Where to See Jackie and Shadow in Big Bear Lake

Seeing a bald eagle in the wild is one of the most memorable wildlife experiences in Big Bear Lake. Each year, visitors come hoping to catch a glimpse of Jackie and Shadow — the famous bald eagle pair, from the live Big Bear Eagle Cam, that nest near the lake.



While the exact location of their nest is protected, bald eagles are regularly seen around Big Bear Lake, especially along the north shore where the birds hunt for fish and perch in tall pine trees overlooking the water. With a little patience — and the right viewing spot — it’s possible to see one soaring over the lake or gliding low across the shoreline.

Below are some of the best places around Big Bear Lake where visitors often spot bald eagles.

Why the Eagle Nest Location Is Protected

Jackie and Shadow’s nest sits high in a Jeffrey pine on the north side of Big Bear Lake. Many longtime locals and birdwatchers have a general idea of where it is, but the exact location isn’t publicly shared — and that’s intentional.

Bald eagles are especially sensitive during nesting season. Too much activity nearby can cause stress or even lead them to abandon a nest. To help protect the birds, the U.S. Forest Service closes the area around the nest during nesting season, typically from December through July.



These protections give the eagles the quiet space they need to raise their chicks successfully.

Best Places to See Bald Eagles in Big Bear Lake

Even though the nesting area is protected, there are several places around Big Bear Lake where bald eagles are often spotted flying or hunting. Many of the best eagle viewing spots are located along the north shore of Big Bear Lake, especially near Grout Bay, Stanfield Marsh, and the Alpine Pedal Path.



Dana Point Park (North Shore)

Dana Point Park on the north shore is one of the most popular eagle-watching spots in Big Bear. From here you can look west across Grout Bay toward the forested shoreline where the eagles often fly.

Bring binoculars if you have them — sometimes you’ll see an eagle perched high in the trees or circling above the lake.

Along the North Shoreline

Many eagle sightings simply happen along the shoreline of Big Bear Lake, especially on the north side where tall pines overlook the water. Eagles hunt fish from the lake, so they often fly low over the water or perch nearby while scanning for movement.

Even if you’re not specifically looking for them, you might suddenly notice a large bird with a bright white head soaring high above the lake — one of Big Bear’s resident bald eagles.

Stanfield Marsh Boardwalk

The Stanfield Marsh is another great place to keep an eye on the sky. The open marshland makes it easier to spot birds flying overhead, and the surrounding trees give eagles plenty of places to perch.

During the winter months, the snow-covered marsh and mountains make it a beautiful place for wildlife photography as well.

Alpine Pedal Path

The Alpine Pedal Path runs along the north side of the lake between the Discovery Center and the Solar Observatory. The trail offers wide views of the water, making it a good place to watch for eagles flying low while hunting for fish.

The eastern end of the path tends to offer the best visibility across the lake.

Best Time of Year to See Eagles in Big Bear

Bald eagles live in the Big Bear Valley year-round, but winter and early spring are usually the best times to see them.

During nesting season — generally December through July — Jackie and Shadow spend much of their time near the lake hunting and protecting their territory. That’s when sightings are most common.



Winter can also bring migrating bald eagles through the area, which sometimes increases the number of birds seen around the lake.

Best Time of Day to See Bald Eagles

Bald eagles are most active during the early morning and late afternoon when they are hunting for fish. Calm mornings often provide the best viewing conditions because the lake is quieter and eagles are more likely to be flying over the water.

Tips for Spotting Bald Eagles

Seeing a bald eagle in the wild takes a little patience, but a few simple things can improve your chances.

Bring binoculars if you have them. Eagles are often perched high in the trees or soaring far above the lake, and they can be hard to spot with the naked eye. Even a small pair of binoculars makes a big difference.

Try watching during the early morning or later in the afternoon. These are the times when eagles are usually most active, especially when they’re hunting for fish over the lake.



Give the birds plenty of space. The nesting area is protected, and approaching too closely can disturb the eagles — especially during nesting season.

Finally, respect any trail or shoreline closures you see. These areas are closed specifically to protect the eagles while they raise their chicks.

A Special Wildlife Experience in Big Bear

Seeing a bald eagle in the wild is something most people never forget. Whether it’s Jackie or Shadow soaring above the lake or another eagle passing through the valley, it’s a reminder of how special Big Bear’s natural environment really is.



By watching respectfully and keeping our distance, visitors help ensure these incredible birds continue to return to Big Bear Lake year after year.

FAQs About Seeing Bald Eagles in Big Bear