The locations listed below are for both captive and free-flying Trumpeter Swans found within Three Rivers Park District (Park District). The locations of nonbreeding, free-flying swans are changeable. Most nests hatch by mid June. The places listed are the wetlands where a visitor is most likely to observe Trumpeters, but birds are also frequently seen in other wetlands and fields throughout Hennepin County and adjacent metro area counties.
Wintering swans can be seen December through early March in Monticello. Read more about wintering swans.
Reporting Swan Sightings
If you see Trumpeter Swans outside of the Park District, please make
an effort to read any collar or wing tag codes and report them to:
Three
Rivers Park District
Natural Resources Management
12615 County Road 9 - Suite 100
Plymouth, MN 55441-1248
Phone: 763/694-7851.
e-mail: mlinck@threeriversparkdistrict.org
Thanks, and enjoy these
majestic birds!
Trumpeter Swan Locations - Spring and Summer 2008
Baker Park Reserve
- Baker Swan Refuge
Currently, there are three rehabilitated and banded swans being kept here. Free-flying subadult swans may be seen here throughout the year, particularly during the fall and winter (70 swans are not uncommon). From the parking lot on County Road 201, follow the bike trail south to the gravel road leading into the park. Turn right to Refuge. Round trip walk about ½ mile.
- Beaver Pond
A pair of Trumpeters hatched 5 cygnets (young) in June 2008. Parking available on County Road 201. Follow the bike trail to the southeast end of the park. The swans are frequently visible from the horse and bike trails. Round trip about 2 miles.
- Marshview Campground Marsh
There has been a nesting pair of Trumpeters using this wetland the last 10 years. Visible from County Road 24 and Marshview Group Camp. The male has green collar 2A8. The pair has been seen swimming in the northeast corner in June 2008, but cygnets have not yet been verified.
- Lake Katrina
A pair nested here in 2007 and again in 2008. They have 5 cygnets this year and can often be viewed just west of the Swan Refuge fence from the bench overlooking the Refuge. Refer to Baker Swan Refuge (above) for directions.
Crow-Hassan Park Reserve
- North Twin Marsh
A pair of Trumpeters began nesting here in 2003 when they raised 5 cygnets. From the north gate, walk along the gravel road to view North Twin Marsh. Cygnets have not been verified this year.
Elm Creek Park Reserve
- Pairs have been observed on territory at Mud Lake, Hayden Lake, Powers West Hayden Lake, Lake and Lemans Lake. The swans on Mud and Lemans Lakes are often seen from the bike trails. The other locations are very remote and difficult to view from any trail. The West Hayden Lake family has 3 cygnets this year. This information will be updated as additional broods are confirmed.
Carver Park Reserve
- Fred E. King Waterfowl Sanctuary (Lunsten Lake)
A pair of Trumpeters has nested here for many years. The pair with 5 cygnets can be viewed from the King Blind.
Lake Rebecca Park Reserve
- Rebecca Refuge
Captive and free-flying Trumpeter Swans may be seen here year round. During late October and through November, this wetland has become a staging area for swans moving to wintering locations. During late fall, over 80 Trumpeters may be seen at one time in the Refuge. The captive swans have red or white collars.
The gravel refuge road can be accessed on foot from the Hilltop picnic area. There is also the John Hannah Trumpeter Swan Overlook that can be reached via the Refuge Trail accessed from the rental/trailhead building. In late fall, it is best to call 763/694-7851 for information on park closings.
- Kasma Marsh
A brood of cygnets hatched in late May and are visible from the bike trail. This marsh has the longest continuous record of Trumpeter Swan nesting in the Park District. Visible from the bike/hike trail on the south side of the park and from the gravel refuge road on the east side.
- Roy Lake and Rattail Lakes also have nesting pairs, but are more difficult to view from the trails.
Accessibility
Persons with disabilities should call 763/694-7851 to find out about
special permit options to view the swans at the above locations.
