BLM Offers Guided Bald Eagle Hikes

The Bureau of Land Management will host free guided hikes to look for wintering bald eagles in the Cache Creek Natural Area in Lake County on Saturdays, Jan. 12, 19 and 26 and Feb. 2, 9, 16 and 23.

Those interested in participating should reserve space for a specific date by calling the BLM Ukiah Field Office, (707) 468-4000.  Early reservations are requested for the popular hikes, which are limited to 25 participants each and fill quickly.

Participants will meet at the Redbud Trailhead parking area, eight miles east of Clearlake Oaks on Highway 20 at 10 a.m.  The trailhead is just west of the North Fork Cache Creek Bridge (38° 59' 13.20" N, 122° 32' 22.50" W).

The four-mile hikes last three to four hours.  The trail includes a steep 600-foot climb in the first mile, so hikers should be in good physical condition. Hikers should wear sturdy hiking boots suitable for wet conditions and dress for cold weather.  They should carry water, a lunch and binoculars, as most eagle sightings are from a distance.

Hikes will be cancelled in rainy weather.

Hikers will enjoy scenic vistas of the Cache Creek Canyon, where eagles often soar over the creek or perch in streamside trees.  Participants often spot other wildlife including tule elk, golden eagles, osprey, herons, red-tailed hawks and egrets.

Additional information is available from the Ukiah Field Office at (707) 468-4000.

Central California District   5152 Hillsdale Circle, El Dorado Hills, CA 95762