Adventure Collective
Discover Sanctuary Admission at Vince Shute in Orr, MN - Duluth

Discover Sanctuary Admission at Vince Shute in Orr, MN

Orreasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels with minimal walking on mostly flat terrain.

Overview

Experience a personal wildlife encounter at Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can observe bears up close in Minnesota’s tranquil forests. Learn about conservation while enjoying a peaceful outdoor adventure.

Orr, Minnesota

Sanctuary Admission

All ages welcome • 3 Hours

Select Your Date & Time

About This Adventure

#Learn about and photograph the intimate world of the normally reclusive black bear!

##Hours

  • 5 - 8 pm (3 hours)
  • Tuesday - Saturday Closed Sundays & Mondays

##About Thousands of people visit the Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary every year to view and learn about black bears, their behavior, habitat needs and life cycles. Visitors also get the opportunity to view a special group of wild bears that come to this location every summer, from an elevated platform.

Nestled in the North Woods of Minnesota, the Sanctuary is located approximately two hours northwest of Duluth. The nearest town is Orr, which is about thirty minutes away. Encompassing some 500+ acres, the Sanctuary consists of a combination of habitats: aspen forests, cedar swamps, marshes, beaver ponds, a primary stream, open meadows and numerous other resources.

In addition to being a seasonal home to a large number of bears, this habitat is also used by an abundance of other wildlife including whitetail deer, bald eagles, beavers, mink, pine martens, fishers, timber wolves, red squirrels, bobcats, blue jays, owls, ducks, songbirds, ravens, and a variety of other species. While black bears are the primary focus, the various habitats of the Sanctuary are managed in a manner beneficial to the entire ecosystem.

The Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary also provides a most extraordinary setting for a variety of non-obtrusive scientific studies and educational programs relating to the diverse natural resources found within its boundaries.

Adventure Tips

Wear Earth-Toned Clothing

Dressing in muted, natural colors will help you blend into the environment and avoid disturbing the wildlife.

Bring Binoculars

Binoculars can enhance your viewing experience for animals that remain at a distance.

Follow Guide Instructions

Always listen carefully to your guide to maintain safety and minimize stress for the animals.

Pack Insect Repellent

Minnesota forests can have mosquitoes and ticks, especially in warmer months, so insect protection is recommended.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • American black bears
  • Red foxes

History

Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary has been dedicated to bear conservation and education since its founding in 1970, promoting coexistence between humans and wildlife.

Conservation

The Sanctuary focuses on non-intrusive wildlife observation and actively participates in habitat preservation to support healthy bear populations.

Select participants and date

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable Hiking Shoes

Essential

Provides support and traction for walking through forested trails.

Layered Clothing

Essential

Allows adjustment to changing temperatures during your visit.

spring specific

Insect Repellent

Essential

Protects against mosquitoes and ticks common in summer months.

summer specific

Binoculars

Enhances viewing of wildlife from a respectful distance.