Take a guided hike during peak migration on Sept.3 at River Preserve County Park. ELKHART COUNTY, Ind. -- Fall migration is underway and early Sept. marks peak migration while birds begin to move south for the winter.
Elkhart County Parks is hosting a Bird Walk on Sept. 3 from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Benton Spillway.
“Spring migration is often thought of as the best time of the year to go birding, but fall can be just as exciting,” stated Annie Aguirre, Event Coordinator.
“The diverse habitats and waterways in the preserve act like a migration magnet to birds, so on a good day, we could see over 40 species, plus any rarities that decide to drop in.”
The free hike gives visitors the chance to follow the path of songbirds moving along the Elkhart River.
Seasonal specialties, like Olive-sided Flycatcher and Yellow-throated Vireo, along with 20 different warbler species are all likely to be seen.
The walk is open to ages eight and older.
Binoculars will be available, and activities will pursue whether rain or shine.
Birders will meet at the Benton Dam parking lot in River Preserve County Park, located one mile south of U.S. 33 on C.R. 31 in Goshen.
The Elkhart County Parks offers bird walks on the first Wednesday of every month starting at 8 a.m. The 2025 line-up includes:
- Fall Frenzy: September 3 at Benton Spillway in River Preserve County Park
- Marsh Meander: October 1 at Elkhart Bog Nature Preserve
- Corson Hike: November 5 at Corson Riverwoods County Park
- Scavenger Hunt: December 3 at Ox Bow County Park
For event details, park directions, or to discover more upcoming events visit the Elkhart County Parks website.
