Nauvoo to Quincy, Illinois
Lee County, Iowa to Clark County, Missouri
The following are sites in the northern region of the Middle Mississippi River Valley where you should have a good chance at spotting "baseballs" and are listed in approximate geographic order following the Mississippi River from north to south. Hot spots include Keokuk, Iowa and Quincy, Illinois. See the Northern Region area map for an overall view of eagle watching locations.
Nauvoo to Hamilton Drive
Hancock County, Illinois
The Great River Road travels along the banks of the Mississippi River along this section of the route giving travelers an excellent chance of spotting eagles as they ride ice floes down the river. This stretch has a number of riverside roadside parks where you can stop and get a longer, closer, and safer look.
Montrose Riverfront
Lee County, Iowa
Montrose sits right on the banks of the Mississippi River and its location just above Lock and Dam #19 makes it a prime spot for eagles to roost.
For more information on Montrose.
Keokuk
Lee County, Iowa
Keokuk is located on the banks of the Mississippi River and is the site of Lock and Dam #19. The dam helps prevent ice from forming on the river and the structures churns the water stunning fish making for easy meals for the hundreds of eagles that congregate here. Keokuk also hosts a popular Bald Eagle Appreciation Days event in mid January.
For more information on Keokuk, Hamilton, or Warsaw.
Battle of Athens State Historic Site
Clark County, Missouri
Take the short but scenic Mill Trail which runs past the abandoned 19th century town of Athens. Portions of the trail follow the Des Moines River and pass remains of a mid 19th century mill. During the months of colder months bald eagles may be viewed along the river section, where both mature and fledgling eagles feed.
For more information on Battle of Athens State Historic Site.
Canton Riverfront
Clark County, Missouri
The presence of Lock and Dam #20 and the Canton Ferry make the Canton riverfront an area worth checking out. Both the Lock and Dam and the ferry churn the water stunning the fish and making them easier prey for the eagles. A park is located along the river just to the south of Lock and Dam #20.
Quincy
Adams County, Illinois
Quincy is a quintessential river town with part of the town located on the bluffs and another along the river banks. The town has a number of locations for eagle watchers to look for our national symbol. A stop at the Villa Kathrine on the bluffs is a good first choice. Although there isn’t a dedicated overlook visitors can get a good look at the Mississippi. The Villa Kathrine is also the home of the Quincy’s Tourist Information Center and as long as you’re there you should check out this unique architectural building. There is an observation deck at the Microtel Motel in the downtown area that provides the best overhead view of the river in the area. There are two places where visitors can get down to river level. Lock and Dam #21 just south of town has an observation deck. The woods of Quinsippi Island, located north of the downtown area, provide a great place for the eagles to roost.
For more information on Quincy or the Villa Kathrine.
