You are all invited to the Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Field Trip
Location: Medicine Lake Provincial Recreation Area (north of Rocky Mountain House on Hwy 22) see map, best to use a mapping app on your phone as a guide if you have one. Cell phone service is poor at the campground, but probably text msgs. will get through.
Host: Chris Olsen
When: June 13, 2026 bird walk from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and paddling from 3:00 p.m. onward.
Meet: Day use area/boat launch for both the birding walk and paddling. We may shuttle from there for the walk, or simply hike back to the trail head. We’ll paddle the lake counter-clockwise, and so people that want a short outing can see ‘water lily bay’ and do a short loop (about 2 kms) back to the launch. Those that are up for a longer paddle can continue along the far shore for as long as they like, and eventually we’ll explore the mouth of the Medicine River and loop back to the boat launch (about 4 hrs). Bring your own paddling equipment with safety gear.
While Medicine Lake Rec. Area can be booked, there are two non-reservable sites in each loop, and those are usually available to access on-site if you are interested in camping, first come first served. Chris will be camping at site A-08 June 11th to 15th, and anyone arriving early can find him there.
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend. We’re an inclusive group that learn from each other, and birders of all skill levels are welcome!
Bring your binoculars* and camera/phone. Carry water, energy snack, sunscreen, bug spray and bear spray. Wear sturdy hiking footwear, dress in layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Some trails are on rough terrain. Distances vary, but may be up to 5 kms. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues. RDRN has purchased a spotting scope and tripod. This will be a real asset for long distance observations.
*RDRN have two birding binoculars that can be borrowed (first come, first served) by new participants. Binoculars courtesy of a City of Red Deer Community Better ParticipACTION grant.
