I’m a little ashamed to admit that despite living in the Finger Lakes region for the better part of 40 years and having driven past it countless times, I had never visited the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge until just recently. What we lovingly referred to as kids as the “giant swamp,” is actually over 10,000 acres of wetland that provides a breeding ground and resting spot for more than 240 species of migratory birds including herons, egrets, ducks, and geese.
The history of refuge dates all the way back to 1938 when FDR signed an executive order to establish the area as a bird refuge. This land preserve just north of Cayuga Lake is now an important resting spot for thousands of migratory birds along one of the most active flight lanes.
In recent years, the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge has played host to a growing population of bald eagles. There are six active bald eagle nests in the refuge and, if you’re patient, there’s a good chance you may spot an eagle as we did during our visit. How cool is that!
Don’t worry if you don’t have the sharpest eye – there are bound to be bird spotters out and about, so be on the lookout for parked cars or groups of people, as they may indicate an eagle is nearby.
Although the NYS Thruway crosses the northern tip of Montezuma and you can get a glimpse of the swamp as you fly past, I’ve learned (some 40 years later) that it’s well worth the stop to get a closer look at the wildlife. The refuge is open year round from sunrise to sunset, though some routes and trails are only open seasonally so be sure to check the website for updates before you go. There are many options for exploring – by road, on hiking trails, or at the visitor center. Many folks opt to do the 3.5 mile Wildlife Drive by car. This route circles the main pool of the wetland and offers many opportunities for spotting birds and other wildlife.
If you’re looking to get closer to nature, there are a couple options for walks of varying lengths. The Seneca Trail is a short one mile loop with an accessible viewing platform overlooking the main pool. The South Spring Pool and Esker Brook trails are about 4 miles long with a bit more challenging terrain than the Seneca Trail loop, though not horribly difficult by any means.
If you’re hoping to spot a bald eagle or two (and who isn’t?), be sure to stop by the visitor center when you arrive. The staff there can give you the most up to date information on best viewing locations.
Know before you go
Closest lake: Cayuga
Address: 3395 US-20, Seneca Falls, NY 13148
Website: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Montezuma/
Finger Lakes Explorers 