If you’re an avid birdwatcher, Horicon Marsh in Wisconsin may already be one of those places on your list of the best birdwatching spots in the Midwest. It’s certainly one of the best spots to visit in Wisconsin, especially during the spring and fall migratory seasons. Horicon Marsh is known as the largest freshwater cattail marsh in the United States, and this stunning natural area is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The Horicon National Wildlife Refuge, a key part of Horicon Marsh, draws visitors year-round for its incredible bird migrations and pristine wetlands.
Spring is the perfect time to visit as the marsh comes alive with blooming wildflowers and the excitement of seasonal bird migrations. Located just an hour from Madison and Milwaukee, Horicon Marsh offers unmatched birdwatching and access to nearby attractions like Devil’s Lake State Park, scenic Wisconsin bike trails, and the picturesque Wisconsin River. Whether you’re an avid birder, a nature lover, or someone looking for a peaceful retreat, this region has something for everyone. The annual spring migration is just around the corner, which means now’s the perfect time to plan your birdwatching adventure.
Wisconsin offers plenty of other opportunities to explore beyond Horicon Marsh – not to mention the various other exceptional birdwatching spots you’ll find across the Midwest. From the lush woodlands of the Kettle Moraine State Forest to the scenic forests of northern Minnesota, the region is a haven for birdwatchers. In Wisconsin, take the time to explore The Great Wisconsin Birding and Nature Trail, which features hotspots across the state. You can spot everything from sandhill cranes and bald eagles to rare warblers during migration seasons. With so many diverse habitats, Wisconsin is a premier destination for birders of all skill levels.
To complete your getaway, treat yourself to a stay at one of the finest Bed and Breakfasts in Wisconsin. Those who are members of the Midwest Association of Independent Inns are licensed, inspected, and dedicated to a high-quality lodging experience like no other. Whether you prefer the charm of a rural inn or the convenience of lodging near urban centers, Wisconsin’s Bed and Breakfasts offer the perfect blend of comfort, hospitality, and a chance to connect with the local area. Make your spring adventure unforgettable by booking your stay near Horicon Marsh today!
Explore Horicon Marsh in Wisconsin
Whether you’re a dedicated bird enthusiast or a casual observer of nature, Birdwatching is a rewarding springtime activity. That’s especially true when you visit a place as special as Horicon Marsh in Wisconsin. Birdwatching gives you a rare opportunity to connect with nature wherever you are. While your own backyard or a charming inn’s garden can be a great starting point, nothing compares to the immersive experience of visiting Horicon National Wildlife Refuge. As part of the expansive Horicon Marsh, this refuge is one of the most extraordinary birdwatching spots in the Midwest.
Spanning the northern two-thirds of Horicon Marsh and covering 22,000 acres, the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge is a vibrant hub for bird migrations each spring and fall. Over 300 species of birds have been recorded here, making it a premier destination for birding enthusiasts. From graceful great blue herons and white pelicans to striking warblers and rare species like the black tern, the diversity is truly remarkable. In addition to waterfowl, the surrounding woodlands and prairie habitats attract a variety of songbirds, shorebirds, and raptors, providing birdwatchers with endless opportunities to spot something new.
Spring at Horicon Marsh is especially magical, as the migration season brings waves of birds stopping to rest and refuel. The best time to see the greatest variety of birds is from mid-April to mid-May. Canadian Geese and ducks are often among the first to arrive, followed by an array of smaller songbirds. These migratory patterns showcase the marsh’s vital role in supporting global bird populations. Birds aren’t the only species you’ll enjoy during your time at Horicon Marsh, though. The marsh is home to an array of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, muskrats, and river otters. It’s a dynamic environment that is a testament to Wisconsin’s commitment to conservation and land stewardship.
Of course, there are plenty of other things to do at Horicon Marsh this spring besides looking upwards through a pair of binoculars. The Marsh is home to five miles of hiking trails, including the popular Horicon Habitat Trail and a 1,400-foot accessible boardwalk that brings you closer to the marsh’s unique ecosystem. These trails offer a great way to connect with nature and stretch your legs. If you’re looking for a faster-paced adventure on two wheels, The Wild Goose State Trail passes along the western edge of the marsh and offers breathtaking views of the area. For a more immersive experience, paddle through the Horicon Marsh Canoe Trail, where you’ll encounter wetlands teeming with life. Guided boat tours from May to October provide an expert-led journey into the marsh’s natural wonders, with options like birding-focused excursions, sunset cruises, and seasonal tours.
More Great Places for Birdwatching in Wisconsin
Though the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge offers some of the best birdwatching in Wisconsin, it’s certainly not the only place to see the region’s winged visitors. If you want to enjoy a trip centered around birdwatching in Wisconsin, you’ll discover plenty of great places worth visiting on the Great Wisconsin Birding and Nature Trail. The National Audubon Society, which lists 88 incredible birding destinations around the state, is also a great resource.
Wisconsin’s natural diversity makes it one of the best states for birdwatching in spring. Whether you’re exploring wetlands like Horicon Marsh or the forests of Kettle Moraine, there’s no shortage of incredible sights for birding enthusiasts. Make time to experience these top destinations and enjoy the vibrant display of Wisconsin’s birdlife this season.
- Both the Southern Unit and the Northern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest offer plenty of diverse habitats perfect for birdwatching. You’ll find migrating warblers, flycatchers, and raptors in these sprawling forests. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail, which runs through the forest, offers excellent hiking and birding opportunities.
- Necedah National Wildlife Refuge is in central Wisconsin. It is a sanctuary for endangered species like the whooping crane. Spring brings vibrant displays of ducks, geese, and songbirds. The refuge’s diverse habitats make it a birding hotspot year-round.
- If you want to do a little kayaking alongside your birdwatching adventure, head to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Spring birdwatching at the Apostle Islands includes sightings of migrating waterfowl, shorebirds, and bald eagles. The islands’ rugged cliffs and surrounding waters create an ideal habitat for various species, including the rare peregrine falcon.
- Crex Meadows Wildlife Area, in northwestern Wisconsin, offers sprawling wetlands and prairies where you can spot trumpeter swans, sandhill cranes, and yellow-headed blackbirds. Its open vistas are perfect for observing large flocks during migration.
- Lower Wisconsin State Riverway is another fantastic adventure destination for birders and canoers alike. This scenic riverway stretches through southern Wisconsin and is an excellent location for spring birdwatching. Look for herons, egrets, and kingfishers along the riverbanks, and keep an eye on the sky for soaring eagles.
- Green Bay West Shore Wildlife Area is a coastal wetland along Lake Michigan. During spring migration, it is ideal for waterfowl and shorebird sightings. The protected area provides a critical stopover habitat for birds heading north to breeding grounds.
- Buena Vista Grasslands, located in central Wisconsin, is known for its open prairies and grasslands. These attract rare species like the greater prairie chicken and, in spring, host migrating sparrows, hawks, and meadowlarks.
- The entire Door County Peninsula, with its mix of forests, wetlands, and shoreline, offers incredible birding opportunities. Check out Toft Point State Natural Area or the Ridges Sanctuary to spot warblers, thrushes, and waterfowl.
- Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary is a stunning urban wildlife refuge in Green Bay and a surprising gem for birdwatching in Wisconsin. During the spring migration, its ponds, woodlands, and marshes attract everything from wood ducks and sandpipers to colorful orioles and bluebirds.
- Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge, located along the Great River Road in western Wisconsin, is an absolute gem for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Like Horicon Marsh, this 6,200-acre refuge is a mosaic of wetlands, prairies, and hardwood forests, offering critical habitat for migratory birds. In the spring, it comes alive with waterfowl, shorebirds, and raptors, including eagles and hawks. The refuge’s location within the Mississippi Flyway makes it a vital stopover for species like sandhill cranes and warblers.
Unwind at the Best Bed and Breakfasts in Wisconsin
If you’re ready to make your travels unforgettable this year, Wisconsin and its stunning parks and natural areas, like Horicon Marsh, should be at the top of your list. From breathtaking natural beauty to vibrant cultural experiences, there’s an unbeatable array of things to do in Wisconsin. When it comes to accommodations, Bed and Breakfasts in Wisconsin set the standard for comfort, charm, and unmatched hospitality.
Whether planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, you’ll discover an impressive variety of lodging options in Wisconsin. From boutique inns and historic estates to cozy cabins and eco-friendly stays, there’s something for everyone. Our Bed and Breakfasts go beyond just providing a place to stay, though. They create experiences that celebrate the best of Wisconsin. Whether you’re staying in a lakefront retreat, a quaint farmstead, or a vibrant urban escape, you’ll find thoughtful touches and attention to detail that make every visit memorable.
No matter the season, Wisconsin is bursting with opportunities to explore and enjoy. From scenic outdoor adventures and bustling farmers’ markets in the summer to cozy winter getaways, there’s always something happening here. Pair your adventures with a stay at one of our exceptional Bed and Breakfasts in Wisconsin, and you’ll see why this state is a favorite destination in the Midwest. Start planning your getaway today!
