Spring is for the Birds

For bird enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable spring adventure, Ha Ha Creek Road, 20 minutes south of Cranbrook, offers the perfect one-day bird watching destination. This area boasts pristine wetlands, marshes, and open fields teeming with migratory and resident bird species. Whether you're a seasoned birder or a casual nature lover, the diverse habitats found at Bednorski Lake, Ha Ha Lake, and Lund Lake provide a rare opportunity to witness the vibrant birdlife of the region.

With easy access from Cranbrook, you can enjoy an immersive day in nature, soaking in the serene beauty of the landscape while spotting everything from waterfowl to songbirds. Springtime is the ideal season for bird watching here, as the return of migratory species fills the skies with life and color. By booking a room at Elizabeth Lake Lodge, you’ll have the opportunity to extend your bird watching at Elizabeth Lake Bird Sanctuary.

Tips For A Successful Bird-Watching Day

Pack a Lunch: If you plan to head out early, grabbing your lunch the night before is a great idea. There are many options in Cranbrook to pack a lunch, with a few of our favourites including Delightfull, Dash Eatery, Kootenay Grounds, Morchella Market & Cafe, Hot Shots Café or Rick’s.
Grab Breakfast: We recommend checking out one of Cranbrook’s early morning stops, such as Max’s Place, which opens at 7am, for one of their popular lattes and legendary cinnamon buns.
Start Early: Birds are most active just after sunrise, so hit the trail early for the best chances of sightings.
Patience and Silence: Move slowly and stay quiet to avoid disturbing the birds.
Respect Nature: Stay on marked trails, outside of fenced areas, avoid loud noises, and give the birds space to avoid stressing them.
Track Your Sightings: Use apps like eBird to log your bird sightings and contribute to local conservation efforts.
Pack Essentials: Check out the list below to help you best prepare for your day! If you’ve forgotten anything below, stop by Mountain Man Outdoors or High Country Sports, as each carries an abundance of outdoor essentials.

Binoculars
Bird identification apps (eBird)
Camera (optional but recommended)
Field notebook or bird log
Layered clothing for changing weather.

Bednorski Lake

Travel Time from Cranbrook: 20 minutes via Hwy 93/95 — Get Directions

Birds to Watch For:

Waterfowl: Northern Shovelers, Green-winged Teals, Ruddy Ducks
Shorebirds: Killdeer and Wilson's Snipe near the marsh edges
Songbirds: Warbling Vireo, Yellow-rumped Warblers

Highlights: Bednorski Lake is a birding haven, especially during spring migration. Its marshes and calm waters attract a wide variety of waterfowl, offering ample opportunities to spot species you might not see elsewhere. Spend some time walking the perimeter for the best views.

Ha Ha Lake

Travel Time from Bednorski Lake: Under 5 minutes along Ha Ha Creek Road — Get Directions

Birds to Watch For:

Raptors: Red-tailed Hawks, Northern Harrier and Bald Eagles are frequently seen overhead
Waterfowl: Canada Geese, Hooded Merganser, and Bufflehead Ducks
Woodland Birds: American Robins, Western Wood-Pewee

Highlights: Ha Ha Lake is nestled in a forested area that provides prime habitat for both raptors and smaller birds. Keep an eye on the treetops for Bald Eagles, and don't forget to scan the lake’s edge for ducks and geese. It’s also a good spot for watching nesting activity in the spring.

Lund Lake

Travel Time from Ha Ha Lake: Under 5 minutes along Ha Ha Creek Road — Get Directions

Birds to Watch For:

Migratory Birds: Sandhill Cranes, Trumpeter Swans
Songbirds: Western Meadowlark, Savannah Sparrows, Tree Swallows
Wetland Birds: Great Blue Herons often spotted near the shoreline

Highlights: Lund Lake is a vital stopover for many migratory birds, making it an exciting place for spring birdwatching. Here, you’re likely to witness Sandhill Cranes or even hear their distinctive calls. The surrounding meadows and marshes are perfect for spotting various songbirds and waders as well.

Your birder adventure is calling—so grab your binoculars and head out to experience this remarkable birding destination firsthand! Its tranquil lakes and marshes are home to some of the most iconic migratory and resident bird species of the Kootenays. From the towering Bald Eagles of Ha Ha Lake to the graceful Sandhill Cranes at Lund Lake, the diversity of wildlife here makes it a must-visit destination for bird lovers, conveniently only 20 minutes outside of Cranbrook, BC.