Near Williams, Colusa Wildlife Refuge’s Three-Mile Drive Offers Fall Birdwatching

WILLIAMS, Colusa County — Residents and visitors looking for an outdoor activity can explore the Colusa National Wildlife Refuge just east of Williams along Highway 20. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provides a three-mile auto tour through wetlands and riparian habitat, with opportunities to observe migratory birds.

The federal visitor guide lists auto-tour access year-round, from one hour before sunrise until one hour after sunset. These hours may change due to maintenance, flooding or emergency restrictions.

How do people reach the viewing area?

FWS directions advise drivers to leave Interstate 5 at the Highway 20 exit in Williams, travel about 6.7 miles east, and turn right onto O’Hair Road. Follow posted refuge directions to the public visitor area. Farm roads and adjacent private lands should not be treated as alternative trailheads.

Stay in the car on the auto tour

The Fish and Wildlife Service requires people to remain inside their vehicles throughout the Colusa auto tour. The posted road speed limit is 15 mph. Walking alongside the tour route is prohibited, and vehicles must follow the one-way sections. These rules limit disturbance to resting and feeding wildlife.

The site offers a separate walking trail and observation facilities. Dogs are allowed under federal rules but must remain inside vehicles during the auto tour. Drones are prohibited on refuge property.

Before the visit

Pack binoculars, drinking water and a camera. FWS says the auto tour has no potable water. Birds are not guaranteed to appear at any given time. See the official refuge visitor page for trail conditions, access policies and seasonal programs. Overnight camping is not permitted on these designated day-use grounds.

Sources: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge Complex Auto Tours and Colusa Refuge Visit Us and Directions materials. No live count of birds or guarantee of day-of access is claimed.

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