Seney National Wildlife Refuge

Copyright: Patty Elton-Interactive Outdoors, Inc. American Black Bear, Euarctos americanus

Attractions - There is variety of ways to enjoy Seney National Wildlife Refuge. A good way to orient oneself with this vast wetland is by starting at the visitor center, which is open everyday from May 15 to October 15, 9 AM to 5 PM. Ripe with wildlife exhibits that include history, habitat, and ecology, the center hosts a daily slide show from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The visitor center is a great source of reference. This is the location from which you obtain bird watching, wildlife viewing, hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing and scenic driving information. While at the visitor center, many folks begin their refuge tour by exploring Pine Ridge Nature Trail, a 1.4-mile loop located just outside the center affording an intimate look at habitat, plants and wildlife. Animals known to inhabit the refuge include black bear, wolves, white-tailed deer, red fox, otter, beaver, bald eagle, osprey, Canada geese, trumpeter swan, and the common loon.

The Marshland Wildlife Drive is a 7-mile self-guided driving tour exploring deeper into the heart of the refuge. One- way vehicle traffic is permitted everyday from May 15 to October 15. Drivers should be aware that hikers and bikers use the route as well. Along the route, three observation decks equipped with scopes enhance the visitor's wildlife viewing opportunities. Remember that spring and fall are the best seasons and that early morning or dusk visits produce the most rewarding sites. Evening is a popular visitation time, consequently the staff recommends an early morning visit. Call for details: 906-586 -9851.

Berry picking and mushrooms gathering is permitted. Spring morel mushrooms and late summer blueberries are just two of the wild foods growing wild amid the landscape.

Canoeing is a great way to experience the area but use is restricted to Manistique, Driggs and Creighton Rivers and Walsh Creek. There is no overnight camping along the water routes, but canoe rentals are available through Northland Outfitters (906-586-9801), who incidentally also rent bikes and cross-country ski gear. A network of 70 trail miles is afforded to hikers and mountain bikers. Snowshoers and cross-country skiers are welcome; groomed trails are provided mid-December through mid-March. (Maps at visitor center)

Areas of the refuge are open to hunting and fishing. Rules and special regulations apply.

Recreation - Seney NWR affords the recreational opportunities of hiking, biking, fishing, scenic driving, wildlife viewing, bird watching, and nature photography. Canoeing and picnicking are available nearby. Hunting and fishing are permitted on a restricted basis.

Climate - The Upper Peninsula normally experiences mild summers with average temperatures near 70 degrees F (21 degrees C). Winter temperatures average 14 degrees F (-10 degrees C). Rain and snowmelt in the region can reach up to 160 inches annually. Travelers should be aware that significant amounts of snow could fall within a relatively short period of time resulting in hazardous road conditions.

Location - Seney National Widllife Refuge is located in the Upper Peninsula approximately 2 miles north of Germfask and 5 miles south of Seney.