Save This For Later
We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later!
Winter is the best time to see bald eagles in Wisconsin. As the weather turns cold and rivers begin to freeze, these incredible birds gather around open water along the Fox, Wisconsin, and Mississippi Rivers. If your family is wondering where to see bald eagles in Wisconsin this winter, here are the top viewing spots, helpful tips, and everything you need to know before heading out.
When Is Eagle Watching Season in Wisconsin?
You can spot bald eagles year-round in some areas, but peak eagle watching season runs from December through March, when cold weather pushes the birds to congregate near open water for food.
Best times of day
- Early morning (8–11 a.m.)
- Sunrise and sunset
This is when eagles are most active — and when lighting is great for photos.
Best Places to See Bald Eagles in Wisconsin
Fox River (Neenah to Kaukauna) — Closest to Milwaukee
If you want an easy day trip from Milwaukee, this is your best bet. The Fox River is less than two hours away and has 16 designated eagle-watching spots, all mapped out by the 1000 Islands Environmental Center.
Why it’s great for families:
- Shorter drive
- Easy pull-offs
- Clear viewing maps
- Lots of eagle activity around the dams
If you only choose one destination this season, this is a solid pick.
Mississippi River: Prairie du Chien, La Crosse & Great River Road
The Mississippi River is one of the most famous eagle-watching regions in the Midwest.
Prairie du Chien
Stop by the Prairie du Chien Chamber of Commerce for the local eagle viewing map before you head out. There are several dependable spots along the river.
La Crosse Eagle Watch Wayside
Just south of Exit 3 on I-90, this wayside has:
- Parking
- Viewing scopes
- Wide river views
- Lots of eagle activity
A great stop if you’re doing a weekend getaway.
Great River Road
The locks and dams along the Great River Road create ideal feeding areas. Their downloadable birding maps help you pinpoint the best overlooks and parking areas.
Wisconsin River: Sauk Prairie, Petenwell Dam & Highway 60
This area draws thousands of bald eagles each winter.
Below Petenwell Dam
A well-known hotspot with consistent activity.
Sauk Prairie
Check out the Ferry Bluff Eagle Council’s self-guided tour for a mapped-out route with reliable viewing spots along the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway.
State Highway 60
Running along the north side of the river, this stretch has several pull-offs perfect for families. A popular spot is just east of Boscobel.
Why Bald Eagles Are Thriving in Wisconsin
It wasn’t always like this. Bald eagles were once rare in Wisconsin due to:
- DDT pesticide exposure
- Habitat degradation
- Water quality issues
After the DDT ban in 1972, stronger federal protections, and decades of river cleanup and habitat restoration, Wisconsin’s bald eagle population has rebounded dramatically.
Today, the state is home to one of the largest wintering bald eagle populations in the country — a true conservation success story.
You can even celebrate (and support) this comeback with the Wisconsin Bald Eagle license plate, which helps fund ongoing conservation.
How to Safely Watch Eagles (Without Disturbing Them)
A few small choices can make a huge difference for eagle health and safety.
Give Eagles Plenty of Space
- In your vehicle: Stay at least 100 yards away
- On foot: Stay 300 yards away
- Avoid getting too close to perches or nests
Use Binoculars or Spotting Scopes
You’ll get a better view without stressing the birds.
Keep Noise Low
Avoid slamming doors, shouting, or honking. Sudden sounds can scare eagles and force them to use unnecessary energy.
Responsible Photography
Long lenses help you keep a respectful distance. If an eagle changes behavior — stops feeding, stares at you, or shifts position — you’re too close.
Plan Ahead
Dress in warm layers and prep bathroom breaks early, since many visitor centers are closed in winter.
Get Involved: Bald Eagle Nest Watch Program
If your family wants to help protect these birds, the Wisconsin DNR’s Bald Eagle Nest Watch Program is a great option. Volunteers help spot new nests, monitor existing ones, and report activity to conservation teams.
It’s a simple way to make a real impact and get kids involved in hands-on wildlife stewardship.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eagle Watching in Wisconsin
January and February are peak months.
The Fox River (Neenah to Kaukauna) is the closest reliable region.
Yes — more than 1,600 active nests statewide and thousands of winter visitors.
Absolutely. It’s one of the best wintering areas in the Midwest.
Ready to Go Eagle Watching?
Eagle watching is such a memorable way to spend a winter day with your kids — a little fresh air, a bit of wonder, and a whole lot of “Did you see that?!”
Pack some snacks, grab a thermos of hot cocoa, and try one of these spots less than a couple of hours from Milwaukee. It’s a winter tradition your family may end up doing every year.
Related Posts
- 4 Stunning National Parks in Wisconsin
- 25 Magnificent Winter Birds in Wisconsin
- 10 Gorgeous Winter Hikes Around Milwaukee
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
