Wetlands Canoe Tour of Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge

Situated on Lake Champlain, the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge is nationally recognized for its biological diversity and high quality wetlands. Established in 1943 to provide habitat for migratory birds, it consists of nearly 7,000 acres of refuge for avian creatures and other wildlife.

In partnership with other publicly owned State of Vermont lands, the Refuge has been designated a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar convention. A mosaic of wetland habitats provide opportunities to see more than 200 species of birds. Nesting bald eagles, osprey and a great blue heron colony with more than 300 nests are present on the Refuge.

Note that public use is permitted only on designated trails or along the Missisquoi River. Please contact the Refuge office (802-868-4781 or missisquoi@ fws.gov) for areas which are closed to the public in order to protect sensitive wildlife or habitat or a view a map here. If you’re interested in taking a paddle in the area, check out the Missisquoi River Delta Loop Trip featured in our <link explore lake-champlain-paddlers-trail guidebook _blank>2018 Paddlers’ Trail Guidebook. If you’re not able to get to the Refuge this season, you can take a virtual tour with Refuge Director Ken Sturm and Vermont Public Radio through this link or download the Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge Brochure to entice you on a future outing.