Tips for Birdwatching in Wilmington

Adirondack Wildlife Refuge & Rehab Center

977 Springfield Road, Wilmington, NY

The Adirondack Wildlife Refuge & Rehab Center is situated on 50 acres of forest land along the West Branch of the Ausable River in Wilmington, NY. Reopening in Spring 2022 under new management, the refuge features walking trails, fishing access to the Ausable River, beautiful birds and butterflies, native bee habitats, little brown bat habitats, and birds of prey sanctuary for rescued raptors.

Whiteface Mountain

Route 86, Lake Placid, NY

With magnificent high-elevation habitats thriving with both wildlife and birdlife, Whiteface Mountain is a haven for nature lovers. The upper elevations of Whiteface Mountain are nesting grounds for the elusive and extraordinary Bicknell’s Thrush and a prime habitat for boreal species. Hike to the summit of Whiteface Mountain or take a scenic drive along the historic Whiteface Veterans’ Memorial Highway from Wilmington (open from May to October) with views of the 46 High Peaks, Vermont, and Montreal, Canada. Whiteface Mountain is one of the few 46 High Peaks you can summit without a hike!

Heaven Hill

Bear Cub Road, Lake Placid, NY

Situated 4-miles south of the village of Lake Placid, NY, Heaven Hill Trails is a scenic High Peaks Wilderness trail system with 5-miles of easy, dog-friendly trails through diverse habitats of hardwood forests, freshwater wetlands, and wide open meadows abounding in beautiful bird life and native wildlife. The multi-use trail system is open year-round for hiking, biking, winter snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and some of the best birdwatching near Wilmington, NY.