There is a public observation deck available for landbound visitors, which is opened on a seasonal basis. Boaters should consider obtaining resources, which include the Metro Area Rivers Guide. The Army Corps of Engineers provides navigation charts which may be obtained online either through download or by purchasing a hard copy. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources booklet, Boating on the Big River, provides lots of good information on staying safe, the process on locking through dams, and how to have fun on this national treasure. The area offers bald eagle and pelican viewing and other migratory waterfowl may be seen during migration in spring and fall. There is a peregrine nesting box on the big wall on the west side of the river that peregrines have used and these fast-moving birds are often seen hunting in the area. Neighboring banks below the dam are very good birding locations, especially during fall and spring migration.