
Seney National Wildlife Refuge
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
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak wildlife activity

Seney National Wildlife Refuge
Best Time
Peak wildlife activity
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!
"What an absolute hidden gem. If you're even a little bit interested in birdwatching, this must make it onto your U.P. itinerary."

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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Wildlife Viewing from Your Car
Enjoy spectacular views and spot various animals, including sandhill cranes and beavers, without even leaving your vehicle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Wildlife
Plan Your Visit Around the Loons
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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:
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
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
Absolutely! The Robinson Road trails are highly recommended for mountain biking, offering a great way to explore the preserve and spot wildlife.
The refuge is considered a fantastic place for birding with kids or those with limited mobility, suggesting good accessibility in many areas.
The refuge offers beautiful two-track roads and scenic drives, allowing you to view wildlife and landscapes from your vehicle.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
There is a visitor center that provides maps, information, and exhibits about the refuge's wildlife and ecosystems.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing wildlife from a distance. Binoculars are also useful for spotting subjects before you aim your camera.
Yes, many visitors try to capture the famous loons, ABJ and Fe. Remember to maintain a respectful distance to avoid disturbing them.
🎫 🌿 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.
Seney National Wildlife Refuge features vast wetland areas, pine forests, and the distinctive Strangmoor Bog, supporting a rich biodiversity.
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.
Expect to see various bird species, including loons and sandhill cranes. You might also spot mammals like otters, beavers, and deer.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
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.
🐦 Birdwatchers & Nature Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Fascinating World of Seney's Loons
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit