Annual Eagle Hike at McKinley Woods/Four Rivers

Note that this hike is on a WEDNESDAY morning and has a 10:15 start time, since the Visitors Center isn't open on Tuesdays and doesn't open until 10 am. As the rivers freeze over, bald eagles head to the open waters of Four Rivers. We'll check in at the Four Rivers Environmental Education Center to see if they have recommendations on where we might spot them (no guarantees!) and check out the exhibits. Then we'll hike on the easy, wooded 2-mile path with stops near the rivers to look for ourselves. No promises but bring binoculars just in case.

This hike takes place at McKinley Woods - Kerry Sheridan Grove in Channahon. Make sure you're going to Kerry Sheridan Grove, there are two different sections of McKinley Woods. We'll meet in the Visitors Center, so park in the LAST parking lot, down at the end.

Afterwards, stay and warm up and check out more of the Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, info here:
Four Rivers Environmental Education Center | Forest Preserve District of Will County

More info and driving directions are available here:
McKinley Woods | Forest Preserve District of Will County

For anyone who wants more info about the eagles, Four Rivers will host its annual Eagle Watch event on Saturday, Jan. 10 with multiple opportunities for guided hikes, live bird presentations, family activities and more. Info at:
Eagle Watch returns with raptors, hikes and hands-on fun | Forest Preserve District of Will County

Recommend yak-trax or other traction cleats, and/or trekking poles, if it seems the trails could be slippery and snowy.

This outing is likely to take place even if the weather isn't great, since we can mostly stay indoors and just venture out close to the Visitors Center. Even so, check back here (and I'll email responders) if it is especially inclement.