Visit the Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve

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When is the Best Time to Visit?

Hawks begin migrating past Hawk Ridge in mid-August and continue through November. The "Big Days", when we can get tens of thousands of Broad-winged Hawks flying over, generally occur from September 10-25. Click here to see the raptor count numbers. Of course, we do get raptors flying over every day during the fall, except when it's raining!

Hawkwatching, unlike most other wildlife activities, is best during the middle of the day. Generally, the raptors don't start flying until 8am, and they taper off after 4pm. So plan your trip during the middle of the day: between 10am and 2pm is best.

Weather plays a huge factor in the quality of the flight. Winds from the west or northwest are best for bringing us big numbers of birds. If you come up on a day with south or east winds, expect the flight to be slower.

What do we Need to Bring?

Binoculars are a must! At times the hawks are so far away, or are soaring so high that they are impossible to see with the naked eye. The overlook staff has binoculars to loan.

Dress for the weather! Weather is always more extreme at the Main Overlook on Hawk Ridge. Make sure to bring warm, windproof clothing. Of course, it does get sunny & hot on the Ridge, too, so bring some sunscreen & a hat with a brim in case of balmy weather (but don't worry about this in October!).

Bring a chair! We do not provide seating, although there are large rocks available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

If you plan to do any hiking on the Hawk Ridge trails, hiking boots are a good choice; at the very least, tennis shoes must be worn. The trails are very rugged.

What Amenities are Available?

Food vendor service is available for lunch every weekend from mid-September through mid-October, selling burgers, brats, hot dogs, vegetarian choices, water, soda, chips, and hot drinks.

A portable toilet is also available during the fall season.

What Activities are Available?

The Hawk Ridge overlook staff are available at the main overlook every day during September and October. Demonstrations with banded raptors and passerines, "adoptions", and releases regularly take place. The overlook staff are also on site to help with hawk identification, answer questions, and sell Hawk Ridge merchandise. Regularly scheduled public programs are also available throughout the season.

You will also notice the hawk counters on the Main Overlook; however, they are searching the sky & counting the thousands of raptors that fly past Hawk Ridge, so please direct any questions/comments to a naturalist or a volunteer. Some fun links:

Cost and Parking:

There is no charge, although donations are gladly accepted. The main overlook is located along Skyline Parkway, a city roadway in Duluth. Access is by car and parking is available along the roadway near the main overlook.

Questions?

Direct additional questions to mail@hawkridge.org or call us at 218.428.6209.