Renowned for its majestic beauty, the Wilmington Notch features huge cliff faces towering above the West Branch of the Ausable River. The only real option here is roadside birding, but it's worth it if you have a good eye and a spotting scope to look for peregrine falcons high on the cliff face or racing in the air in pursuit of prey.
Getting there
There are several pull-offs on the western side of Route 86 that offer stunning views of the cliffs and the Ausable River.
Birding
Habitats: Exposed cliffs, riverine riparian area.
Featured birds: Peregrine Falcon, Osprey
Season: Best during spring and early summer nesting season. The male Peregrine Falcons typically return to the area sometime in March and are followed by the females some weeks later.
* Notes: These cliffs are off-limits to rock climbers during peregrine falcon nesting season.
Accessibility Information
Packages and Promotions
Valid Mar. 28 - Apr. 3
Valid Mar. 4 - Apr. 3
Winter Clearance at Whiteface!
Brookside Apparel
40% off Select Items!
Valid Apr. 4 - Apr. 10
Valid Mar. 4 - Apr. 10
Winter Clearance - Helmets, Goggles and Poles!
Brookside Apparel
40% off Helmets, Goggles and Poles!
Valid Apr. 11 - Apr. 30
Valid Mar. 4 - Apr. 30
Winter Clearance - 40% OFF!
Brookside Apparel
40% Off Winter Merchandise
Valid Mar. 14 - Mar. 20
Valid Mar. 4 - Mar. 20
Shirt Sale at Whiteface!
Brookside Apparel
20% off all Shirts at Brookside Apparel and Flying Squirrel Apparel