Bird Watching

Located right in the heart of the bustling Mississippi River Valley, Red Wing is a premier natural haven for birds and birdwatchers alike. Thanks to our dramatic river geography, an incredible variety of species nest here year-round or pass through during their epic spring and fall migrations.

Over 250 species of birds have been identified tracking through the striking limestone bluffs, deep valleys, and rich backwaters of the Red Wing area. From the spectacular seasonal rush of tundra swans and waterfowl on the river to the bright warblers flitting through the trees, there is always something to spot.

Prime Vantage Points

You can catch incredible views of our feathered friends from the highest bluff tops down to the peaceful river bottoms:

• He Mni Can / Barn Bluff: Red Wing’s most iconic landmark offers a literal bird’s-eye view. As you hike the trails, look up to see soaring bald eagles, peregrine falcons catching the thermals, and turkey vultures gliding level with the cliff edge. The forested slopes are also a magnet for migrating songbirds in the spring.

• Colvill Park: Perfect for shoreline scanning. In the winter, the open water attracts bald eagles, while summer brings blue herons, egrets, and a variety of gulls and terns.

• Bay Point Park: Various park benches and swings welcome comfortable places to sit along the river. Enjoy a picnic lunch while you wait patiently wait for the fly-by of various birds. The open water near the dam attracts bald eagles in the winter months.

• Frontenac State Park (Just Downriver): Widely considered one of the best birding spots in the entire state, especially for catching the massive warbler migration in May.

MN State Park Birding Checklist

In addition to bird watching in Red Wing, you may find a wide array of wildlife.

Often spotted along the Cannon River and in the Mississippi back channel are turtles, deer, wild turkey, raccoons, rabbits, beaver and more.

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