If you’re a wildlife enthusiast in Minnesota, you have plenty of places to explore in hopes of seeing a Minnesota animal. Many drive along the Gunflint Trail to spot moose, bears, and deer. Others stroll through the Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden and Bird Sanctuary to see butterflies and birds fluttering around. And still others hike the trail we’d like to introduce today. The Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory is home to many trails that take you through the forest and into a place where hawks and other raptors soar free. Read on below to learn more about this amazing walk through the woods:
Hawk Ridge is a bird observatory in Duluth, Minnesota. It’s lesser known by out-of-towners, making it a wonderful stop for those looking for a little peace and quiet during their Duluth adventure.
Nels Kristenson/AllTrails
The observatory has many trails through the woods. None are paved, and some include steep areas. Be sure to bring water and wear proper shoes.
Carol Ziel/AllTrails
No matter which trail you take, you’ll pass through some of Duluth’s loveliest natural areas. The wooded paths are shaded under tree branches, making this a lovely place for a sunny day.
Carol Olson/AllTrails
Soon, you’ll emerge into a scenic overlook. There are many on the Hawk Ridge grounds, each offering amazing views of Lake Superior and the city of Duluth far below.
Bethany Reuter/AllTrails
For the views alone, you’ll be glad you visited this place.
Andy Langager/Flickr
But Hawk Ridge, true to its name, is also a prime hawk-watching spot. At the main overlook area, there are often demonstrations with hawks and other birds.
Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory/Facebook
Visitors have an opportunity not only to see these birds soaring high in the sky, but to see them up close. You’ll can learn about their migration habits, how they fly, and much more.
Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory/Facebook
Next time you’re in Duluth, pay a visit to Hawk Ridge. Not only is it a beautiful nature area with outstanding overlooks. It’s also a wonderful place to learn about Minnesota’s animals!
Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory/Facebook
Have you ever been to Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory? For more information about this place and its trails, visit their website and Facebook page. And if you’re looking for even more places to spot wildlife in Minnesota, check out our past articles about the Vince Shute Bear Sanctuary and the International Wolf Center.
Nels Kristenson/AllTrails
Carol Ziel/AllTrails
Carol Olson/AllTrails
Bethany Reuter/AllTrails
Andy Langager/Flickr
Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory/Facebook
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Address: Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory, 3980 E Skyline Pkwy, Duluth, MN 55804, USA
