One of the benefits of the recent cold snap is the arrival of bald eagles in St Charles County. These magnificent birds, symbols of America, migrate to their winter airies to feed and raise their young when the waters in their traditional hunting grounds to the north freeze over. As a result, several nesting pairs and maturing youngsters can now be spotted in and around County parks, including Hideaway Harbor Park (along the Mississippi River near Portage des Sioux) and Klondike Park (along the bluffs of the Missouri River near Augusta).

To celebrate the return of bald eagles to our area, the St. Charles County Parks Department invites guests to view these creatures during open park hour throughout the week.  In addition to these opportunities, the Department will host an organized Eagle Viewing Event and Guided Hike at 9 a.m., on February 13, at Hideaway Harbor Park. The third annual Eagle Viewing Passport Walk will focus upon the return of the bald eagles to their Mississippi River aeries along the Alton Basin.  The Parks Department encourages advanced registration for this free event to help with staffing and planning, and guests may register by visiting www.stccparks.org  or calling 636-949-7535.

The Department will provide a spotting scope and binoculars during this program, but guests are encouraged to bring their own materials for maximum viewing.  Along with the scopes, fire rings and hot cocoa will be offered to combat the winter chill.  As temperatures and wind-chill factors along the river are often colder than in urban areas, guests are reminded to dress appropriately for the weather when attending this program. To get to Hideaway Harbor Park from St. Charles, take Highway 94 North from Highway 370 until reaching Grafton Ferry Road. Turn left on Grafton Ferry Road and turn right on Portage Road until you reach Sioux Drive.  Turn left on Sioux Drive into the park.