You can easily reach open viewing areas at Federal Dam at Leech Lake or Winnie Dam at the east end of Lake Winibigoshish. The Mississippi River winds along Highway 2 between Cass Lake and Deer River. Eagles are often seen soaring overhead. A prime viewing area is where the river meets the highway about eight miles west of the town of Deer River. In autumn, eagles are often seen perched on lake or river edges, searching for food.
Eagles remain near open water during winter months.
On the Chippewa, dams, channels between large lakes and faster moving rivers provide such habitat. The Cass Lake Wayside rest provides easy parking for those with an hour for exploring.