Birdwatching Trek: Rapids Lake

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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: Sunday, August 23, 2026 from 8-10:30am

Location: Meet us at the trailhead at the Rapids Lake Visitor Center.

15865 Rapids Lake Rd, Carver, MN 55315

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 the Rapids Lake Visitor Center:

Restrooms and a water bottle filler are available inside the visitor center. There is an outdoor restroom, but no outdoor water fountains. There is dedicated handicap parking available. The Rapids Lake Trail and Forest Loop are flat natural surface paths and the trail leading to both is paved with a slight downward slope. Depending on seasonal trail conditions, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter). Paths may not always be suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. It is a 0.1-0.2 mile walk to get to the trailhead from the parking lot. There are no rest areas along the trails, but are present inside and outside the visitor center.

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 23, 2026 8:00 am – Aug 23, 2026 10:30 am (CDT)
Register Here
Event location name
Rapids Lake Visitor Center
Address
15865 Rapids Lake Rd
Carver,
55315
MN