Kim's Picks: April 2026 Nature Observations & Events

Spring has finally arrived in Washington state. Although March 20^th marked the official calendar date, we here in the state had what we like to call “false spring” from March 10-13th. This is when there is a day or two that arrives after several weeks of various versions of rain and early darkness. It’s false because the day will be sunny, a crisp 50, sometimes 60 degrees, and we emerge from our homes shaking off the moss and staring bewildered at the sky. Mount Rainier may even give us a glimpse. The plants often think Spring has arrived as well and will begin to poke through the soil. Then as if a dream we will be thrust back into winter, or, as in the case this year, finally receive winter. Washington had little snow in the mountains and lowlands this year. That is until the snow finally dumped to all skiers and snowboarders’ delight. We even managed to get just enough in my neighborhood for a Snow Day to most kids’ delight.

Although March 20^th marked the official calendar date, we here in the state had what we like to call “false spring” from March 10-13th.

April is when nature becomes lively again. More birds migrate and nest and the perennials begin to bloom. For those who feel stuck indoors, it is a time to reconnect with the outdoors. In our yards, flower beds and boxes, evening walks, and start of outdoor festivals and farmers markets.

To inspire reconnection, I’ve put together a short list of nature events and activities to take part in. While most of these are focused within the Pacific Northwest, I encourage you to look for similar events in your region.

… it is a time to reconnect with the outdoors. In our yards, flower beds and boxes, evening walks, and start of outdoor festivals and farmers markets.

IN NATURE

BIRD MIGRATION: Lesser Sandhill Cranes, Osprey, Violet-green Swallows, Black-chinned and Calliope Hummingbirds, and Yellow Warblers, along with other various migrating waterfowl.

OTHER ANIMAL ACTIVITY: Mount Rainier Marmots (late April), Roosevelt Elk, and Flounder. Also a great time for viewing butterflies, moths, and other pollinators!

BOTANICALS: East of the mountains, bluebells are at their peak on the Klickitat Trail. Native Dogwoods, Magnolias, Azaleas, and Irises also produce their gorgeous blooms.

EVENTS

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival (April 1 – 30, 2026), Mount Vernon, WA

The Festival runs the whole month of April. There are some free events, such as the parade on April 11 and others you may need to purchase tickets for; particularly the various tulip fields, such as Roozengarde. For insight on how to plan your trip, visit my blog post, 2025 Skagit Valley Tulip Festival | Our Day & Tips for Your Visit

Olympic Bird Fest (April 16-19), Sequim, WA

An annual fundraiser event for the Dungeness River Nature Center in partnership with Olympic Peninsula Audubon Society and the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe. This is perfect for all self-proclaimed bird-nerds like Dennis and myself! While most events do have an entry or registration fee, you can tailor your experience for exactly your pace. Perhaps start with Birds & Brews: A Feathered Trivia Happy Hour on April 16th from 4:00pm - 5:30pm PST. A $10 entry fee includes one free drink. There are all day excursions such as Birds & Beauty: Along the Strait to Salt Creek on April 17 or April 18 ($110). Includes guided walking tour from Ediz Hook to Salk Creek Rec Area. There are even indoor sessions. The Bird Paining in Watercolor with Robert Amaral on April 17th particularly caught my attention. The $50 registration fee includes instruction on techniques while using the River Center's collection of mounts as reference.

Last but not least: Don’t forget about Earth Day (April 22) and Arbor Day (April 25)! Get involved in your local community and give back to Mother Nature.

Comment with the outdoor activities and events you're excited about. Please also like and share this post with your other nature loving friends and family members!

Kim

This post is not sponsored, and all recommendations are based on my personal research and experiences.