Lake Cachuma Cruises

We had an exceptional Eagle Cruise recently at Cachuma Lake,” said assistant park naturalist Rosey Bishop in a press release. “We saw a pair of adult bald eagles, and there were three juveniles in the branches around them.” Winter is when raptors and other migratory birds head to the lake’s shores. “[It] is a fantastic time of year to see white pelicans, peregrine falcons, northern harriers, and common loons, as well as an assortment of ducks and geese,” said Bishop. “Due to the low lake level, big exposed shoreline areas can often be seen with groups of mule deer browsing, and there is even a chance of seeing coyote, bobcats, foxes, and mountain lions.” The two-hour tour takes place aboard the Osprey, a 30-passenger pontoon boat with padded swivel seats and a canopy. Cruises are Friday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-noon, and Friday-Saturday, 2-4 p.m, through February. For reservations, call 568-2460 (Mon.-Fri.) and 686-5055 (Sat.-Sun.). Fees: $15 (adults), $7 (ages 4-12; no kids younger than 4). Park entry is $10 per vehicle.