Where Eagle's Soar





 

Eagles Nest Panorama

A trip to Bancroft is not complete without a visit to the top of the eagles nest for a panoramic view of the York River Valley below.A popular location is a craggy lookout called Eagle's Nest, a short distance north of the town. This scenic cliff, with a height of over 60 m (200 ft), overlooks the York River valley, the town of Bancroft, and other densely forest-covered ridges that surround it. It was the location of one of Ontario's first ever heavy steel fire towers in the 1930s built by the former Dept. of Lands and Forests. 12 m (39 ft) icicles dangle from its largest and most massive cliff in the winter and conceals parts of it entirely. It is a popular spot for climbers to practise ice climbing in the winter. However, the road to the top is steep and generally impassable in the winter. \

 

    

 When researching the history of The Eagles Nest the most talked about appears to the story told by Mr. and Mrs. Gabel. In the summer of 1883 the Gables heard the screams of a child playing in the yard, who was according to the Gables, being carried away by a great Eagle. It is then said that the Gables attacked the Eagle and after releasing the child, the great Eagle flew away. Following this horrific episode it was decided that the Eagles would pose further problems and the eggs were later removed from the Eagles Nest. 12 year old William Gabel was lowered into the nest dangling from a rope, as the story goes, and was able to destroy the nest.

The Bancroft Field Naturalist Club built the Hawk Watch Platform in 2001. Several species of Hawks, Turkey Vultures and other birds may be seen soaring the thermals as they migrate south. The club has also developed hiking trails on the Eagles Nest with three benches located at different habitats along the trails.




During the winter months The Eagles Nest is a spectacular place to visit on snowshoes. We offer guided excursions from one to three hours in duration. Highlights of this "Real And Incredible Experience" include the Hawk Watch Platform, Frozen Black Spruce Bog crossing and visiting several different winter habitats. The Hike also visits a frozen lake, numerous Granite outcrops and stunning vistas. Our excursion Begin at Trips And Trails Adventure Outfitting where you can either provide your own snowshoes or choose from our extensive rental selection, the right snowshoes for you. Bring warm layered clothing a small day pack with snacks and drinks, camera and hiking poles if you have them. Departure time is 10am and we return by 1pm. Following this adventure is a roaring fire and hot chocolate in a North American style Tipi. For more information or to plan you adventure on The Eagles Nest contact http://www.tripsandtrails.ca/