Nature Novice: Winter Birding

Grab your warm boots – we're heading onto the trails! Join us for a winter birding hike along the forest loop trail by Rapids Lake Visitor Center where we'll enjoy a scenic winter walk. We’ll cover how to use binoculars and field guides to identify and learn more about the birds we see around us. Too much snow? No problem — we’ll start with a quick snowshoe tutorial and set off on an easy, beginner-friendly trek. This is an introductory hike so no experience needed! Binoculars, field guides, and snowshoe equipment will be provided.

Questions? Contact [MinnesotaValley@fws.gov](mailto:MinnesotaValley@fws.gov) or call (952) 854-5900.

Date and Time: Saturday, December 13, 2025 from 1-2pm

Location: Meet us at the Rapids Lake Visitor Center. 15865 Rapids Lake Rd, Carver, MN 55315

Registration Information: Registration optional through [Signup.com](https://signup.com/client/invitation2/secure/551315614023/false#/invitation).

Optional registration allows us to prepare supplies and materials for the program, send reminders, and allows us to contact you in the event of inclement weather!

Activity Level: This is an outdoor program. The introductory activity is easy active and at-your-own pace.

What to Bring: Bring warm shoes comfortable for hiking and winter gear - hat, gloves, scarves, etc.

Accessibility: Accessibility at the Rapids Lake Visitor Center:

Restrooms and a water bottle filler are available inside the visitor center. There is an outdoor restroom, but no outdoor water fountains. There is dedicated handicap parking available. The Rapids Lake Trail and Forest Loop are flat natural surface paths and the trail leading to both is paved with a slight downward slope. Depending on seasonal trail conditions, natural surface paths may be muddy (summer) or snowy (winter). Paths may not always be suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. It is a 0.1-0.2 mile walk to get to the trailhead from the parking lot. There are no rest areas along the trails, but are present inside and outside the visitor center.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is committed to providing access to these events for all participants. Please direct all requests for sign language interpreting services, close captioning, or other accommodation needs at least ten business days before the event to Oscar Hernandez at [oscar_hernandez@fws.gov](mailto:oscar_hernandez@fws.gov).