Fall Weekend Public Programs at Hawk Ridge
Hawk Ridge New Accessible Trail Discovery
The new universally accessible trail at Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve was completed in the summer of 2026! This trail is part of the larger Hawk Ridge Facilities Improvement Plan to provide more accessible, safe, education space for the enjoyment of all ages and abilities at Hawk Ridge. Join a Hawk Ridge Naturalist to explore the new trail and participate in some fun on trail activities, while learning about birds, plants, and other species that you may find!
Suggested $5 donation
Location: Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve – meet Naturalist at the main overlook – announcement will be made for tour (approx. address 3980 E Skyline Pkwy, Duluth, MN)
What to Bring: Any outdoor gear to best assist you along the 0.6 mile trail. Features of the approx. the trail includes a firm crushed stone surface, minimal slope, and wide path.
*NOTE – “New Accessible Trail Discovery” Repeats every Saturday & Sunday 10-11am 9/5-10/25 (except Hawk Weekend Festival 9/18-9/20 – see festival program schedule)
Eyes on the Skies Program
Hawk Ridge has a fascinating history (over 50 years and counting!) as one of the top bird migration spots in the US. An average of 60,000 raptors and over 200,000 non-raptors are counted at Hawk Ridge each fall. What forces are behind this great migration and how can you tell who’s who? Join us to learn more about Hawk Ridge, this incredible flyway, and how to recognize the birds flying by.
Suggested $5 donation
Location: Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve – Outdoor Education Program Area (approx. address 3980 E Skyline Pkwy, Duluth, MN)
What to Bring: Outdoor gear to be comfortable while seated on wood benches in a non-shaded program area. Portion of program may include short hike on accessible trail.
“Eyes on the Skies” Repeats every Saturday & Sunday 11am-12pm 9/5-10/25 (except Hawk Weekend Festival 9/18-9/20 – see festival program schedule)
Naturalist Choice Program
So many topics to address in the world of birds, and our naturalists can provide you with many new areas to explore. Join one of our resident bird nerds for a bird adventure that might explore how kestrels and dragonflies are connected, or use our ears to learn about what the birds are saying through their varied vocalizations, or find out why Hawk Ridge is a Goshawk Hotspot, or why Ravens and Crows and the rest of their family are some of the most intelligent birds on the planet. Look for titles posted at the daily program board at the Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve Main Overlook or ask staff what’s on the schedule for today’s Naturalist Choice. NOTE: program is primarily seated on benches
Suggested $5 donation
Location: Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve – Outdoor Education Program Area (approx. address 3980 E Skyline Pkwy, Duluth, MN)
What to Bring: Outdoor gear to be comfortable while seated on wood benches in a non-shaded program area. Portion of program may include short hike on accessible trail.
*NOTE – “Naturalist Choice” Repeats every Saturday & Sunday 1-2pm 9/5-10/25 (except Hawk Weekend Festival 9/18-9/20 – see festival program schedule)
Summit Ledges Hike
Join Hawk Ridge Naturalist Staff for a fall hike to Summit Ledges. Why do experienced hawkwatchers at Hawk Ridge head for Summit Ledges? Why is the North Shore of Lake Superior such a great route for hawk migration? What does geology have to do with it all? Join us for a guided Summit Ledges hike through fascinating geology, and unique forest types to Summit Ledges where the whole valley opens up and birds are often visible flying right over your head.
Suggested $5 donation
Location: Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve – meet Naturalist at the main overlook – announcement will be made for hike (approx. address 3980 E Skyline Pkwy, Duluth, MN)
What to Bring: Hiking boots/shoes, poles, and other gear to assist is recommended. Portions of this hike on a rugged, rocky trail with uneven terrain, hilly elevation.
*NOTE – “Summit Ledges Hike” Repeats every Saturday & Sunday 2-3:30pm 9/5-10/25 (except Hawk Weekend Festival 9/18-9/20 – see festival program schedule)