Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve

Minnesota · Midwest

Habitat
Mountain
Best Seasons
SpringFall
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

Entrance Fee

Free (donations welcome)

Hours

Open daily; main hawk watching season Aug-Nov

About This Location

Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve is a productive birding destination in Minnesota, with 254 species recorded on eBird. This mountain habitat attracts Mallard, Hairy Woodpecker, and American Crow among many others. Spring migration along the Mississippi and Central Flyways makes this a vital stopover for diverse species.

Location

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Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Notable Sightings

Rare or unusual species spotted nearby in the last 14 days

Barrow's Goldeneye

Bucephala islandica

3/2/2026Duluth--Canal Park1 observed

Northern Pintail

Anas acuta

3/2/2026Lester River Mouth1 observed

Cooper's Hawk

Astur cooperii

3/1/20269005 Lenroot Street ( home )1 observed

Trumpeter Swan

Cygnus buccinator

2/27/2026Cloquet River bridge, Munger Shaw Rd6 observed

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Mallard

153/2/2026

Hairy Woodpecker

13/2/2026

American Crow

13/2/2026

Common Raven

13/2/2026

Black-capped Chickadee

23/2/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Bring layers as mountain weather changes rapidly at elevation.

  2. 2

    Check exposed ridges and thermals for soaring raptors and swifts.

  3. 3

    Time your visit during the first week of May for maximum species diversity.

  4. 4

    Check eBird hotspot data before visiting to see recent sightings and what species are being reported.

  5. 5

    Bring quality optics — a good pair of binoculars (8x42 or 10x42) makes all the difference in species identification.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve for birding?
The best months to visit Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve?
Notable species at Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve include Mallard, Hairy Woodpecker, American Crow, Common Raven, Black-capped Chickadee, Common Goldeneye, American Herring Gull, Downy Woodpecker, White-breasted Nuthatch, Rock Pigeon, European Starling, Pileated Woodpecker. The area supports mountain habitats.
How difficult is birding at Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve?
Birding at Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
Is there an entrance fee at Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve?
The entrance fee at Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve is Free (donations welcome). Hours: Open daily; main hawk watching season Aug-Nov.
What amenities are available at Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve?
Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.