Conservation, Bald Eagles, and River Views at Nature at the Confluence in South Beloit, Illinois

 

Nature at the Confluence provides a much needed nature respite in South Beloit, Wisconsin while representing a remarkable and continually developing environmental restoration effort. I have had this preserve on my list for quite awhile. A recent sunny day offered the perfect excuse for exploring this wonderful preserve. Enjoy a little peek:

Lovely water views captivate in all seasons at Nature at the Confluence.

Nature at the Confluence Offers Nature Adventure After Nature Adventure in a 90-Acre Preserve

Positioned at the confluence of the Rock River, Turtle Creek, and Kelly Creek, Nature at the Confluence offers opportunities to explore a variety of ecosystems all within a 90-acre preserve. Despite being situated in a developed area, the preserve quickly envelopes hikers into nature. In fact, the Rock River Birding & Hiking Trail is across railroad tracks from the nature center. So, you will need to use caution to cross and may not be able to use the trail if there are railroad cars blocking it. However, once on the natural trails we became totally charmed by the nature of the preserve.

To enjoy one of the trails, we safely crossed railroad tracks
with train cars and engines safely parked in the distance.

The trails at Nature at the Confluence are very well marked. Sporadic signs note interesting information about the preserve. Trails highlight the prairie, woodlands, and river bottomlands. Our peaceful amble treated us to wildlife ready for spring to emerge! We definitely spotted plenty of birds enjoying temperatures warmer than typical for February.

Visiting the Bald Eagles of Nature at the Confluence

Bald eagles perch near a nest above the Rock River at
Nature at the Confluence in South Beloit, Illinois.

Visitors of Nature at the Confluence will be delighted to note an active bald eagle's nest! We saw the resident pair of bald eagles perched in the tree above the nest during our visit. The eagles have a wonderful location for their nest -- on an island with picturesque Rock River views. When you reach this point of the trail, you will just want to stay and savor the moment for awhile.

Truly amazing to see bald eagles in South Beloit, Illinois along the Rock River!

Learning about the Ho-Chunk

Sculpture by Ho-Chunk artist Truman Lowe honoring
Ke-chunk-nee-shun-nuk-ra or Turtle Village

The preserve rests on Ho-Chunk land where the Ho-Chunk lived at Ke-chunk-nee-shun-nuk-ra or Turtle Village before being forced by the US government to cede their land in 1832. Ho-Chunk artist Truman Lowe crafted a sculpture to honor the people that once lived along Turtle Creek.

The Rock River meanders past barren trees
on a sunny winter day at Nature at the Confluence.

The Nature at the Confluence Learning Center was not open during our visit. However, if you visit when it is open you can borrow one of a variety of adventure backpacks to add more to your visit. The center also hosts a variety of events, so be sure to check out the events calendar.

Now, I consider Nature at the Confluence one of my favorite hikes in Winnebago County! We found the preserve to be quite beautiful and peaceful during our visit. Additionally, we spotted a number of birds. We look forward to a return visit during a warmer season to spot more wildlife!