The big birds are back
The annual migration of eagles is upon Lake Coeur d’Alene and Higgens Point is a good place to watch the big birds of prey with their 2-inch-long talons diving to catch spawning kokanee salmon.
Beginning at the terminus of Coeur d’Alene Lake Drive, the trail goes uphill between Interstate 90 and the lake for about a quarter of a mile to a picnic area. From there, trails break to the east and west and follow the shorelines for short hikes. Another option is to take the trail just past the statue of the photographer, passing under the dead pine tree on which at least one eagle has apparently designated as a favorite perching spot this winter. This intersects the west trail and also leads to the beach and dock.
Lake Coeur d’Alene’s kokanee salmon begin to spawn and die in November, coinciding with the arrival of migrating bald eagles. Harsh Canadian winters encourage the eagles to migrate southward to spend the season in warmer environments, with our lake providing both food and relatively warm temperatures. The migrating eagles remain in the area until the kokanee supply dwindles, usually the third week of January, before departing to parts unknown for the remainder of the cold season.
Access: From I-90 and U.S. Highway 95, go east on I-90 to exit 15/Sherman Avenue, then continue straight onto Coeur d’Alene Lake Drive to the end of the road and Higgens Point.
Length: Approximately 1.5 miles.
Elevation: Mostly level, with an average of 2,187 feet.
Use: Moderate.
Trail condition: Excellent, well-maintained trails.
Difficulty: Easy.
Restrictions: No motorized vehicles. Please keep your distance from the eagles. Pets must be on a leash.
What to see: Eagles and views of Lake Coeur d’Alene and area mountains.
Special features: “Pay for view” spotting scope, exercise court, covered picnic area, outdoor grill, picnic tables, toilet facilities, docks, nearby boat launch, bike trail and benches.
Preparation: Contact the Coeur d’Alene Parkway state park, 2750 Kathleen Ave., Coeur d’Alene, telephone (208) 666-6711, for park information or visit the Web site, www.idahoparks.org/parks/ coeurdaleneparkway.
Eagle information: Call Scott Robinson, (208) 769-5000 and/or visit the BLM Web site, http://www.id.blm.gov/eagle _watch/index.htm
Gear: Hiking boots or walking shoes. Cameras with telephoto lenses and binoculars or spotting scopes add to the fun.