Spring into Birding - Ivanhoe

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

April 26, 2025. 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Happy Earth Week!

Join Naturalist Patty Elton on a spring birding hike at beautiful New River Trail State Park. Peak songbird migration along the New River is mid-April to mid-May. Each spring in Virginia, warblers and other 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. Free birding apps such as Merlin Bird ID and eBird are excellent resources.

Please wear closed-toe shoes, and don't forget water, snacks, and binoculars. To increase chances of bird sightings, no dogs please. Participants will meet at the Ivanhoe Access parking area at 7:30 a.m. Birding begins at 8 a.m. This will be about a 2.5-mile round trip walk. 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.

Location: Please note the meeting location is at the Ivanhoe trail access, not at the horse trailer parking area.

photo of a flying Bald Eagle

About Earth Day

In celebration of Earth Day on April 22, Virginia State Parks offers a range of special events and activities highlighting the importance of conservation and sustainability. Visitors are invited to participate in educational programs, guided nature walks, wildlife observation, tree plantings and service projects to help preserve the beauty and biodiversity of the state’s 43 parks.

Other details

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