Discover the Ruffed Grouse at Bearing North Lodge

For nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and hunters alike, fall in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a time of vibrant transformation, crisp air, and abundant wildlife. Nestled along the Whitefish River, Bearing North Lodge offers 73 acres of prime grouse habitat, making it the ideal destination for those looking to experience the fascinating world of the ruffed grouse.

The Life of the Ruffed Grouse

The ruffed grouse is one of the most iconic game birds of North America, particularly well-suited to the forests of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Known for its distinctive drumming sound, which males produce by rapidly beating their wings, the ruffed grouse is a master of camouflage and thrives in the dense cover provided by young forests and underbrush.

Photo by Courtney Celley/USFWS

Habitat and Behavior

Ruffed grouse prefer a mix of young deciduous forests, particularly stands of aspen, which provide ideal cover and food sources. These birds rely on young, regenerating woodlands for shelter and sustenance, feeding on a variety of buds, leaves, berries, and insects. In the fall, grouse are especially drawn to areas with a mix of dense cover and open spaces, which provide safety from predators while allowing access to food.

Ruffed Grouse hen defending her chicks. - photo by Lindsay Stedman/USFWS

The Upper Peninsula's diverse landscape—with its hardwood forests, dense conifers, and riverine environments—creates the perfect habitat for these birds. As you explore the woods around Bearing North Lodge, you may catch sight of a grouse as it flushes from the brush, or hear the drumming of a male echoing through the trees.

Explore Grouse Habitat on 73 Acres of Natural Beauty

At Bearing North Lodge, you don’t need to venture far to immerse yourself in prime grouse territory. The lodge itself sits on 73 acres of mixed terrain, featuring dense young forests, riverbanks, and open clearings—ideal habitat for ruffed grouse.

Take a leisurely walk along the Whitefish River, where you might surprise a grouse feeding near the edge of a clearing or hear the distinctive drumming that signals the presence of a territorial male. The mix of thick forest cover and open spaces provides ideal conditions for the ruffed grouse to thrive.

A female Ruffed Grouse

Whether you are interested in wildlife photography or simply observing these fascinating birds in their natural habitat, Bearing North Lodge provides an authentic and immersive nature experience.

Birdwatching Opportunities

The Upper Peninsula is renowned for its rich birdlife, and the ruffed grouse is one of the stars of the show during the fall season. Alongside other upland birds like the woodcock and a variety of migratory waterfowl, grouse are abundant around the lodge and in the nearby public lands. The Hiawatha National Forest, Escanaba River State Forest, and Gwinn State Forest are all within easy reach of the lodge, offering ample opportunities for observing grouse and other wildlife.

Bring your binoculars and explore the area’s diverse habitats, from riverbanks to dense aspen stands, where you can spot ruffed grouse feeding or moving quietly through the underbrush. The fall colors provide a stunning backdrop as you observe these birds in their natural environment.

Hunting Adventures at Bearing North Lodge

For those interested in hunting, Bearing North Lodge is perfectly positioned to offer an exceptional grouse hunting experience. The lodge's 73 acres along the Whitefish River provide a mix of thick cover and open spaces—ideal conditions for pursuing ruffed grouse.

Ruffed grouse hunting requires patience, a keen eye, and often a well-trained bird dog. The dense cover that makes the U.P. ideal for grouse also makes for challenging yet rewarding hunting. Grouse hunters at Bearing North Lodge can explore both the private hunting grounds at the lodge and nearby public lands, including the Hiawatha National Forest, Escanaba River State Forest, and Gwinn State Forest, all of which are renowned for their excellent grouse habitat.

After a day in the field, return to the lodge to relax by the fire, share stories of the day's adventures, and enjoy a hearty meal. The combination of great hunting grounds, cozy accommodations, and the charm of the Northwoods makes for a grouse hunting trip you’ll never forget.

Plan Your Stay at Bearing North Lodge

Whether you’re passionate about ruffed grouse, birdwatching, or hunting, Bearing North Lodge provides the ideal setting for a complete outdoors experience. The lodge’s history, charm, and location in the heart of the Upper Peninsula make it the perfect place to create unforgettable memories surrounded by nature.

Ready to explore the wonders of Michigan's Upper Peninsula? Book your stay at Bearing North Lodge today and immerse yourself in the Northwoods adventure of a lifetime!