Explore Local Birds

An Exceptional Place for Birding

Northern Idaho's beautiful landscapes offer ample opportunities to observe birds in their natural habitats. Within a short drive, you can spot birds in wetlands, lakes, rivers, forests, mountains, and meadows, as well as enjoy biking and hiking along scenic trails. Whether you're a veteran or novice birder, the stunning beauty of this area makes this a special place to be a birder.

Check out some of our favorite birding spots….

Kootenai County

  • Kootenai County is home to a rich diversity of habitats that support excellent birdwatching year-round, from wetlands and lakeshores to mountain forests and river valleys. Among the county’s premier birding locations are the shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene, Coeur d’Alene River Wildlife Management Area, Farragut Wildlife Management Area near Bayview and the North Idaho Centennial Trail. Each of these areas provides a unique landscape for both casual and seasoned birders to explore, with a broad array of species present throughout the seasons.

    The North Idaho Centennial Trail is a 24-mile paved trail that extends from Higgens Point on the northeast side of Lake Coeur d’Alene to the Idaho/Washington border. The trail passes through various habitats, including forests and urban areas, providing urban-accessible birding with views of gulls, grebes, and migrating flocks. One of the most celebrated birding events in Kootenai County occurs each winter at Higgens Point on the northeast end of Lake Coeur d’Alene. From late November through January, Bald Eagles gather here in striking numbers to feast on the dying kokanee salmon that spawn in the lake’s cool waters. The sight of dozens of eagles soaring, diving, and perching along the lakeshore draws photographers, birders, and nature lovers alike. Interpretive signs and accessible trails make Higgens Point an ideal spot for observing these majestic raptors up close in their natural behavior.

    For those interested in exploring these birding sites further, the Idaho Birding Trail provides comprehensive resources, including maps and species lists, to assist in planning visits to these and other notable locations in Kootenai County.

  • Tubbs Hill, a 165-acre natural area in the heart of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, offers a unique birding experience along its 2.2-mile interpretive trail that loops around the peninsula. Bordered by Lake Coeur d’Alene on three sides, the park’s diverse habitats—including mature ponderosa pine forests, rocky outcrops, and shoreline ecosystems—support a variety of bird species. Birders can observe osprey and bald eagles nesting in standing dead trees near the shoreline, while the forested areas are home to woodpeckers, Pygmy Nuthatches, and various warblers.

    Spring and fall migrations bring an influx of avian activity to Tubbs Hill. During these seasons, birders may encounter species such as MacGillivray’s and Nashville Warblers, as well as Pacific Wrens. The park’s location along Lake Coeur d’Alene makes it a strategic stopover for migratory birds, offering opportunities to observe Red-necked Grebes and Common Loons during their transit.  Additionally, the Coeur d’Alene Audubon Society conducts guided birding tours on Tubbs Hill, providing educational insights and enhancing the birding experience.

    For those interested in exploring more about birding in the Tubbs Hill area, the Idaho Birding Trail provides detailed information on birding sites across the state, including Tubbs Hill. The trail’s resources include maps, species lists, and seasonal highlights to assist birders in planning their visits.

    Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a beginner, Tubbs Hill offers a rich and accessible birding environment in the scenic backdrop of Coeur d’Alene.

  • Birding at Cougar Bay Preserve offers a serene and accessible experience just minutes from downtown. This 88-acre wetland sanctuary, located on the northwest shore of Lake Coeur d’Alene, is a haven for bird enthusiasts. The preserve’s diverse habitats—including marshes, open water, and conifer forests—support a wide variety of bird species. Visitors can explore a one-mile loop trail that meanders through these rich ecosystems, providing ample opportunities for wildlife observation. The area is home to over 27 bird species, including osprey, bald eagles, and various waterfowl, making it a prime spot for both novice and experienced birders.

    Spring and fall migrations are particularly vibrant at Cougar Bay. During these seasons, the preserve attracts numerous migratory birds, such as tree swallows, common yellowlegs, and northern shovelers. The wetlands and surrounding meadows provide essential stopover habitat for these species, offering birders the chance to witness diverse avian activity. Additionally, the presence of nesting platforms has made the area a reliable site for observing osprey during their breeding season.

    For those interested in exploring more about birding in this area, the Idaho Birding Trail is an excellent resource. It offers detailed information on various birding sites across the state, including Cougar Bay Preserve. The trail’s website provides maps, species lists, and seasonal highlights to help plan your birding adventures.

  • Birding in the Chain Lakes area of Idaho is a rewarding experience, offering a diverse array of habitats nestled along the Coeur d’Alene River between Harrison and Cataldo. This lush corridor includes Thompson Lake, Anderson Lake, Black Lake, Cave Lake, Killarney Lake, and Blue Lake, each serving as a haven for a wide variety of bird species. These wetlands and shallow waters are ideal for viewing waterfowl, shorebirds, raptors, and songbirds throughout the year. Slow drives along the river and around the lakes allow for close-up observation of birds in their natural settings, especially during early morning or late afternoon hours when activity is highest.

    During spring and fall migration, the Chain Lakes become particularly vibrant with avian life. Thompson Lake is a standout location for spotting large numbers of Tundra Swans, Northern Pintails, and American White Pelicans during the spring thaw, while Anderson and Killarney Lakes host flocks of ducks and geese, Sandhill Cranes, Yellow-headed Blackbirds, and various warblers. Black Lake, with its mix of open water and dense shoreline vegetation, often provides excellent views of Ospreys, Bald Eagles, and Great Blue Herons. Fall migration brings impressive gatherings of ducks and geese, as well as occasional sightings of rare shorebirds on exposed mudflats. The surrounding forested hills also attract woodpeckers, grosbeaks, and vireos during breeding season.

    For those planning a birding trip to the Chain Lakes, the Idaho Birding Trail website is an excellent resource. It offers site descriptions, seasonal highlights, and maps to help you navigate and plan your visit effectively. The Trail includes a section dedicated to the Coeur d’Alene River Corridor and its Chain Lakes system. You can access it here: Idaho Birding Trail – Panhandle Region. Whether you’re a novice birder or a seasoned enthusiast, the Chain Lakes region promises rich sightings and peaceful immersion in one of northern Idaho’s most biodiverse wetland landscapes.

  • The east end of Fernan Lake, located just east of downtown Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, offers a rich and accessible birding experience, particularly during spring and summer. This area encompasses a mosaic of habitats, including alder swamps, lily pad bays, and coniferous forests, providing ideal conditions for a diverse array of bird species. Notably, a bald eagle nest is situated on the south side of the lake’s east end, with birds returning by March and young observable by May. Red-necked Grebes are present year-round, often seen feeding their chicks in the lily-covered shallows. Additionally, Virginia Rails and Soras inhabit the wetlands during the summer months.

    Birders can expect to encounter a variety of species throughout the area. The cliff faces along the road host nesting Violet-green Swallows, while the surrounding thickets and forests are home to Cedar Waxwings, Kingbirds, and Steller’s Jays. The lake’s diverse habitats also attract Great Blue Herons, Ospreys, and a variety of warblers during migration seasons. The combination of aquatic and terrestrial environments makes the east end of Fernan Lake a hotspot for observing a wide range of avian life.

    For those interested in exploring more about birding at Fernan Lake, the Idaho Birding Trail provides detailed information, including maps and species lists. Additionally, the Birding Hotspots website offers insights into specific locations around the lake, such as the Fernan Lake Natural Area, highlighting the area’s rich bird diversity.

Benewah County

  • Created in 1908, Heyburn State Park is the oldest park in the Pacific Northwest. Comprised of over 5,000 acres of land and 2,300 acres of water, Heyburn State Park features three lakes — Chatcolet, Benewah and Hidden Lakes, as well as the St. Joe River, which meanders along the eastern boundary of the park. The Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes runs directly through the park.

    Heyburn State Park in Idaho has a bird blind, display panels, and a boardwalk trail that leads to the park's wildlife interpretive location. The park also has a duck blind at the 1.5-mile mark on the North Loop trail. The North Loop trail goes through a cedar and fir forest with brooks and views of the lake and waterfowl. 

    A Great Blue Heron rookery with 35-50 pairs of breeding herons can be found here. During the summer, Osprey, Wood Ducks, and Canada Geese use artificial nest structures, which have been monitored for 10-25 years. Red-necked Grebes and Soras nest here as well. At least 5,000-10,000 waterfowl use this site as a staging area from October to freeze-up. Most abundant species are American Wigeon, Mallards, and Canada Geese. There have been several records of vagrant birds here including Eurasian Wigeon, Swamp Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, Bewick’s Wren, Greater Scaup, and even a record of an Ancient Murrelet.

  • The Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, named one of the 25 top trails in the nation by the Rails to Trails Conservancy, is a 73-mile paved path traversing northern Idaho’s diverse landscapes, making it a premier destination for birding enthusiasts. Following the former Union Pacific Railroad corridor, the trail stretches from Mullan to Plummer, cutting through habitats such as mixed conifer forests, wetlands, agricultural fields, urban areas, cottonwood groves, and deep-water lakes. This variety supports a rich avian diversity, with approximately 189 regularly observed species and an additional 48 considered rare along the trail.

    Birders can encounter a wide array of species along different segments of the trail. Ospreys and Bald Eagles are commonly seen nesting near waterways, while waterfowl like American Coots, Virginia Rails, and Soras inhabit the wetlands. Songbirds such as MacGillivray’s Warblers and Pacific Wrens frequent the forested areas, and raptors including Northern Harriers and Red-tailed Hawks can be spotted soaring above open fields. The trail’s passage through the Coeur d’Alene River Wildlife Management Area and Heyburn State Park further enhances opportunities to observe diverse bird populations in their natural settings.

    For those interested in exploring birding along the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation offers resources and information on birding hotspots along the trail.

Bonner County

  • Bonner County, particularly around Sandpoint, offers exceptional birding opportunities due to its diverse habitats and strategic location along the Pacific Flyway. The region encompasses wetlands, forests, lakes, and river deltas, attracting a wide variety of bird species throughout the year.

    One notable birding hotspot is the Sunnyside Road area along Lake Pend Oreille. This route hosts tens of thousands of waterfowl in the fall, including large rafts of coots and diving birds. Hawkins Point and the adjacent Pack River flats are among the most reliable places to find a Eurasian Wigeon during this season. Additionally, Bald Eagles breed on nearby islands, and Lewis’s Woodpeckers can be spotted near Hawkins Point.

    The Pend d’Oreille Bay Trail in Sandpoint is another excellent location for birding. This 5.6 km looped trail offers scenic views along the bay and is known for its accessibility and diverse bird populations.

    For those seeking comprehensive information on birding sites in the area, the Idaho Birding Trail provides detailed maps and descriptions of various hotspots, including those in Bonner County.  Additionally, the International Selkirk Loop offers a virtual tour of over three dozen identified birding sites, encompassing a range of habitats and species.

    Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a novice, Bonner County’s rich ecosystems and well-documented trails make it a prime destination for birdwatching.

  • Sandpoint, Idaho, offers exceptional birding opportunities at both Sandpoint City Beach and the WaterLife Discovery Center, each providing unique habitats that attract a diverse array of bird species.

    Sandpoint City Beach, located at 102 Bridge Street, is renowned as one of North Idaho’s premier birding hotspots. The beach and its breakwater are excellent for observing shorebirds, gulls, and terns. Regular sightings include Ring-billed, California, and Herring Gulls, with occasional appearances by Franklin’s, Bonaparte’s, and Sabine’s Gulls, as well as Common Terns during the fall. The area also attracts diving ducks, loons, and grebes. The park’s trees provide habitat for migrant songbirds, including American Pipits, Horned Larks, Savannah Sparrows, and, during fall migration, Snow Buntings.

    Just a short drive away, the WaterLife Discovery Center in Sagle offers a more tranquil birding experience. This 10-acre facility, managed by Idaho Fish and Game, features 3.5 acres of interpretive exhibits and a 6.5-acre forested wetland with trails and wildlife viewing areas. The center is home to a variety of birds, including Bald Eagles, Ospreys, waterfowl, woodpeckers, and songbirds . Visitors can explore nature trails, overlook bridges, and interpretive signs year-round, with the indoor classroom open on weekends during the summer months.

    For those interested in exploring more birding sites in the area, the Idaho Birding Trail provides detailed information on various locations, including Sandpoint City Beach and the WaterLife Discovery Center . Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a beginner, these sites offer rich and accessible birding experiences in the scenic backdrop of Sandpoint.

  • Birding along Idaho State Highway 200 in Bonner County offers exceptional opportunities to observe a diverse array of bird species in their natural habitats. Key locations such as Denton Slough, the Clark Fork Delta, and the Johnson Creek Access provide unique environments that attract both resident and migratory birds throughout the year.

    Denton Slough, situated along the northern shore of Lake Pend Oreille, is renowned for its role as a nesting area for Western Grebes, with courtship displays typically observed in June. During the summer months, birders can also spot Double-crested Cormorants, Great Blue Herons, and Black Terns. The slough serves as a critical stopover during migration seasons, hosting thousands of waterfowl such as American Wigeons, Redheads, Lesser Scaups, Green-winged Teals, and Tundra Swans. Notably, Denton Slough is a reliable location for observing Eurasian Wigeons, especially in the fall and spring. 

    The Clark Fork Delta, where the Clark Fork River meets Lake Pend Oreille, encompasses a vast wetland complex that supports a rich diversity of birdlife. This area is particularly productive during spring and fall migrations, with large numbers of waterbirds present almost year-round. Birders can expect to see species such as Double-crested Cormorants, loons, grebes, American Coots, various ducks, and shorebirds. Fall migration highlights include sightings of American Pipits, a variety of sparrows, and occasionally Lapland Longspurs and Gray-crowned Rosy-Finches. 

    Johnson Creek Access, located off Highway 200 near Clark Fork, provides entry to a side channel of the Clark Fork River. This area has undergone restoration efforts to reduce erosion and enhance wildlife habitat, making it a valuable spot for birdwatching. The access site features improved facilities, including a gravel boat launch and stabilized banks, facilitating better access for birders and anglers alike. Visitors can explore the area to observe a variety of bird species that inhabit the riverine and wetland environments. 

    For those interested in exploring these birding sites further, the Idaho Birding Trail – North Region offers comprehensive information on various locations, including Denton Slough and the Clark Fork Delta. This resource provides maps, species lists, and seasonal highlights to assist birders in planning their visits.

Boundary County

  • Boundary County, Idaho, situated in the state’s northernmost region, offers a rich tapestry of birding opportunities across its diverse landscapes. From wetlands and riparian zones to coniferous forests and alpine meadows, the county’s varied habitats support a wide array of bird species throughout the year. Notable birding locations include the Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge, Boundary-Smith Creek Wildlife Management Area, McArthur Lake Wildlife Management Area, and Ball Creek Ranch Preserve. These sites are recognized for their ecological significance and accessibility to birders of all levels.

    During spring and fall migrations, Boundary County becomes a vital stopover for numerous waterfowl and songbird species. The Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge, for instance, hosts thousands of migrating waterfowl, including Tundra Swans, Northern Pintails, and American Wigeons . Similarly, the Boundary-Smith Creek Wildlife Management Area provides critical habitat for species such as Trumpeter Swans, Canada Geese, and various raptors . McArthur Lake Wildlife Management Area, located between Sandpoint and Bonners Ferry, is another hotspot where birders can observe a variety of waterfowl and songbirds.

    For those interested in exploring these birding sites further, the Idaho Birding Trail offers comprehensive resources, including maps, species lists, and seasonal highlights . Additionally, the Birding Hotspots website provides detailed information on specific locations within Boundary County, aiding birders in planning their visits . Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a beginner, Boundary County’s diverse ecosystems and well-documented trails make it a prime destination for birdwatching in the Pacific Northwest.

  • Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge, located just five miles west of Bonners Ferry in Boundary County, Idaho, is a premier birding destination encompassing 2,774 acres of diverse habitats. Nestled between the Selkirk Mountains and the Kootenai River, the refuge features wetlands, riparian forests, meadows, and agricultural fields, supporting over 220 bird species.  Established in 1964 to protect migratory waterfowl, it now serves as a vital stopover for thousands of birds during migration seasons.

    During spring and fall migrations, the refuge becomes a haven for waterfowl, with populations peaking at around 40,000 birds.  Species such as mallards, northern pintails, and teal are commonly observed. In early November, duck migration reaches its zenith, coinciding with the arrival of bald eagles that prey on weakened or injured ducks.  The refuge’s varied landscapes also attract other wildlife, including moose, elk, deer, and river otters, enhancing the birding experience.

    Visitors can explore the refuge via a scenic auto tour route or several walking trails, such as the Deep Creek Trail, which offers opportunities to observe birds in different habitats.  For those seeking detailed information on birding sites within the refuge and the broader region, the Idaho Birding Trail provides comprehensive resources, including maps and species lists.  Additionally, the Friends of Kootenai National Wildlife Refuge organization offers guided bird walks and educational events throughout the year, enriching the birding experience for enthusiasts of all levels.

  • Boundary-Smith Creek Wildlife Management Area (WMA), located in Boundary County near the Idaho-British Columbia border, is a premier birding destination encompassing over 2,000 acres of diverse habitats. Managed by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, the WMA features a mosaic of wetlands, floodplain meadows, and coniferous forests, providing critical habitat for a wide array of bird species throughout the year.

    During spring and fall migrations, the WMA’s managed wetlands along the lower Kootenai River support thousands of migrating waterfowl, including Tundra and Trumpeter Swans, Canada and White-fronted Geese, Black Terns, American Wigeons, Redheads, Hooded and Common Mergansers, Wood Ducks, Common Goldeneyes, and Northern Pintails . The coniferous and floodplain forests along Boundary Creek are home to Ruffed Grouse, Downy and Pileated Woodpeckers, as well as raptors like Red-tailed and Rough-legged Hawks, Northern Harriers, Bald Eagles, and Great Horned Owls.

    Visitors can explore the WMA via access roads between wetland cells and maintained trails in the upland forested areas on the west side . For detailed information on birding sites within the WMA and the broader region, the Idaho Birding Trail provides comprehensive resources, including maps and species lists . Additionally, the Birding Hotspots website offers insights into specific locations around the WMA, highlighting the area’s rich bird diversity.

Shoshone County

  • Shoshone County, Idaho, offers exceptional birding opportunities, particularly in the Kings Pass, Dobson Pass, and Settler’s Grove of Ancient Cedars areas. These locales, nestled within the Coeur d’Alene Mountains, provide diverse habitats that attract a wide array of bird species throughout the year.

    Kings Pass is renowned for its coniferous forests and riparian zones, making it a prime location to observe species such as Pine Siskins, Red Crossbills, and American Dippers during the winter months. In the summer, birders can spot Vaux’s Swifts, which are known to frequent the area. The pass’s elevation and forested environment create ideal conditions for these species.

    Dobson Pass, accessible via a scenic loop from Wallace, offers birders the chance to encounter a variety of mountain species. The area’s mixed forests and meadows provide habitats for birds such as Townsend’s Warblers, Hermit Thrushes, and various woodpecker species. The pass’s diverse terrain supports both resident and migratory birds, making it a valuable spot for year-round birding.

    Settler’s Grove of Ancient Cedars is a unique botanical area featuring centuries-old Western Red Cedars. The grove’s lush understory and proximity to the West Fork of Eagle Creek create a serene environment for birdwatching. Birders can expect to see species such as Varied Thrushes, Pacific Wrens, and Northern Pygmy Owls. The grove’s tranquil setting and rich biodiversity make it a must-visit location for bird enthusiasts.

    For those interested in exploring these birding sites further, the Idaho Birding Trail provides comprehensive resources, including maps and species lists, to assist in planning visits to these and other notable locations in Shoshone County. Additionally, the Coeur d’Alene Audubon Society offers insights and updates on birding hotspots within the region.

  • Kings Pass is renowned for its coniferous forests and riparian zones, making it a prime location to observe species such as Pine Siskins, Red Crossbills, and American Dippers during the winter months. In the summer, birders can spot Vaux’s Swifts, which are known to frequent the area. The pass’s elevation and forested environment create ideal conditions for these species.

  • Dobson Pass, accessible via a scenic loop from Wallace, offers birders the chance to encounter a variety of mountain species. The area’s mixed forests and meadows provide habitats for birds such as Townsend’s Warblers, Hermit Thrushes, and various woodpecker species. The pass’s diverse terrain supports both resident and migratory birds, making it a valuable spot for year-round birding.

  • Settler’s Grove of Ancient Cedars is a unique botanical area featuring centuries-old Western Red Cedars. The grove’s lush understory and proximity to the West Fork of Eagle Creek create a serene environment for birdwatching. Birders can expect to see species such as Varied Thrushes, Pacific Wrens, and Northern Pygmy Owls. The grove’s tranquil setting and rich biodiversity make it a must-visit location for bird enthusiasts.

  • The stretch of the Coeur d’Alene River upstream of Enaville offers a serene birding experience. This area encompasses diverse habitats, including riparian corridors, wetlands, and coniferous forests, supporting a rich array of bird species throughout the year. Notably, the Coeur d’Alene River Wildlife Management Area (WMA) extends from the river’s mouth at Harrison upstream to Cataldo, providing accessible birding opportunities along its length.

    Birders exploring the Old River Road subloop near Enaville can expect to encounter species such as Ruffed Grouse, Common Snipe, American Coots, Wild Turkeys, Northern Harriers, American Kestrels, Virginia Rails, Soras, and Belted Kingfishers. The area is particularly notable for its Osprey population, with over 50 pairs nesting along the lower Coeur d’Alene River. Spring and fall migrations bring an influx of waterfowl and songbirds, making these seasons ideal for birdwatching.

    For those interested in exploring this region further, the Idaho Birding Trail provides comprehensive resources, including maps and species lists, to assist in planning visits to these and other notable locations in Shoshone County. Additionally, the Coeur d’Alene River WMA offers accessible areas for birding by vehicle, boat, or bike, enhancing the birding experience for enthusiasts of all levels.

Resources

We encourage new birders to learn and follow the American Birding Association Birding Code of Ethics.