Two children looking at a herd of elk from the bed of a carriage in a snowy landscape with mountains in the background

The refuge offers outstanding opportunities to observe (by eye and ear) a great variety of grassland birds. Upland Sandpipers, Bobolink, Eastern Meadowlarks and Grasshopper Sparrows may be found during the breeding season. Short-eared Owls, Rough-legged Hawks, Northern Harriers, Horned Larks and Snow Buntings are frequent visitors during the wintering months. Five observation blinds are located along the trails to facilitate wildlife viewing.

From November 1st through April 1st each year, there are trail closures on the refuge for the protection of overwintering Short-eared owls. The November 1st through April 1st trail map can be found below: 

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