Because the MAPS website was not designed to handle multi-day outings, there are some errors in this article:
The outing takes place over two days – December 1 and 2. There is a table near the end of this article that shows the correct dates, times, and locations.
Early December is typically the peak period for Sandhill Crane migration at Jasper–Pulaski, when tens of thousands of cranes gather in the fields and roosting areas around the property. The best viewing is at the Sandhill Crane Observation Area, especially around sunrise and sunset, when large flocks arrive and depart in dramatic, vocal waves — ideal for photography. Expect cold, windy conditions and heavy visitor traffic on peak days, so arrive early and dress warmly. Bring long lenses, and a tripod or monopod for the best viewing and shooting experience.
What to expect
Each fall thousands of Eastern-population Sandhill Cranes stop at Jasper-Pulaski; numbers typically build from mid-October and peak in late November into early December. The DNR conducts weekly counts during the peak period.
Daily peak gatherings frequently exceed 10–15,000 birds, and historically counts at Jasper-Pulaski have reached ~30,000 on peak days. We scheduled this outing to be near the local peak count this year, and we hope to see huge flocks and dramatic flight/dawn & dusk activity.
Best times to watch & why it’s spectacular
Cranes are most active around sunrise and sunset — they fly from surrounding fields to roost sites and return, producing long lines of calling birds and mass inflight movements (fantastic for photography). Plan to be on site at least 45–90 minutes before sunset (or arrive before sunrise) to catch the arrivals/departures.
Where to go / logistics
Use the Sandhill Crane Observation Area There is general and accessible parking on the west side and an overflow lot on the east side; an elevated observation tower gives excellent views. Check for any event/open-house activities on nearby dates (often late Nov). See map at https://www.in.gov/dnr/fish-and-wildlife/files/fw-jasper-pulaski.pdf
For those wanting to stay closer to the cranes overnight, the closest town with good choices for hotels is Valparaiso, IN. Here are two hotels I found in Valpo:
Use the Sandhill Crane Observation Area There is general and accessible parking on the west side and an overflow lot on the east side; an elevated observation tower gives excellent views. Check for any event/open-house activities on nearby dates (often late Nov). See map at https://www.in.gov/dnr/fish-and-wildlife/files/fw-jasper-pulaski.pdf
For those wanting to stay closer to the cranes overnight, the closest town with good choices for hotels is Valparaiso, IN. Here are two hotels I found in Valpo:
Some parts of the wildlife area are in the Eastern Time zone. All times listed are in central time.
The site can be busy on peak days. Expect the observation tower and parking to fill — carpool, arrive early, and be prepared for a short walk from overflow parking.
Arrive ~60–90 min before sunset (or meet at pre-dawn if you prefer sunrise); tower viewing, then short field walk if conditions allow. Bring warm drinks, snacks, binoculars, and tripods. Carpool recommended due to limited parking. Please indicate if you are willing to drive, and how many folks you can fit in your vehicle on the google registration form.
Please be sure to enter your cell phone number on the registration form. I will create a group text to share information and updates.
The Outing registration will ask for which times you plan to attend, and if you are willing to drive others, and if you need a ride
