Where is Montrose and how do I get there?
Montrose is on the north side of Chicago along Lake Michigan. To get there, take Montrose Avenue (4400 North) east until you reach Montrose Harbor Drive. Turn right (east) at Montrose Harbor Drive and proceed about a 1/5 mile. You can park along either side of the road, but see below. The birding areas are to the east and northeast.
How's the parking?
The parking is generally good in the morning but deteriorates in the afternoon, especially on weekends, and especially in the summer. If you do drive, DON'T park directly under the lightposts as these are used by the resident pigeons and gulls for roosting, and you may find an unpleasant surprise on your car when you get back.
There are two handicapped parking lots accessible to Montrose Point and Dunes. One is on the southwest edge of the Point, the other is just east of the beach house.
Is it safe?
There is very little crime at Montrose though you should still be discreet and remember to lock your car and hide your valuables. Also, securely lock your bike if you're biking, but see below.
Is there someplace I can lock my bike?
There are bike racks by the beach house. Don't lock your bike to a tree or to one of the metal signposts as these aren't secure.
Is there anyplace to eat nearby?
There's a small concession stand on the southeast side of the harbor that's open during the summer. That's about it though. It's a good idea to bring water and snacks for what may prove to be an extended birding stay.
Are there restrooms nearby?
The restrooms most accessible to the birding areas are in the beach house and just to the west of the concession stand along Montrose Harbor Drive. Unfortunately these restrooms are only open during the official beach season, which runs from Memorial Day until Labor Day. There is a year-round bathroom located at Lakeshore Drive just north of the Montrose exit. This is about a half mile west of the birding areas.
Are there any poisonous plants or dangerous animals at Montrose?
There is Poison Ivy in scattered places so watch where you walk or put your hands. There are no venomous snakes or ticks at Montrose though in the summer the biting flies can be vicious. For this and other reasons wearing short pants is not recommended.
Are dogs allowed?
No, dogs are not allowed in Montrose Point or Montrose Beach Dunes. Dogs are only allowed in the fenced, designated dog area at the west end of Montrose Beach. The penalty for violators is stiff (a $300 ticket), so you would be wise to respect the dog ordinance.
Is there anything I shouldn't do or anyplace I shouldn't go at Montrose?
You shouldn't walk through the middle of the Magic Hedge on Montrose Point, especially when there are other birders around. Also, if you walk through the shrubs at the southeast corner of the Point you might see something you don't want to see. These shrubs are used by gay men for sex. Note: Parts of the southeast corner, as well as the Magic Hedge, have been roped off to discourage cruising and to protect the plantings; if you enter these roped off areas, even if you're just birding, you may be arrested!
You should take special care in birding Montrose Beach Dunes. The habitat has a very high-quality plant community with many delicate species that are easily crushed. In addition to migratory birds, there are several nesting bird species that use the vegetation. Please respect the native plants and birds by walking around and not through the vegetation. Also take care when approaching the shoreline, as you may flush resting and feeding birds.
There are no garbage cans in the Dunes or on the Point because they are natural areas. Please do not litter, and remember to carry your trash out with you. You may also wish to pick up any litter that you see, as good stewards of these two beautiful sites.
- Leslie Borns and Robert D. Hughes
