Ride Along the Sunrise Coast Birding Trail

Michigan is famous for its diverse wetland environment. Its low-elevation flats and massive forests surrounded by the ancient Great Lakes create a paradise for all types of animals, especially birds and birdwatchers from around the United States come to this region of Michigan to catch sight of some of Earth’s most beautiful creatures.

If you’re not a birder, staying at the Huron House Bed & Breakfast is a great time and place to start. Find a guide, smartphone app, and blank journal to record your findings; Michigan has some of the world’s rarest birds. What makes birding so much fun is that it happens so fast; you won’t usually find a bird in one spot for too long, and many of these birds are endangered. Keep a keen eye for the Great Lakes Piping Plover, Kirtland’s Warbler, and majestic raptors as these are all birds on the endangered species list.

Starting from the mouth of the famous AuSable River in Oscoda, you’ll be traveling along some of the country’s most critical natural habitats for native species. The Sunrise Coast Birding Trail runs a remarkable length to the Mackinac Bridge. Don’t make the whole trip, though, or we won’t see you back at the inn for quite a while. Piety Hill Riverwalk and Riverbank Park are great places to start, and Harrisville State Park may be your opportunity to start your return trip on US 23 South, hugging the shores of Lake Huron. Make a pit stop at the Modern Craft Winery Tasting Room in Harrisville first, though. You can let your birding sightseeing sink in over a glass of homemade fruit wine.

Visit the website for information on the Sunrise Coast Birding Trail and view a map to plan your trip.