Enjoy excellent spring birding in a truly spectacular location on the iconic Gunflint Trail. In this course, part of the Up the Trail series, students will take advantage of the spring migration and enjoy being in the field on the edge of the Boundary Waters. Based out of Gunflint Lodge, students will spend two morning sessions up early and immersed in the boreal forest right outside the door. On Day 2, students will take a short afternoon field trip to the Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center, which has been home to nesting loons easily viewed from a safe distance in years past. Some specific species we will be hoping to find include: Black-backed Woodpecker, winter wren, Gray Jay, and 15 species of warbler including Northern Parula, Northern Waterthrush, Canada Warbler, and Mourning Warbler. A variety of lodging options are available to students at special rates, allowing students to enjoy the beauty and northwoods hospitality of one of Minnesota’s premier wilderness resorts and immerse in spring birding while exploring the Gunflint wilderness. Note, this course will meet at Gunflint Lodge for a short introductory session on Day 1, 7-8pm.

You will need the following tools for this class:

Wear comfortable shoes that can get muddy
clothing layers for any weather
hat with a brim
skinny gloves are often nice to have along for cooler days
rain gear if needed
binoculars
water
snacks
insect repellent
lunch is available for purchase at Gunflint Lodge, or you may bring your own

Feel free to bring your favorite tools and whatever materials you might feel appropriate for this course.