Best Seasons to Visit
Available Amenities and Activities
Restrooms Available Parking Available Trails Available
Description
McGulpin Point offers spectacular views of the Straits of Mackinac including the Mackinac Bridge and St. Helena Island. This is the best location for watching migrating waterbirds in the spring and fall and serves as the waterbird count location used by the Mackinac Straits Raptor Watch. Redheads stage in the straits by the thousands and Long-tailed Ducks also stage in the area in large numbers. Both Common and Red-throated Loons often fly by, while all three Scoters species are regular, with White-winged being common. Observers can frequently see both Red-necked and Horned Grebes floating on the water or flying by. In addition to waterfowl, an observer can see many raptors flying over the water including: Red-tailed Hawks, Northern Harriers, Bald Eagles, and even the occasional Golden Eagle. Migrating songbirds such as American Pipits, Lapland Longspurs, and Snow Bunting often use the beach during migration. The woods between the beach and the lighthouse feature a trail that during migration hosts warblers, finches, and kinglets. And while there, be sure to visit the historic lighthouse. During the warmer months, restrooms can be found at the parking lot at the top of the hill, just across the street from the lighthouse.
What’s Nearby
Mackinaw City, Mackinac Island, Colonial Michilimackinac, McGulpin Point Lighthouse, The Headlands Dark Sky Park (also a Sunset Coast Birding Trail Site)
Notable Birds
Readhead, Long-tailed Duck, White-winged Scoter, Red-necked Grebe, Horned Grebe, Common Loon, Red-throated Loon, Bald Eagle, Golden Eagle, Red-tailed Hawk, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Double-crested Cormorant
Recent Sightings
Species | Quantity | Observation Date | Confirmed |
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