COS is excited to partner with the Chicago Park District to conduct a morning of hawk watching from the most unique vantage point in Chicago and host the first ever birding trip to the top of the climbing wall at Steelworkers Park! Join us as we ascend the ruins of the once mighty U.S. Steelworks plant and take advantage of a perch providing panoramic views of Chicago's South Shore to observe the spectacle of raptor migration.

Climbing not really your thing? No problem. Given the limited number of people allowed on the wall at any time, hawk watching will also be taking place on the surrounding lawn for the duration of the trip providing equal opportunities to search for and observe birds.

The platform accommodates a maximum of 5 people. In order to allow everyone a chance to experience the elevated perspective, participants are able to stay topside for as long as they are comfortable up to an hour. After an hour, participants can resume hawk watching on the ground and make room for the next round of participants.

Beginning birders and first time climbers welcome. Loaner binoculars will be available and all climbing/safety equipment is provided.

Leaders: Edward Warden

You must RSVP in advance! Pre-registration is required. Please contact Edward (edwarhzan@gmail.com) at least 24 hours in advance if you cannot attend or with questions.

Accessibility:
Total trip distance is approximately 0 miles. This trip is stationary and takes place either on the wooden platform atop the wall or on the surrounding lawn. Reaching the wooden platform atop the wall requires climbing up the 30 foot tall climbing wall. Climbing is not required to participate in hawk watching

Park staff will be on site to assist with orientation, safety, equipment setup, and ascending and descending the wall.

Portta pottis are available onsite.

Weather/Attire/Other:
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Dress for the weather and in layers. Based on the forecast, you may want to bring a hat and sunscreen and a light jacket. Please bring bottled water. Loaner binoculars will be available. If you have one, bringing your own lawn chair is highly recommended.

Location and Transportation:
Meet in the round about at the end of 87th Street which dead ends in the park. Free parking is available in the park lot. Public transit is not readily available.

Public Health:
Please bring a face mask with you. You may be asked to wear it as needed by the trip leader.