The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service staff will lead a guided hikes to the top of Pilot Knob National Wildlife Refuge. The public hike will be held on Saturday May 16, 2026. The hike will take place at 9:00 a.m. and participants will meet at Battle of Pilot Knob State Historic Site before leaving for the refuge. During the hike, staff and volunteers from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will discuss how past mining has created critical habitat for endangered Indiana and Northern Long Ear bats. This important refuge with its unique geology and mining history provided hibernation habitat that continues today. Space is limited; participants must pre-register to reserve their spot for the hike by email Mingo@fws.gov or calling the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service office at Mingo National Wildlife Refuge at 573-222-3589. Hikers will walk up steep terrain with loose rock and uneven footing. Participants must be physically able to make this hike. More details on schedule and meeting location will be provided to registered participants.
This refuge exists to protect endangered species habitat.
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Pilot Knob National Wildlife Refuge is closed to all public entry and use.
Occasional guided hikes are offered by Mingo staff and area volunteers. Reservations are made through the Mingo National Wildlife Refuge office.
The refuge is managed by Mingo National Wildlife Refuge. For more information on the refuge call 573-222-3589.
