Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory, Duluth, MN

Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory in located in Duluth, Minnesota where visitors are able to see migrating raptors. Each year these birds will come from their winter destinations towards their summer breeding grounds. Some of the birds that travel through the observatory have flown as far south as South America and as far north as the Arctic. A plethora of birds will sit on the western tip of Lake Superior before flying on.

Since most raptors like to have land in sight they will travel southwest along the shoreline of Lake Superior rather than directly over it. This means the bluffs in East Duluth make a perfect place for observing the birds like the peregrine falcon and gyrfalcon.

Certain days are going to be better than others to see the migrating birds. Southerly or easterly winds typically stop the larger birds from flying, but other birds will fly lower making them easier to see. With northwest winds one can see thousands of birds on the migratory path.

Kestrels, hawks, and broad winged hawks tend to fly in mid August to the south. Red tailed and rough legged hawks along with eagles will be the last to migrate in December. Peak migration is from September to late October which fits within the autumn season. There are fifteen days in September that are the best with thousands of birds flying from 8am to 4pm,though the most birds fly between 10am and 2pm between September 10th and 25th.

Visitors should bring binoculars with them to the observatory. Chairs are also a must have if one plans to stay for a long time. There are very little seating areas created for the public, so a chair to sit on the ridge is very helpful for a day out. Some rocks are available for sitting as well. Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory provides hiking trails, though these trails are rugged. Visitors should be comfortable walking and hiking around boulders. The paths are not for the faint of heart.

Pets are allowed at the observatory, but they must be on a short leash. Dogs that are friendly towards adults, kids and other dogs are allowed. Those who may chase the birds should not be brought to Hawk Ridge. On the weekends there are food vendors with lunch service. They have vegetarian choices, water, soda, chips, hot drinks, and other foods.

Hawk Ridge is just a place of land with no buildings. This means facilities on site are portable and only available during the fall migratory season. There is some staff located at the ridge that provides demonstrations with banded raptors. There is no charge for coming to Hawk Ridge. However, they do take donations and visitors can become members to help protect the birds, provide support, and research programs. The main overlook for Hawk Ridge is off of Skyline Parkway providing a leisurely drive through Duluth and some of the more beautiful sections found in the city. There is a large parking area at the main overlook.