Seney National Wildlife Refuge - Image 1
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Seney National Wildlife Refuge

4.8
·852 reviews·Germfask, United States

A vast wetland and pine forest wilderness, home to migratory birds and the iconic Strangmoor Bog. Famous for its loon drama!

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Dawn & Dusk

Peak wildlife activity

CrowdLow
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Seney National Wildlife Refuge - Image 1

Seney National Wildlife Refuge

Best Time

Dawn & Dusk

Peak wildlife activity

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast wetland and pine forest wilderness, home to migratory birds and the iconic Strangmoor Bog. Famous for its loon drama!

4.8
(852 reviews)

"What an absolute hidden gem. If you're even a little bit interested in birdwatching, this must make it onto your U.P. itinerary."

Vertical photo
TIP

Pack Insect Repellent

Horse flies and deer flies can be intense. Be prepared to avoid getting out of your truck! :bug:

Bring Binoculars

Enhance your wildlife viewing experience and spot birds from afar. :binoculars:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Famous Loons

The Famous Loons

Witness the captivating drama of ABJ and Fe, the world's oldest loons, in their natural habitat. A must-see for wildlife enthusiasts.

Strangmoor Bog Boardwalk

Strangmoor Bog Boardwalk

Explore this unique wetland ecosystem and its diverse plant life on a scenic boardwalk. A peaceful immersion in nature.

Wildlife Viewing from Your Car

Wildlife Viewing from Your Car

Enjoy spectacular views and spot various animals, including sandhill cranes and beavers, without even leaving your vehicle.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Wildlife

Visit during dawn or dusk for the best chances to spot active wildlife like otters and beavers. Be prepared for biting insects, especially horse and deer flies, during warmer months. Pack insect repellent!

Plan Your Visit Around the Loons

The Seney National Wildlife Refuge is famous for its loon drama, particularly the long-standing saga of ABJ and Fe. Check local updates for the latest on these beloved birds.

Best Times

When
Dawn & Dusk
Why
Peak wildlife activity
Crowd
Low
When
Summer Mornings
Why
Fewer biting insects
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Will ABJ and Fe get back together this season? And if so, will they hatch a record 33rd chick? Tune in to all the drama at the Seney National Wildlife Refuge and find out. #michigan
@mlivenews
6.8K likes • 63.6K views

Pack Insect Repellent

Horse flies and deer flies can be intense. Be prepared to avoid getting out of your truck! :bug:

Bring Binoculars

Enhance your wildlife viewing experience and spot birds from afar. :binoculars:

These birds at the Seney National Wildlife Refuge sure do cause a lot of drama! #greenscreen #loon #michigan #michigannews #loons #drama #tea
@mlivenews
2.1K likes • 25.3K views
#seneynationalwildliferefuge is a wonderful stop if you’re #Rockhounding in the #upperpeninsula on vacation! Stay Plan- #northlandoutfitterscampground is right up the road in #Germfask and you can stay in the #Troll cabin! ✌️ #VacationIdea #Travelista #MustSee #photographerslife #Vacationing
noobieproficient
15 likes • 1.6K views

Explore the Trails

Robinson Road trails are great for biking and offer chances to see otters and beavers. :athletic_shoe:

Check Loon Updates

Follow the Seney National Wildlife Refuge Facebook page for the latest on ABJ and Fe's drama. :iphone:

Beautiful loons at Seney National Wildlife refuge. #seneynationalwildliferefuge #loons #ABJ The first photo is the famous ABJ who is 36 years old. He was talking an afternoon nap. #upperpeninsulamichigan
yooper_farmgirl
6 likes • 237 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Pack Insect Repellent

Horse flies and deer flies can be intense. Be prepared to avoid getting out of your truck! :bug:

Bring Binoculars

Enhance your wildlife viewing experience and spot birds from afar. :binoculars:

Explore the Trails

Robinson Road trails are great for biking and offer chances to see otters and beavers. :athletic_shoe:

Check Loon Updates

Follow the Seney National Wildlife Refuge Facebook page for the latest on ABJ and Fe's drama. :iphone:

Scenic Drive

The drive through the refuge offers spectacular views and unexpected wildlife encounters. :car:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(852 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Seney National Wildlife Refuge, calling it a 'hidden gem' and a 'bird-watching paradise.' The chance to see unique wildlife like loons, otters, and beavers, often from the comfort of your car, is a major highlight. The scenic drives and trails offer beautiful natural immersion.

"What an absolute hidden gem. If you're even a little bit interested in birdwatching, this must make it onto your U.P. itinerary. I stopped into the temporary visitor center and was greeted by a trio of friendly and very knowledgable gentlemen who gave me the rundown on where to go and what to expect and sent me with a bunch of really nice maps, postcards and a book about the refuge. I hadn't been here in decades and I definitely won't wait so long next time.

This is a fantastic place for birding if you are traveling with kids or people with limited mobility."

Amy Hiltunen

"Essential to visit alongside your pictured rocks trip! Bird-watching paradise, even from your car. The Robinson Rd trails were also great, highly recommend a mountain bike. Seeing an otter and beaver in the daytime was incredible, would love to go back at dawn or dusk to see even more. Could easily spend a few days exploring the whole preserve, can’t wait to get back."

Alec Ashburn

"Horse flies and deer flies are out in force!! We were afraid to get out of the truck. There were 100's swarming around the truck as we drove thru the refuge. But the scenery and wildlife was beautiful!"

Lana Zesiger -Kaufmann

What People Like

Abundant wildlife sightings
Scenic drives
Loon drama

What People Dislike

Biting insects

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Seney National Wildlife Refuge is located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The main entrance is accessible via M-28. Many visitors drive through the refuge as part of a larger road trip in the UP. InstagramReddit

Yes, parking is available at various points within the refuge, including near the visitor center and trailheads. Some areas may have a small fee for parking. TikTok

Absolutely! The Robinson Road trails are highly recommended for mountain biking, offering a great way to explore the preserve and spot wildlife. Reddit

The refuge is considered a fantastic place for birding with kids or those with limited mobility, suggesting good accessibility in many areas. Reddit

The refuge offers beautiful two-track roads and scenic drives, allowing you to view wildlife and landscapes from your vehicle. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Seney National Wildlife Refuge is generally free, though there might be a small fee for parking at specific locations or for special events. TikTok

The refuge is typically open year-round during daylight hours for general access. Specific facilities like visitor centers may have seasonal hours. It's best to check their official website for the most current information.

While formal guided tours might not always be available, the refuge often has knowledgeable staff at the visitor center who can provide maps and information about the best viewing spots. Reddit

Pets are generally allowed in Seney National Wildlife Refuge but must be kept on a leash at all times. They are not permitted in buildings or on some designated trails to protect wildlife. Instagram

There is a visitor center that provides maps, information, and exhibits about the refuge's wildlife and ecosystems. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The entire refuge is a photographer's paradise! Keep an eye out along the roads and trails for loons, sandhill cranes, otters, and beavers. Dawn and dusk offer the best light. Instagram+1

You can photograph a wide variety of birds, including the famous loons, sandhill cranes, trumpeter swans, and Canadian geese. Mammals like otters and beavers are also common sightings. Instagram+1

The main challenge can be the biting insects during warmer months, which might limit your time spent outside the vehicle. Also, wildlife can be elusive, so patience is key. Reddit

A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing wildlife from a distance. Binoculars are also useful for spotting subjects before you aim your camera. Instagram

Yes, many visitors try to capture the famous loons, ABJ and Fe. Remember to maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbing them. Instagram+1

🎫 🌿 Nature & Activities

The refuge is renowned for its birdwatching opportunities, especially the loons, and the unique Strangmoor Bog. Scenic drives and trails offer chances to see diverse wildlife. InstagramReddit

Seney National Wildlife Refuge features vast wetland areas, pine forests, and the distinctive Strangmoor Bog, supporting a rich biodiversity. Instagram

Yes, there are several trails, including the Robinson Road trails, which are great for hiking and biking. The Strangmoor Bog Boardwalk offers a unique wetland experience. Reddit

Expect to see various bird species, including loons and sandhill cranes. You might also spot mammals like otters, beavers, and deer. InstagramReddit

It's an absolute birdwatching paradise! The refuge is a critical stop for migratory birds and home to many resident species, making it a top destination for birders. InstagramReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Seney National Wildlife Refuge is an excellent destination for families. The refuge is noted as being particularly good for birdwatching with kids, making it an engaging and educational outing. The ability to see wildlife from the car is a huge plus, keeping younger ones entertained without requiring extensive walking. Reddit

Consider packing binoculars for the kids to use, enhancing their viewing experience. The Strangmoor Bog Boardwalk offers a safe and accessible way for families to explore a unique environment. Be sure to bring insect repellent as biting flies can be present, especially during warmer months, to ensure a comfortable experience for everyone. Reddit

🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers

Seney National Wildlife Refuge is a perfect stop for road trippers exploring Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The scenic drive through the refuge offers spectacular views and frequent opportunities to spot wildlife without needing to leave your vehicle. It's an ideal way to break up a long drive and experience the natural beauty of the region. InstagramReddit

Even for a day trip, Seney provides a rich experience. You can focus on a scenic drive, a short walk on the Strangmoor Bog Boardwalk, or spend time at a designated viewing area. The temporary visitor center can offer valuable maps and insights to maximize your limited time. TikTok

🐦 Birdwatchers & Nature Enthusiasts

For birdwatchers, Seney National Wildlife Refuge is an absolute must-visit. It's a critical stop for migratory birds and boasts a diverse resident population, including the famous loons and impressive sandhill cranes. Bring your binoculars and camera for an unforgettable experience. Instagram+1

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the refuge's varied habitats, from wetlands to pine forests. The Strangmoor Bog offers a unique ecological perspective, while the chance to see otters and beavers adds to the allure. The well-maintained trails and scenic drives cater to various exploration preferences. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Fascinating World of Seney's Loons

Seney National Wildlife Refuge is perhaps most famous for its resident common loons, particularly the long-standing avian soap opera involving ABJ and Fe. These two are among the oldest known loons, and their relationship dynamics have captivated visitors and online followers alike. Social media buzzes with updates on their potential pairings and nesting success each season. TikTokInstagram+3

Watching these magnificent birds is a highlight for many. Their distinctive calls echoing across the water are an iconic sound of the refuge. While the drama of ABJ and Fe is a major draw, the refuge is home to many other loons, all contributing to the vibrant ecosystem. Remember to observe them from a respectful distance to ensure their well-being. Instagram

For the latest on the loon drama, many visitors and fans turn to the Seney National Wildlife Refuge's Facebook page. This provides real-time updates and insights into the lives of these fascinating creatures, making your visit even more engaging.

Exploring the Unique Strangmoor Bog

The Strangmoor Bog is a significant ecological feature within the Seney National Wildlife Refuge, offering a unique glimpse into a wetland ecosystem. This area is characterized by its acidic waters, sphagnum moss, and specialized plant life adapted to these challenging conditions. It's a crucial habitat for various invertebrates and amphibians. Instagram

A boardwalk allows visitors to traverse parts of the bog without disturbing the delicate environment. This provides an accessible way to experience the bog's distinct flora and fauna. The boardwalk offers a peaceful and immersive experience, allowing you to appreciate the subtle beauty and ecological importance of this specialized habitat. Instagram

While not as overtly dramatic as the loon sightings, exploring the Strangmoor Bog offers a different kind of natural wonder. It's a place for quiet observation and learning about the intricate balance of life in a unique Michigan wetland. The refuge's commitment to conservation ensures that areas like Strangmoor Bog are preserved for future generations to appreciate.

Wildlife Encounters: Beyond the Birds

While Seney National Wildlife Refuge is a birdwatcher's paradise, the opportunities for wildlife viewing extend far beyond avian species. Visitors frequently report sightings of otters and beavers, especially during dawn and dusk when these mammals are most active. These encounters can be incredibly rewarding, offering a chance to see these fascinating creatures in their natural environment. Reddit

The refuge's diverse habitats, including wetlands and forests, support a variety of mammals. Driving through the refuge, especially along roads like Robinson Road, increases your chances of spotting deer, and if you're lucky, perhaps even other larger mammals. The sheer abundance of life makes every visit a potential adventure. Reddit+1

For those interested in a more active exploration, mountain biking on the Robinson Road trails has been highlighted as a fantastic way to cover more ground and increase your chances of encountering wildlife. This approach allows you to immerse yourself more deeply in the refuge's natural beauty and discover its hidden inhabitants. Reddit

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