Birdwatching Trek: Bloomington Ferry

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Join refuge naturalist Craig Mandel for a bird walk to learn about the birds that we find on the refuge. Learn about the different types of habitats at the refuge that support over 100 species of birds, many of which migrate through and nest on the refuge during certain times of the year. No experience needed, this program is intended for those interested in birding regardless of experience level. Registration required.

Questions? Contact MinnesotaValley@fws.gov or call (952) 854-5900.

Date and Time: Saturday, August 29, 2026 from 8-10:30am

Location: Meet us at the trailhead at the Bloomington Ferry Trailhead

11255 Bloomington Ferry Rd, Bloomington, MN 55438

Registration Information: Registration required. Capped at 25 participants, register for this event is available at the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuges website. On their website, go to the events page and locate the event you would like to register for and click on the sign up link to register.

Please indicate in your registration if you would like to receive a birding summary and species list from the walk.

Activity Level: This program is entirely outdoors. Distance covered is 1-2 miles total. The walk is easy active, slow moving, with plenty of stops along the way.

What to Bring: Comfortable clothing is recommended, including boots for wet/rainy conditions on muddy trails. If you have them, bring along your own pair of binoculars and field guides. Volunteers have spotting scopes available for all to use as well.

Accessibility: Accessibility at Bloomington Ferry:

There are no restrooms or water fountains at this location. There are no dedicated handicap parking spots. Bloomington Ferry and River Bottoms trails are natural surface, mostly flat, with entries to trails moderately sloped. Minnesota Valley State Trail is handicap accessible, paved and mostly flat, with access via a pedestrian bridge. Depending on seasonal trail conditions, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter) and may not always be suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. There are no benches in the area. Kiosk is a <0.1 mile distance from the parking lot. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to providing access to these events for all participants. Please direct all requests for sign language interpreting services, close captioning, or other accommodation needs at least ten business days before the event to Oscar Hernandez at oscar_hernandez@fws.gov Event date and time Aug 29, 2026 8:00 am - Aug 29, 2026 10:30 am (CDT) Register Here Event location name Bloomington Ferry Trailhead Address 11255 Bloomington Ferry Rd Bloomington, 55438 MN