The NWR extends for 25 miles along the Snake River from Minidoka Dam and includes all of Lake Walcott. The reservoir has several islands and marshy areas. The topography is primarily low, rolling hills with lava rock ledges up to 30 feet high along the shore. Highlights: Swainson’s Hawk, Long-billed Curlew, and Tundra and Trumpeter Swans. During spring and fall migration, Lake Walcott State Park is a “one stop shop” to see many of Idaho’s neotropical migrants.

Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge is located on the Snake River Plain in south-central Idaho, 12 miles northeast of Rupert. It includes 80 miles of shoreline around Lake Walcott, from Minidoka Dam upstream about 25 miles. The refuge headquarters is located in Lake Walcott State Park.

To reach the refuge office and Walcott State Park, take Route 24 northeast from Rupert, Idaho; there are some tricky turns in Rupert so watch the signs carefully. About 5.5 miles from Rupert, turn right on the Minidoka Dam road and follow it to the refuge.

From Interstate 86: Take exit 15, Raft River, and follow Old Highway 30 to 400 E, turn right and continue to 300 N, turn right and follow to Refuge Headquarters.