun dipped lower on the horizon, casting golden light over the wetlands, I felt a deep sense of peace. We lingered on the Mill Hill Loop, marveling at the changing colors of the sky reflected in the water. With every click of my camera, I aimed to capture not just the beauty of William L. Finley but the connection I felt to the land and its inhabitants.

The day was a reminder of why I started Nerdy Viking Photography: to reconnect with nature, document its wonders, and share those moments with others. This adventure at the refuge was not just about photography; it was about being present, appreciating the little things, and creating memories with a friends who shares the same passion.