Paradise preserved

6. Waimea Valley, Hawaii
On Oahu’s North Shore, the Waimea Valley Audubon Center showcases the valley’s unique birds and plants (like the Hawaiian moorhen and the Hibiscus kokio) and acts as a window into traditional Hawaiian culture. Threatened by potential development, the valley was saved by a coalition of public and private groups; the Office of Hawaiian Affairs now has the title to the 1,875-acre valley. Explore miles of trails in a botanical garden, picnic in a rain forest, or swim beneath a 35-foot waterfall. Learn more: www.audubon.org/ or 808/638-9199

7. Madison River, Montana
The Madison River is one of the West’s most famous fly-fishing rivers, and its $3 Fishing Bridge (on the south side of U.S. 287 in the upper Madison Valley) is one of the spots best loved by anglers. The Trust for Public Land has helped save 1,700 acres and walk-in access to more than a mile of the Madison’s heart. And downriver, at Sun Ranch, TPL and a raft of activists are working to save 12,000 more acres. For anglers, it’s cold, clear fishing heaven. Learn more: www.tpl.org/ or 406/994-4042

8. Ojito Wilderness, New Mexico
The first new wilderness designation in this state in more than 15 years encompasses more than 11,000 acres of picturesque arroyos, buttes, and mesas northwest of Albuquerque. Thanks to such groups as the State Land Office, Zia Pueblo, and Sandoval County — both key in supporting the new wilderness designation — you can hike, ride horseback, bird-watch, or just enjoy any type of nonmotorized recreation in the amazing Ojito (it’s managed by the Bureau of Land Management). Learn more: www.nm.blm.gov/ or 505/761-8700

James D. Watt Clouds of reef fish swim amongst corals in the French frigate shoals, Northwestern Hawaiian Islands.

9. Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge, Oregon
Just a short drive from downtown Portland, this is one of Oregon’s newest refuges. The 1,358 acres are home to more than 50 types of mammals and more than 200 species of birds. In late winter and early spring, cackling Canada geese, northern pintails, and mallards blanket the marshlands. Hike newly opened trails, or check out wildlife overlooks, interpretive exhibits, and a wildlife photography blind. Learn more: www.fws.gov/tualatinriver or 503/590-5811

10. Cedar Mountain Wilderness Area, Utah
Its ramparts are peppered with junipers, which resemble cedar trees — hence the mountain’s name. But this new wilderness area is also peppered with wildlife: golden eagles, pronghorns, and wild horses. Saving a chunk of open space this close to Salt Lake City is a boon anytime, but Cedar’s preservation also foils plans for a nuclear-waste dump nearby. Hike sage-covered hills, explore rugged gorges, or just drink in Great Basin views. The area is run by the Bureau of Land Management.  Learn more: www.ut.blm.gov/ or 801/977-4300

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