Birding Trails Gaining Popularity

Michigan’s five birding trails offer wildlife-viewing adventure

Those looking for an outdoor adventure this spring are encouraged to give birding trails a try! With increasing popularity, birding trails are popping up along Michigan’s scenic roadways. Now with five different trails to explore, for the beginning birder or the seasoned veteran, wildlife-viewing hot spots have never been easier to find and enjoy.

With prime birding areas noted along well-known driving routes, a birding trail is like a treasure hunt for those looking to get out and enjoy Michigan’s outdoors. Birding trail stops are typically in county parks, nature preserves or Department of Natural Resources’ state parks or wildlife areas – allowing access to all who are interested. Visits in May and June will provide the greatest opportunity to witness both migrant and nesting birds. Routes also include many options for amenities such as restaurants, hotels and campgrounds.

Five birding trails, each offering unique experiences, are located around the state:

• Superior Birding Trail – Along Michigan’s oldest birding trail, bird species and other wildlife can be found at 10 sites along 150 miles in the Upper Peninsula, from Seney National Wildlife Refuge to Whitefish Point.
• Sleeping Bear Birding Trail – This new trail is 123 miles long, running from Manistee to Traverse City along the scenic M-22 highway and Lake Michigan shoreline, and contains more than 35 birding sites including a “bonus loop.”
• Beaver Island Birding Trail – “The Emerald Isle of Michigan Birding,” this new trail is located entirely on Lake Michigan’s largest island, encompassing 35 sites on over 100 miles of roads.
• Saginaw Bay Birding Trail – This new, 142-mile trail follows the Lake Huron shoreline, stretching from Port Crescent to Tawas Point State Park with more than 20 birding sites.
• Sunrise Coast Birding Trail – Soaring along the Lake Huron coast, Michigan’s newest trail features 28 sites along its 296-mile route from the Au Sable River in Oscoda to Mackinaw City.

Birding trails promote wildlife viewing and conservation education, and provide economic benefit to local communities. Birding is a great way to enjoy the diversity of Michigan’s wildlife and habitats and to build an appreciation of the state’s unique natural resources. These trails are made possible through the efforts of, and partnerships between, Michigan Audubon chapters, government agencies, land conservancies, private industries and many dedicated individuals working together to create more opportunities to experience the outdoors and visit local communities.

For more information, visit the Michigan Audubon Society birding trail website or www.michigan.gov/wildlife.