Whitefish Dunes State Park Conditions

Conditions as of Thursday, November 5, 2009

Nature

Recent rains have helped both plant and animals at the park. With the much needed moisture the mushrooms have emerged and are spectacular. The dried ghosts of summer and autumn flowers can be found throughout the park. Fuzzy goldenrods, stiff Queen Anne lace and others still provide food for birds and mammals. Hike the Yellow trail for a view of the park’s diverse habitats.

The deer hunt at the park will not begin until next year (2010).

With most of the leaves off the trees, the forested dunes are revealing their hidden treasures. Summer bird nests of hawks, oven birds and warblers can now be seen. Other treasures include beech drops, lady ferns and tree club moss. Turkeys and blue jays are enjoying the fallen beech nuts along the red trail. A hike on the Red trail to Old Baldy and back will delight the eyes and ears during this autumn season.

Shelter Building

The shelter building is open to all. Enjoy a warm fire with wood provided by the Friends of Whitefish Dunes. Please be respectful of others and the Friends by cleaning up the shelter after using it.

Beach

Early morning sunrise brings unique look to the beach. Enjoy a quiet walk as the day starts. View migrating waterfowl and song birds. Watch for the gray fox as he hunts along the shore for washed up fish. Others are also looking for a meal. Keep an eye out for the bald eagle as they scan the shoreline for food. The washed up cladophera brings in a bounty for the diving and dabbling ducks. Canada geese, mallards and wood ducks enjoy the treats caught by the net-like algae. Buffleheads, mergansers, redheads, and ruddy ducks can be seen rafting up for winter. Rarely seen Ruddy turnstones were spotted searching the waters edge for food on its migration south.

The entire beach is now open to dogs. Please remember that pets must remain on a leash 8 feet or shorter for their safety and the safety of the park wildlife. Be a responsible pet owner and clean up after your pet. Pets are not allowed on groomed ski trails. Please respect our volunteer groomers’ time by hiking the beach or Black Trail to enjoy the park with your pet.

Vehicle Admission Stickers

When the park office is closed, use the self-registration station to buy admission stickers.

There is no camping at Whitefish Dunes State Park.

More Information

Weather [exit DNR]

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For more information, ask Whitefish Dunes State Park, (920) 823-2400.