The Skagit River and the surrounding watershed — or more specifically the salmon that thrive there — attract one of the largest populations of bald eagles in the lower 48 states. Each winter, the eagles arrive to feast on salmon.
A number of activities in December and January give you a chance to see the eagles and learn more about them.
Eagle watcher information stations
10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays through Jan. 31
Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest staff and volunteers will be at three stops along Highway 20 on weekends. They will have spotting scopes so you can get a good look at eagles. They’ll also be available to answer questions.
The stops are:
- Howard Miller Steelhead Park
- Milepost 100
- Marblemount Fish Hatchery
Skagit River Bald Eagle Interpretive Center
Howard Miller Steelhead Park, 52809 Rockport Park Road, Rockport
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Jan. 31; weekdays Dec. 28 to Jan. 1
The interpretive center lets you learn more about the eagles and the ecosystem where they live. Then you can enjoy a warm fire and refreshments. Beginning Dec. 19, speakers will cover a variety of natural history topics. Guided walks with a trained naturalist will be offered Saturdays and Sundays Dec. 20 through Jan. 31. All programs are free.
Rockport State Park guided hikes
51095 Highway 20, Rockport; Discover Pass required
10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays through Jan. 31
Hikes leave every hour on the hour and last 45 to 60 minutes. Trained naturalists will lead hikes to learn about old growth forests, eagle habitat and more. ADA accessible trails are available. You can also visit the park’s Discovery Center, which has interactive wildlife displays, books, a warm fire and refreshments.
Bald Eagle Festival
Events are planned every weekend in January in Concrete, Rockport and Marblemount. Events include live raptor presentations. Check the website for more details.
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