Detroit River
Trenton, MI 48183
Plan Your Visit
Driving Directions
The Refuge Gateway and Humbug Marsh units, including the John D. Dingell Jr. Visitor Center, are located at 5437 West Jefferson Avenue, Trenton, Michigan 48183. Directions are also available for the Gibraltar Bay Unit (Grosse Ile), Strong Unit (Monroe County), and Fix Unit (Monroe County).
Visit Us Via the Downriver Linked Greenway Trails
You can bicycle, walk or kayak to the Refuge Gateway via the North South Trail and Detroit Heritage River Water Trail. The current trail network includes more than 100 miles of both water and land trails.
Fees
There is no charge to visit the refuge.
Points of Interest
The Refuge Gateway includes a world-class fishing pier, picnic area, and nature trails (Orange and Green nature trails) behind the visitor center. Other units open for self-guided exploration include Gibraltar Bay, Strong, and Fix units. Sugar Island’s western beach is open Memorial Day – Labor Day.
America the Beautiful Passes are available at the John D. Dingell Jr. Visitor Center. Backup payment options are recommended as credit card processing has been an issue.
The refuge provides access to America the Beautiful Passes, which include lifetime options for seniors and individuals with permanent disabilities.
Activities
More Activities
Get Involved
Whether you want to further conservation, learn more about nature or share your love of the outdoors, you’ve come to the right place. National wildlife refuges provide many opportunities for you to help your community by doing what you love through partnerships with volunteers and local organizations.
Working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.
Services
The John D Dingell Jr. Visitor Center provides an information desk, Nature Store (cash and credit), and equipment lending for binoculars, fishing poles with tackle boxes, and explorer packs. Indoor restrooms are available during visitor center hours; outdoor restrooms are open daily from dusk to dawn.
About
Established in 2001, Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge is North America's first and only international wildlife refuge, spanning over 6,200 acres along the lower Detroit River and Lake Erie. It consists of more than 30 separate parcels managed for the conservation and restoration of native fish, wildlife, and plant habitats. A highlight of the refuge is Humbug Marsh, which is recognized as a Wetland of International Importance due to its ecological significance as a spawning ground and migratory stopover.