2026 Migratory Birding Hike - Sugar Creek Bluff

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In honor of World Migratory Bird Day, Mississippi Valley Conservancy invites the public to a free, guided migratory birding hike at Sugar Creek Bluff State Natural Area on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 7 am. This springtime walk through the blufflands offers a chance to slow down, listen, and observe as migratory birds return to the Driftless Area. In addition to being blown away by the intensity of the birdsong at Sugar Creek Bluff, participants will enjoy learning about the incredible journeys—and conservation needs—of these traveling birds.

(Photo: A group of bird lovers searches for an ovenbird during the 2025 Migratory Birding Hike at Sugar Creek Bluff. Photo by Sarah Bratnober)

This year’s hike will be led by an experienced team of birders and naturalists, including Krysten Zummo, Gwyn Calvetti, Dr. Stefan Gleissberg, and Connor Kotte, along with Conservancy staff and volunteers. Guides will share insights on bird identification, habitat, and migration while helping participants spot and hear species along the trail. Bring your cameras and binoculars or just enjoy the experience without the extras. Conservancy staff will have extra binoculars available for your use, as well. 

We’re also pleased to be joined by our friends from Ferryville Tourism, who will have ideas for exploring the area after the hike. Participants will break into small groups, ensuring an engaging and welcoming experience for birders of all skill levels.

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Advance registration is required for this free event and must be completed by May 6. There are a limited number of spots for this tour in order for participants to have the best possible experience. Questions? Contact Karen Solverson at [email protected] or call 608-784-3606 ext. 8.

This free hike is part of Mississippi Valley Conservancy’s 2026 “Linked to the Land” series, which connects people to the nature preserves protected for wildlife habitat, scenic beauty, outdoor learning, and recreation throughout the Driftless Area. The program is made possible through generous community support and sponsorship from WXOW News 19.

Sugar Creek Bluff State Natural Area is a 440-acre bluffland preserve near Ferryville, Wisconsin, rising from the banks of Sugar Creek near the Mississippi River. Its mix of forest, prairie, and meadow provides critical habitat for rare and sensitive bird species. Past hikes have recorded sightings of red-shouldered hawks, ovenbirds, grasshopper sparrows, cerulean warblers, and blue-winged warblers.