The Boulder Junction area is a spectacular birdwatching destination. Pristine wilderness and a diversity of habitat make the region one of the best places to see a number of rare and endangered birds.

Access to excellent birding locations is easy because of the abundance of wild lands available to the public: hundreds of thousands of state, federal and county lands surround Boulder Junction. Over a dozen State Natural Areas preserve fragile ecosystems.

Many excellent birding areas can be reached by car. But hikers and paddlers will find a nearly endless array of birdwatching spots deep in the wilderness.

Below are a few of the area’s best birding locations:

Northern Highland–American Legion State Forest

Over 220,000 acres of lakes and woodlands make up this magnificent forest. Because of the abundance of large trees and large lakes, this is one of the best opportunities anywhere for seeing bald eagles in their nesting habitat. In addition, birders have a good chance of seeing the Alder Flycatcher, Vesper Sparrow and Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. Rare sightings include the Gray Jay, Nelson’s Sharptailed Sparrow and LeConte’s Sparrow.

Lumberjack/Escanaba Trails (pdf)

This excellent trails system provides a dozen miles of birding opportunity. Bald Eagle, Ruffed Grouse and Woodcock sightings are fairly common. A wide variety of lowland and upland settings makes this a great place for a walk as well as seeing a variety of wildlife. Access the trail off of Old K Road or Concora Road.

Fallison Lake Trail (pdf)

Located south of Boulder Junction off of Highway N, this gem of a trail makes its way around beautiful Fallison Lake and takes you through a variety of tree species. Look for eagles, loons and even the occasional osprey. This trail is one of the most beautiful in the Northwoods.

Catherine Wolter Wilderness Area (pdf)

A true birding paradise, this 2,189-acre State Natural Area encompasses many small lakes scattered as well as uplands, giving you a chance to see a wide variety of species. Look for loons, osprey and a variety of warblers. From Boulder Junction, head north for 5 miles on Highway M, then northwest on Highway B for 7 miles. Turn on East Bay Road until you reach the parking area.

North Lakeland Discovery Center (pdf)

In addition to excellent birding opportunities, the 66-acre Discovery Center has 20 miles of hiking trails and a year-round environmental education program. Located west of Boulder Junction in nearby Manitowish Waters.
North Lakeland Discovery Center Bird Club

Powell Marsh State Wildlife Area (pdf)

One of the great wetlands of northern Wisconsin, the Powell Marsh provides birders with a chance to see Yellow Rail, LeConte’s Sparrow, Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrow, Short-eared Owl, Northern Harrier, American Bittern and Merlin. Located west of Boulder Junction in nearby Manitowish Waters.

Great Wisconsin Birding & Nature Trail - Lake Superior Region Viewing Guide (Adobe PDF)

Check List of Wisconsin Birds (Adobe PDF)