Just a short while ago, seeing a bald eagle was almost impossible. Thanks to a nationwide conservation effort, though, these rare birds are no longer endangered, and if you know where to look, you can watch them hunt and nest right here in the Hawkeye State! Spot hundreds of bald eagles in Iowa this winter, as they flock to a stretch of the Mississippi river near the town of Le Claire, at the river Lock and Dam 14.

Every year, birdwatchers and nature lovers across the Midwest plan trips to Iowa, where an estimated 2,500 bald eagles begin to nest along the Mississippi River.
Flickr / Brad Covington
These mighty birds put on quite a show! They first arrive in November, and stick around through the winter as they begin to hatch and raise their young.
Flickr / Jason Mrachina
Iowans gather to watch bald eagles fish, nest, and fly over the Mississippi River. Lock and Dam 14, in Le Claire, is one of the most popular spots to park and watch!
Flickr / Jason Mrachina
Lock and Dam 14 was originally built in the 1920s and 1930s, and opened its first section in 1938. Since then, it's been a popular spot for eagle-eyed photographers!
Flickr / Jason Mrachina
While you're sure to see plenty of hunting birds if you hang out here, keep your eyes on the skies and see if you can find nesting pairs while they rest!
Jerry McFarland/Flickr
You don't have to travel to the river to spot these giant, majestic birds. You may even see one flying around the countryside in Iowa's driftless area!
Flickr / Tim Lumley
Bundle up and head out to Lock and Dam 14 to watch brilliant and beautiful bald eagles swooping over the mighty Mississippi River during their annual Iowa bald eagle migration.
Flickr / Jason Mrachina

See what else makes Le Claire such a lovely destination when you read Le Claire Is A Small Town In Iowa That Offers Plenty Of Peace And Quiet.

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More to Explore

The Natural Wonders Of Iowa

William Suphan | December 06, 2022

What are the most beautiful natural wonders in Iowa?

The most beautiful natural wonders in Iowa include:

  • Upper Iowa River Bluffs. This river in the Driftless Area of Iowa is lined with gorgeous, steep bluffs and cliffs.
  • Crystal Lake Cave. This limestone cave is gorgeous and lit up in multiple colors that are fun to explore.
  • Ledges State Park. Located near Boone, this park contains sandstone cliffs and ancient glacial deposits.
  • Eagle Point Park. This area is one of the most picturesque in the state with stunning overlooks and lush trees.

Find out more about these and several more of the most beautiful natural wonders in Iowa. 

What are the best free natural wonders in Iowa?

The best free natural wonders in Iowa include:

  • Loess Hills. This area of rolling grassy hills is on the westernmost part of Iowa and covers over a thousand square miles.
  • Maquoketa Caves. There are 16 caves in this area nestled within lush forest trails and navigated with winding staircases.
  • Pike’s Peak State Park. There are 11 miles of hiking trails in this park, many of which have stunning overlooks.
  • Mississippi River. This historic river lines the eastern border of Iowa and there are all kinds of barges and historic ships on the river.

Learn more about these and a few more of the best free natural wonders in Iowa. 

What are the best bucket list natural wonders in Iowa?

These are the best bucket list natural wonders in Iowa:

  • Malanaphy Springs. This area contains some beautiful waterfalls that are about a mile from the trailhead.
  • Decorah’s Ice Cave. This intriguing cave has ice within it all year round.
  • Dunning’s Spring Falls. This is a lovely spot with cascading waterfalls and stunning views.
  • West Lake Okoboji. This is perhaps the prettiest part of the Iowa Great Lakes Region and is perfect for kayaking.

Discover more about these and more of the best bucket list natural wonders in Iowa. 

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