02-14-2015, Lover's Leap, Eagle's Clif, Wildcat Canyon

Today's hike was the scheduled Guided Winter Hike.  Joe the regular hiking guide had another commitment.  I didn't mind going hiking, especially on this sunny day.  Ok, so it was a little on the cold side, about 11 degrees and with the wind chill about -9 or something like that.  We were all bundled up and most wore some sort of additional traction.  We had 11 HARDY hikers.  They were a wonderful group, and all with a great sense of humor, everyone stayed together rather well.

 

Wildcat Canyon from the bottom looking up

I gotta say, I was a little worried with the wind if we were going to see many eagles today.  I was very delighted when we go to Lover's Leap and saw our first eagle near Starved Rock in the Fishing Cove.  Center of the photo above.

Starved Rock from Lover's Leap

Eagle Watching on Eagles Cliff.  Yes, it was a little breezy here.  Many eagles

Eagles Cliff

My group graciously posing for a photo in the bitterly cold wind.... THANK YOU!!

Coming down the stairs by Eagle's Cliff there was an eagle in the trees along the river. 

Along the river trail on the way to Wildcat Canyon

Wildcat Canyon.  Ice climbers at the top

Looking up at the ice fall from the bottom

3 ice climbers from Peru, getting ready to go down.  I also took a video of the running water in the ice fall.

Coming down the last set of steps before we arrive at the Lodge

Once we arrive back at the Lodge, we see these hungry deer.

Great sunny day to be hiking.  Joe, you missed a great one! If you come out hiking in the winter please come prepared.  Dress warm and in layers.  Bring some traction things for your boots.  I recommend Yak-trax.  If you forget them or don't know where to purchase them, you can get them in our Gift Shop.  They have them for sale for $25.  Cheaper than breaking an arm, leg or hip.  

 I will leave you with this: Wherever you may hike or walk, just put one foot in front of the other.  It's all about the experience not the destination.