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Klamath Basin – a Winter Wonderland

  The Klamath Basin of Northern California and South Central Oregon is home to over 350 species of birds throughout the year. It is world famous for spectacular flocks of waterfowl on the lakes, rivers and nearby Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuges and is home to the largest concentration of wintering bald eagles in the lower 48 states. In fact, every year hundreds of these majestic birds flock to the Klamath Basin where they find plenty of food and safe sites for roosting.



During the winter months a large number and diversity of other raptors, including golden eagle, Northern harrier, and red-tailed and rough-legged hawks also can be found. Waterfowl numbers on the Refuges increase dramatically in February with the arrival of the first northbound migrants.



The Oregon Institute of Technology plays host annually to the Klamath Basin Winter Wings Festival. Festival participants can enjoy these magnificent bald eagles on tours and learn more about them at workshops. This year's festival will be held February 16 – 19. The event opens Thursday evening in Downtown Klamath Falls, with its geo-thermally heated sidewalks. Arts, food, music, vendors, and store specials will give families and tourists the chance to enjoy downtown. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the Oregon Institute of Technology will offer workshops, tours, vendors, displays, and activities attractive to families at low or no cost.



In addition to the festival, the Klamath Basin is rich with things to do in winter. There are tours to: Crater Lake National Park, one of the natural wonders of the world, Klamath National Wildlife Refuges, and Lava Beds National Monument. The Klamath Basin has thousands of acres of public land and also boasts many natural attractions for visitors who enjoy wildlife and beautiful scenery. You can hike, cross-country ski, snowmobile, dog sled, horseback ride and enjoy other activities in the wilderness areas.



Klamath Basin is truly a winter wonderland.