Overview:

It’s a bird-watcher’s paradise that attracts serious - and amateur - enthusiasts from around the world.  Located on tidal marshes at the mouth of the south arm of the Fraser River, this sanctuary is home to Canada’s largest migratory  population of waterfowl, including Snow Geese and Black Crowned Night Herons. May and June best for seeing goslings and ducklings. Shore birds start arriving mid August, followed by Mallard and Pintail ducks. Bird sightings peak in November although with over 263 species which use this major stopover on the Pacific Flyway,  sightings are good year round. At the entrance, get a map of the paths and buy a bag of seed. There are no guides or tours telling you what’s what. Bring a bird book, binoculars and a warm jacket. Remember it’s a refuge, not a tourist attraction, so while there are washrooms and a picnic area, amenities are largely for the birds. Take the path on the dike to see the marshy flatlands of the delta - it’s extraordinary country.

Reifel is only accessible by car, on Westham Island, a 45 minute drive from Vancouver.