Spring Birding Hike

Location of New River Trail State Park in Virginia

Where

New River Trail State Park, 116 Orphanage Dr., Max Meadows, VA 24360.
Ivanhoe Car Parking Lot - 356 Riverview Rd. Ivanhoe, Va 24350

When

May 20, 2023. 7:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Peak songbird migration along the New River is mid-April to mid-May. Each spring in Virginia, warblers and other neotropical songbirds travel through Virginia along the Atlantic Flyway. This annual journey presents a marvelous opportunity to experience the colors and sounds of spring migration. These hikes are open to all ages and skill levels. Beginners are always welcome! Free birding apps such as Merlin Bird ID and eBird are excellent resources.

Please wear closed-toed shoes, and don't forget water and binoculars! To increase chances of bird sightings, no dogs please.

Participants will meet at the Ivanhoe Birding Trail at 7:30 am. The Birding Trail is a 1.2 mile walk (24 minutes) from the Ivanhoe Access Parking Area to the Ivanhoe Bridge. A State Park van will also be available to shuttle participants from the trailhead to the birding trail from 7:15 a.m. to 7:45 a.m. Expect to hike about 1.5 miles on the birding trail.

Why are we birding so early? Have you ever heard the saying "the early bird gets the worm?" Many birds are most active in the early morning, taking advantage of the abundance of insects at that hour.

Pine Warbler Photo credit: Katie Cordle

Pine Warbler
Photo credit: Katie Cordle

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 276-699-6778
Email Address: NewRiverTrail@dcr.virginia.gov