Nestled amid the north woods of Wisconsin, Price County offers some of the most rewarding wildlife watching opportunities in the Midwest. From iconic bald eagles to elusive elk, this region delivers unforgettable encounters for anyone willing to slow down and look. Here’s your guide to what you might spot and where to look.
Bald Eagles Soaring Above the Rivers
Few sights are as awe‑inspiring as a bald eagle gliding above the water, look for nests high in cottonwoods or white pines during spring and early summer when nesting activity peaks. Paddling down either the North Fork or South Fork of the Flambeau River offers many nesting eagle sites…you might even catch nest‑guarding behavior or young eaglets begging for food by late May or June.
Loon Calls at Dawn
There’s something magical about the primeval song of a loon at dawn over a glassy lake. The Phillips Chain of Lakes, plus backcountry lakes like Round, Butternut, and Solberg host healthy loon populations. The best time to observe is early morning in early summer, especially May and June, when adults are nesting, and chicks first hit the water. Keep your distance with a kayak or paddle craft to avoid disrupting them, loons are sensitive to boat traffic.
White‑Tailed Deer in the Forest Edge
White‑tailed deer are everywhere here, from dense hardwood forests to quiet trailside meadows. Good spots to keep your eyes peeled include the Chequamegon‑Nicolet National Forest, especially near the edges of logging openings or along paved back roads like County F or C. Early morning or dusk gives you the best chance…watch quietly from a pull‑off with binoculars or just slow down while driving through forested corridors.
Black Bears for the Bold (but Respectful)
Yes, Price County has black bears, although you’re most likely to see them in summer and early fall when they’re feeding heavily on berries and nuts. Adventure morel mushroom patches, berry‑laden thickets or the southern edges of the Forest are hotspots. Always give them at least 100 yards…never feed or approach. Many seasoned wildlife watchers view them from a safe distance using a trail camera.
Maybe Even Elk!
In 2017 and 2019 Elk were released in The Flambeau River State Forest which borders both Price and Sawyer Counties plus the Clam Lake area just north of Price County is another elk hot spot if you are so lucky. Elk sightings are rare but growing. Your best bet? Scan open meadows and forest edges in northeastern Price County during dawn or dusk in late summer. Also Listen closely while hiking or paddling You might hear a bull bugling, which is a thrill you’ll never forget.