
Scattered across North America like individual strings of pearls are birding trails. Some are completed; others are in development; still others are simply in the idea-phase. These trails, covering expanses of roadway across many miles, offer birders, naturalists, and general eco-tourists grand opportunities to explore diverse habitats near home and in distant places. Birding and nature trails are essentially driving-routes linking prime birding locations. The growth of birding trails combines Americans' love of the automobile with the increasing interest in birds, creating access and opportunities. Birding trails, in the words of Bill Shepard (from an article that appeared in the October 2001 issue of Birding) create "gateways to conservation and adventure". The whole birding-trail phenomenon is part of what's been called "birding economics" for many years. This is another demonstration of community involvement and commitment to preserving natural resources based on responsible tourism and bird appreciation. Formal trails are relatively new, having begun in Texas in 1996, when the first of three segments of the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail, the brainchild of Ted Eubanks and Madge Lindsay, were opened. The rest, as they say, is history, with similar trails popping up across North America. The trails, often marked roadways with site-specific stops, fuse regional education, conservation, and ecotourism. Most of these birding trails also have detailed accompanying maps, providing guidance to the sites and to the birds (and usually other wildlife) to be found along the trails.

Colorado Birding Trail, Blue Mesa Reservoir. Photo by Glenn Giroir.
The construction, promotion, and development of birding trails have used various funding sources, sometimes in very creative combination. Often it's state, provincial, and federal agencies, for example, government transportation dollars (TEA-21 funding has been important), state or federal wildlife dollars, and state tourism dollars. Sometimes it's a combination of community foundations, local businesses, non-profit backing, and individual contributions that coalesce to make trails happen.
- Canada
- Alabama – AL
- Alaska – AK
- Arizona – AZ
- Arkansas – AR
- California – CA
- Colorado – CO
- Connecticut – CT
- Delaware – DE
- Florida – FL
- Georgia – GA
- Hawaii – HI
- Idaho – ID
- Illinois – IL
- Indiana – IN
- Iowa – IA
- Kansas – KS
- Kentucky – KY
- Louisiana – LA
- Maine – ME
- Maryland – MD
- Massachusetts – MA
- Michigan – MI
- Minnesota – MN
- Mississippi – MS
- Missouri – MO
- Montana – MT
- Nebraska – NE
- Nevada – NV
- New Hampshire – NH
- New Jersey – NJ
- New Mexico – NM
- New York – NY
- North Carolina – NC
- North Dakota – ND
- Ohio – OH
- Oklahoma – OK
- Oregon – OR
- Pennsylvania – PA
- Rhode Island – RI
- South Carolina – SC
- South Dakota – SD
- Tennessee – TN
- Texas – TX
- Utah – UT
- Vermont – VT
- Virginia – VA
- Washington – WA
- West Virginia – WV
- Wisconsin – WI
- Wyoming – WY
ALABAMA
Alabama Coastal Birding Trail
https://alabamabirdingtrails.com/trails/coastal/
This trail, a series of six loops through two counties, cover a variety of habitats, from the beach and sea-oat habitat of Gulf State Park near Perdido Bay to the maritime pine forest of the Dauphin Island, a hotspot during spring migration, and Fort Morgan, a birding paradise in spring for Neotropical songbirds and in fall for migrating hawks.
Contact: Alabama Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau, PO Drawer 457, Gulf Shores AL 36547; (877) 226-9089.
ALASKA
Southeast Alaska Birding Trail
https://ak.audubon.org/southeast-alaska-birding-trail
Southeast Alaska boasts more than 350 bird species, including the highest densities of Marbled Murrelets and Bald Eagles in the world. In spring, hundreds of thousands of shorebirds stop to feed in the Southeast on their way to their breeding grounds in the Arctic. Tens of thousands of colonial seabirds dot the coast in the summer.
ARIZONA
Arizona Birding Trail
https://arizonabirdingtrail.com/
The Arizona Birding Trail is a partnership between organizations, each of which is dedicated to the conservation of Arizona’s wildlife. Visit our partner’s websites to learn more about great birding and watchable wildlife opportunities they have to offer.
COLORADO
Colorado Birding Trail
www.coloradobirdingtrail.com
The Colorado Division of Wildlife and partners have launched the Colorado Birding Trail. The Colorado Birding Trail is a major ecotourism initiative to promote wildlife recreation, conservation of natural resources by private landowners and a diversified income for rural economies. The Birding Trail links outdoor recreation sites, both public and private, into a network of loops where visitors can observe birds and other wildlife, often in addition to archaeological and paleontological treasures.
When completed the Colorado Birding Trail will consist of 3 regions: Eastern Plains, Mountains, and Western Colorado. Currently, 14 trails linking 219 sites allow users to explore Southeastern Colorado. Nominations are being accepted and assessed for Southwestern Colorado and these trails and sites will launch next.
DELAWARE
Delaware Birding Trail
https://www.delawarebirdingtrail.com/dbt.html
Internationally known as the Shorebird Capital of the world, the bay shoreline along Kent and Sussex counties, in both spring and fall, is teeming with hundreds of thousands of migratory shorebirds. But the abundance of birds calling Delaware home or just taking a needed rest stop does not end with shorebirds. Fall and winter bring hawk migration along with thousands of waterfowl and the snow goose spectacle, and spring and summer begin with colorful migrant songbirds and end with the breeding season.
The Delaware Birding Trail consists of 27 of the best birding sites around the state which will allow a visitor of any age or skill level to see and experience the incredible diversity of species and habitat that Delaware offers.
FLORIDA
The Great Florida Birding Trails (4 of 4)
www.floridabirdingtrail.com
All four sections of the 2,000-mile Great Florida Birding Trail: east, west, panhandle, and south, are now complete, with 445 total sites. The eastern section of the Florida trail is a network of 135 sites spread throughout 18 counties. The western section contains 117 sites in 21 counties, the panhandle section has 78 sites in 16 counties, and the new south section has 116 sites in 12 counties. Birding sites in each section's guide are grouped into 13 to 23 clusters; sites within a cluster are typically within an hour's drive of one another. Such specialties as Swallow-tailed Kite, Limpkin, and Red-cockaded Woodpecker are found along the routes. Great Florida Birding Trail guides are available from FWC and on the GFBT website.
Contact: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, (850) 488-8755, Mark Kiser, Birding Trail Coordinator, FWC, 620 S. Meridian St. 5B4, Tallahassee FL 32399-1600; (850) 488-9478.
GEORGIA
Colonial Coast Birding Trail
https://georgiabirdingtrails.com/colonialcoast
The Colonial Coast trail weaves birding into the state's historical roots, encouraging visitors to stop at Civil War forts and plantations, as well as at freshwater wetlands, woodlands, and tidal rivers. More than 300 species of birds (75 percent of the total species of birds seen in Georgia) have been spotted at the 18 sites along the birding trail-but don't expect to see all of these birds on a single visit. Area specialties include Wood Stork, Clapper Rail, Yellow-throated Warbler, and Painted Bunting. This birding trail winds through beautiful natural areas, from freshwater marshes to sites at the ocean and offers opportunities to see many wading birds, shorebirds, passerines, and others.
IDAHO
Idaho Birding Trail
https://idfg.idaho.gov/ibt
The Idaho Birding Trail consists of 175 sites for birding in Idaho. Each site is highlighted with a map, driving directions, a description of birds likely to be seen, other recreational activities allowed, and best times of the year to bird there. Much of the trail leaves freeways and highways behind, wandering deep into Idaho's rural communities and along backcountry byways. Like hidden treasures, many of the sites were known previously only by local birders.
ILLINOIS
The Chicago Region Birding Trail Guide
https://gl.audubon.org/birds/chicago-region-birding-trail-guide
The Chicago region is one of the country's premier inland birding locations. Our climate and topography allow for a wide range of habitat types, from extensive grasslands to forests to marshes and lakes. The region's proximity to the southern end of Lake Michigan, the Chicago River and large amounts of protected land in public ownership allow easy access for birders. As stewards of our natural environment, the City of Chicago is pleased to share this guide with residents and visitors. We hope that you enjoy good birding on the region's public lands.
Contact: Chicago Department of Environment, 30 N. LaSalle, Ste. 2500, Chicago, IL 60602; (312) 744-9283;
Great River Birding Trail see listing under Minnesota
INDIANA
The Indiana Birding Trail
https://indianabirdingtrail.com/
IOWA
Great River Birding Trail see listing under Minnesota
KANSAS
Kansas Birding Trails
https://www.ksbirdingtrail.com/
The Kansas Birding Trail is designed to link you to the best birding spots for opportunities to see some of the 350 plus bird species that regularly occur in the state. Each trail is made up of convenient, thematic, and flexible routes.
KENTUCKY
Southern Ohio Birding and Heritage Trail
(Kentucky portions also in formation) see listing under Ohio
LOUISIANA
Louisiana Birding
https://www.birdinglouisiana.com/
With diverse landscapes and abundant wetlands, Louisiana is a haven for birdwatchers of all levels. From the majestic Bald Eagle soaring over the cypress swamps to the vibrant Painted Bunting flitting through blooming gardens, our state boasts an incredible array of feathered residents.
MAINE
Maine Birding Trail
www.mainebirdingtrail.com
The Maine Birding Trail describes the best birding sites statewide. To date, six regions have been documented, including Acadia National Park and some of the best coastal and wilderness habitats in the state. Special attention is paid to highly prized species such as Atlantic Puffin and Spruce Grouse. Trail guides are available to download for free at www.mainebirdingtrail.com. The web site also makes it easy for birders to seek out a variety of accommodations, and take advantage of Maine adventures such as windjammer sailing tours, sea kayaking, whale-watching, puffin trips, and moose safaris.
Contact: Bob Duchesne, 478 Beechwood Ave., Old Town, ME 04468; 207-827-3782; e-mail at: duchesne@midmaine.com.
MARYLAND
Birder’s Guide to Maryland & DC
The online Birder’s Guide to Maryland & DC was developed by the Maryland Ornithological Society (MOS). Maryland is a state of great natural beauty and diverse habitats, offering some of the best birding on the East Coast, with more than 463 bird species recorded in Maryland and 347 in Washington, D.C. Active birders throughout the state have contributed site descriptions to create this guide to the best birding sites. More than 254 sites are included, with more to be added. Every county and major ecoregion in Maryland is covered. Each site description includes an interactive Google map of the location, trail map, links to eBird hotspots, and a link to a Google photo gallery. A written overview covers habitat, trails, and tips, summary of expected species, wheelchair access, pet policies, hours and fees, and more. The Guide’s theme of bird conservation is reflected in notes on conservation issues and protected status. There are also links to upcoming field trips sponsored by MOS - most are open to the public. Additional resources include lists of top-ranked eBird hotspots, printable checklists for Maryland and DC, and an extensive list of further reading recommendations.
For additional information: birdersguidemddc.org
MICHIGAN
Beaver Island Birding Trail
As the largest island in Lake Michigan, Beaver Island is a critical stopover site for migratory birds flying up the lake on their way north to breeding grounds. Many birds stay to nest. The BIBT encompasses more than 12,000 acres of state and township lands and four Little Traverse Conservancy where examples of each of the islands’s diverse habitats can be found.
For additional information: www.beaverislandbirdingtrail.org
Newaygo County Birding Trail
The Newaygo County Birding Trail has been designed to guide you to a diverse collection of locations throughout the county. The “trail” is a loosely ordered driving route to over 30 locations that run the gamut from county parks to rural back roads.
https://newaygocountyexploring.com/birding-trail/
MINNESOTA
Pine to Prairie Birding Trail
www.mnbirdtrail.com/
Minnesota's first birding trail consists of 45 sites spanning more than 200 miles from pine to prairie in the northwestern part of the state-through pine forests, deciduous woodlands, tall grass prairie, aspen parklands, calcareous fens, bogs, and marshes. Greater Prairie Chicken and Three-toed Woodpecker are just a few of over 275 species that can be seen along the way.
The Great River Birding Trail
https://gis.audubon.org/Minnesota/birdtrails/
The Great River Birding Trail highlights the best birdwatching sites along the Mississippi River. The spine of the trail follows the federally designated scenic drive called the Great River Road, which runs from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. In general, the sites include established wildlife refuges, parks, overlooks, and other attractions no more than 25 to 30 miles from the Great River Road. Over a dozen maps have been produced to illustrate the sites along both sides of the 1,366-mile Upper Mississippi River in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri. Sites are now being selected in the five Lower Mississippi River valley states to connect the trail to the Gulf of Mexico.
MISSOURI
Great River Birding Trail see listing under Minnesota
Missouri Birding Trail
https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/activities/birdwatching/missouri-birding-trail
Missouri hosts around 350 bird species along its streams and two major rivers and in many different habitat types across the state including prairie, woodland, forest, and wetlands. These diverse habitats and abundant public lands make our state a great place for you to bird. The Missouri Birding Trail helps new and experienced birders find the best birding locations in the state with an interactive map and educational content to learn more about birding, habitats for birds, and how you can help conserve our feathered friends.
MONTANA
Southwest Montana Gold West Country Birding Trails
https://southwestmt.com/specialfeatures/birdingtrails/
Come explore the wide variety of birds along Southwest Montana Gold West Country Birding Trails. Experience birding the continental divide where waters flow east to the Missouri River as well as west to the Columbia. Bird where Lewis & Clark and the Corps of Discovery viewed the splendor of Southwest Montana’s mountains and rivers.
Central Montana Birding Trails
https://centralmontana.com/pdfs/Central-Montana-Birding-Trails.pdf
NEBRASKA
Nebraska Birding Guide (Trails)
https://birdtrail.outdoornebraska.gov/
Nebraska Birding Guide is the ultimate online resource to the nearly endless birding opportunities across the diverse state of Nebraska. From the spring and fall stream of massive flocks of waterfowl, cranes and shorebirds within the heart of the central flyway, to the multiple contact zones where eastern and western bird species meet, Nebraska is the perfect birding destination with over 400 species to observe. The new and improved website highlights over 75 public-access locations that offer great birding opportunities. The website features information about notable birds in Nebraska like the Long-billed Curlew, Greater Prairie-Chicken, and Sandhill Crane and some of the best places to view them. Also featured are the best places to bird in each unique ecological region across the state from the tallgrass prairie in the east, the expansive Sandhills in north-central Nebraska, to the Pine Ridge and shortgrass prairie of the western panhandle. The website also has information about peak birding opportunities like the Sandhill Crane migration, bird cams, and resources for birders and nature enthusiasts interested in participating in this growing hobby. Enjoy the discovery of vast birding opportunities across the state by visiting the website.
Contact: To learn more about the Nebraska Birding Guide (Trail) visit the website (https://birdtrail.outdoornebraska.gov/). For brochures or questions email: Olivia DaRugna, Watchable Wildlife Biologist, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission email: olivia.darugna@nebraska.gov
NEW HAMPSHIRE
The Connecticut River Birding Trail see listing under Vermont
NEW JERSEY
New Jersey Birding and WildlifeTrails
www.njwildlifetrails.org
The New Jersey Birding and Wildlife Trails website presents the Delaware Bayshore Trails; 9 driving routes visiting 82 wildlife viewing sites in the State's three southernmost counties. Drive along Bayshore, famous for it horseshoe crab spawning and migration of Red Knot; visit Cape Island for a spring or fall migration extravaganza; or try the Barrier Island Trail, which links wildlife viewing sites all along the famous Jersey Shore. In the northeastern section of the state, our Meadowlands and More Trail guide contains 3 driving trails visiting 23 wildlife viewing sites throughout the Hackensack River Watershed. Visit the Meadowlands' rich estuary, where you can watch peregrine falcons hunt while viewing the New York City Skyline; launch a canoe or kayak into the marshes to view wildlife up close or visit one of the hottest fall raptor-watching sites in the state. We've got it all and it is waiting for you to come and experience.
To order a Meadowlands and More, Birding and Wildlife Trails Guide call 1-888-NJM-BIRDS or contact Lillian Armstrong, Director of Birding and Wildlife Trails, New Jersey Audubon Society at 609-861-0700 and make sure to visit our website at http://www.njwildlifetrails.org.
NEW YORK
The Lake Champlain Birding Trail see listing under Vermont
NORTH CAROLINA
The North Carolina Birding Trail
www.ncbirdingtrail.org
The North Carolina Birding Trail is a driving trail, linking great bird watching sites across the state with communities, businesses and other local historical and educational attractions. The Trail is being completed in three distinct components: the coastal plain, the piedmont, and the mountains. Guide books for each region are also being produced as each section is implemented. As of Spring 2007, the coastal plain region has been completed, with 102 sites identified across this region of the Trail. The coastal plain trail guide will be available by Summer 2007. Visit our website for ordering information and for on-line site descriptions, available for download. The piedmont region will be completed by Summer 2008, and the mountain region by Summer 2009.
Contacts: To learn more about the Trail, visit the website (www.ncbirdingtrail.org), email info@ncbirdingtrail.org, or call 919-604-5183.
NORTH DAKOTA
Birding Drives Dakota
www.birdingdrives.com
As a state with 62 National Wildlife Refuges (more than any other state!) North Dakota has a lot to offer-it's one of those very special places left in the world. Our group, Birding Drives Dakota, is a unique coalition of communities working in concert with four of those refuges, and a host of other federal, state and local agencies, to promote birding and conservation. We have developed a network of birding trails or, as we are calling them here, birding drives, that encourage anyone interested in watching wildlife to go out and appreciate the richness of the Prairie Potholes. With North Dakota boasting more than 300 species of birds, specialty birds for our area include (but are not limited to!) the Baird's Sparrow, Chestnut-collared Longspur, Nelson's Sharp-tailed Sparrow, Sprague's Pipit, and Sharp-tailed Grouse.
OHIO
Appalachian Discovery: Birding and Heritage Trail
https://www.ohiotraveler.com/appalachian-discovery-birding-trail/
Created by The Nature Conservancy, the local community and regional businesses, this trail is meant to showcase the natural and historical treasure of Southern Ohio. It is a 200-mile loop that stops at a wide variety of birding hotspots and significant historical sites like the Serpent Mound. This trail is best in the spring for migrating warblers as well as the summer for southern specialties in Ohio. But good birding can be had all year long. Interior to the trail is a 20 square barn quilt trail for those interested in Appalachian folk arts. Both these trails can be viewed at the web site, including birds you might expect to see, their life history's, their songs, close up 360 degree pictures and maps of the sites.
OKLAHOMA
The Great Plains Trail of Oklahoma
www.owpha.org
Thirteen scenic driving loops highlight native wildlife, prairies, culture and terrain. Loops take the visitor through areas that provide the greatest likelihood to see wildlife (boasting 220 bird species), while offering routes that traverse the most scenic and remote roads in the state. For the birdwatcher, each loop has a recommended birding route detailing where to start at dawn and where to end at sunset with bathroom and eating breaks included. Each loop can be printed off the website or to receive the Trail road map go to www.travelok.com or call 1-800-652-6552.
Contact: Melynda Hickman, Wildlife Diversity Biologist, OK Dept. of Wildlife Conservation, 405-424-0099 or mhickman@zoo.odwc.state.ok.us.
OREGON
Coast Birding Trail
www.oregoncoastbirding.com
Around every curve, the stunningly beautiful Oregon coast landscape will compete for your attention as you search for the more than 450 birds that have been recorded in its habitats. On the outermost part of the trail where land meets the sea, explore sandy beaches, coastal dunes, tidal estuaries, and rocky tidepools. From the mainland, view birds nesting on coastal islands. Join a boat tour to go farther west for pelagic birds on the open Pacific. So grab your binoculars, a favorite field guide, and the Oregon Coast Birding Trail guide, and make us your next birding destination.
Klamath Basin Birding Trail
www.klamathbirdingtrails.com
Welcome to one of the top birding hotspots in the Nation, where thousands of migratory birds arrive each spring and fall, swirling above majestic mountaintops in a captivating spectacle. Over 350 bird species inhabit the Klamath Basin—a mosaic of mountains, desert, grasslands, marshes, and lakes. The wide variety of habitat provides viewing opportunities of birds plus elk, deer, and antelope.
Situated on the Oregon/California state line, the Klamath Basin Birding Trail (KBBT) is approximately 300 miles long and highlights 47 birding sites within three major regions: the Cascade Mountains, Great Basin, and Northern California. Included are old growth, juniper and coniferous forests, sagebrush, grasslands, extensive wetlands, and the Pacific Northwest's largest natural lake.
This area contains critical migratory stopover, nesting, and refueling sites for about 80% of the Pacific Flyway waterfowl funneling through the Basin. The largest concentration of wintering Bald Eagles in the lower 48 states make the Klamath Basin their home.
The KBBT features unique geological formations, culture, and history of the area. The birding trail loops through six National Wildlife Refuges, four National Forests, three State Wildlife Areas, and Klamath Falls City Parks. Outstanding features include world-famous Crater Lake National Park, Lava Beds National Monument, and the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway All American Road. Bring your binoculars, birding guides, and enjoy the sights!
Contact: Cindy Deas, Coordinator, Klamath Basin Birding Trail cindyd@fireserve.net or Great Basin Visitor Association, 1-800-445-6728 or 541-884-0666, 507 Main St., Klamath Falls, Oregon 97601 or KBBT Sponsoring Non-Profit, Klamath Wingwatchers, Inc., PO Box 251, Klamath Falls, Oregon 97601
Oregon Cascades Birding Trail
www.oregonbirdingtrails.org/cascades.htm
The first of several birding trails throughout the state, designed to showcase the region's birds and spectacular scenery for local residents and visitors from around the globe. This website provides comprehensive resources on the trail, including the complete trail guide, with detailed maps and information on how the trail can be accessed and the birds you are likely to see while visiting it.
Contact: Audubon Society of Portland, (503) 292-6855, or Stephen
Shunk at (541) 549-8826.
PENNSYLVANIA
Susquehanna River Birding and Wildlife Trail Guide
https://susquehannariverlands.com/the-great-outdoors/on-the-water/birding-fishing/susquehanna-river-birding-wildlife-trail/
The online Pennsylvania Birding and Wildlife Guide is a compilation of three separate birding and wildlife guide books: the Western Pennsylvania Birding Trail Guide, the Susquehanna River Birding and Wildlife Trail, and the Eastern Pennsylvania Birding and Wildlife Guide. The website includes an interactive guide and map that features a map of Pennsylvania highlighting birding locations, and a searchable database.
TEXAS
www.tpwd.state.tx.us/birdingtrails
Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail
Upper Texas Coast
Central Texas Coast
Lower Texas Coast
Often called the father of the birding trail movement, the Texas coastal trail was the first-and at approximately 2,110 miles-still the longest birding trail. It links 310 sites and 41 counties along Texas's Gulf Coast, providing a colorful road map to well over half of the 600 species found in the state (3 maps available).
Heart of Texas Wildlife Trail
https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wildlife/wildlife-trails/hotw
The Heart of Texas Wildlife Trail, linking 238 sites, is scheduled for completion by summer 2003 (3 maps available).
Panhandle Wildlife Trail
https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wildlife/wildlife-trails/php
The Panhandle Plains Wildlife Trails (High Plains Wildlife Trail), linking 97 sites, is scheduled for completion by spring/summer 2003 (2 maps available).
Prairies and Pineywoods Wildlife Trail
https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wildlife/wildlife-trails/ppww
Nominations are being assessed now for the recently-funded Prairies and Pineywoods Wildlife Trail with completion scheduled for 2004.
Contact (for all Texas trails): Texas Parks and Wildlife Dept. Wildlife Diversity Program, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin TX 78744; (888) 892-4737
VERMONT
The Lake Champlain Birding Trail
https://atlas.lcbp.org/heritage-recreation/recreation-sites/lake-champlain-birding-trail/
This trail is a highway-based trail (approximately 300 miles) that unifies and connects 87 birding sites along the Lake Champlain shoreline and uplands in Vermont and New York into a cohesive and marketable unit. A high quality, full color map and guide identifies birding sites throughout the Lake Champlain Basin and provides information about the sites and tips for better birding. Uniform way-finding signs are installed to identify each site as part of the birding trail. Interpretive signs will also be placed at sites to help reveal to visitors various natural and cultural history themes and messages. Other enhancements being constructed at some sites include boardwalks, viewing blinds, and platforms.
VIRGINIA
Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail
www.dgif.virginia.gov/vbwt/
The Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail (VBWT) was the first statewide wildlife viewing trail ever developed. It contains over 635 viewing sites organized into 65 driving loops and offers an incredible diversity of habitats to explore, from the marshes and water trails of Virginia’s Coastal Plain, to the open rolling hills of the Piedmont, to the high elevation forests of the Appalachian Mountains. Each driving loop is designed to take 2-3 days to complete. Visit the VBWT website at www.dgif.virginia.gov/vbwt/ to find loop maps, site descriptions, driving directions, and tourism contacts in each local community for lodging, food and other services. For interactive maps of the VBWT and to search for birds and wildlife of particular interest, please visit Find Wildlife VA at http://vafwis.dgif.virginia.gov/findwildlifeva/#/findWildlife.
WISCONSIN
Oak Leaf Birding Trail
https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/Parks/Explore/Trails/Oak-Leaf-Trail
Great Wisconsin Birding Trail
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/EndangeredResources/birdtrail
The first birding trail in Wisconsin is the Oak Leaf Birding Trail, which includes more than 35 stops in the Milwaukee County Parks system, covering territory from the Lake Michigan shore, to the botanical gardens, to local nature preserves. Bird species range from Bonaparte's Gull, to American Woodcock, to Dickcissel. The trail is a particularly fine introduction to birding for urban residents. A much larger proposal, the Great Wisconsin Birding Trail is in the works, however, one which would include four loops: the current Oak Leaf, and Great River, Horicon, and Ozaukee Interurban.
Great River Birding Trail see listing under Minnesota
WASHINGTON
Great Washington Birding Trail (the Cascade Loop, Coulee Corridor Scenic Byway, Southwest Loop, Olympic Loop)
https://wa.audubon.org/birds/great-washington-state-birding-trail
Washington State has completed six birding trails (Cascade Loop, Coulee Corridor, Olympic Loop, Palouse to Pines Loop, Southwest Loop, Sun & Sage Loop) and the Puget Loop is now under construction
CANADA
SASKATCHEWAN
The Saskatchewan Bird Trail
https://www.naturesask.ca/resources/sask-birding-trails
Saskatchewan has a wealth of bird watching opportunities ranging from the fall migration of waterfowl to the spring rush of songbirds and shorebirds. We hope that this guide, Saskatchewan Birding Trail Experience will help you find and enjoy the many birding locations in our province.




