Big Hill Park

This 190-acre city park offers the bird watcher a large wooded area along the sandstone bluffs on the west side of the Rock River. The park has a nature trail loop that leads from the bluffs to the river and then follows a former railroad grade. There’s also a scenic overlook with spectacular vistas, and an environmental education center. During the spring, the Rock River serves as a migratory route for hawks, passerines and waterfowl of all types making a trip to this park worthwhile. The park offers guided hikes during the summer and also serves as a day camp for area youngsters.

Directions: From Beloit, travel north 1.5 miles on Afton Rd/Cty D to Big Hill Rd east to the park.

Gazetteer: Page 29, C-4 (prior to 10th edition). | Page 93, E-7 (10th edition).

Phone: 608/364-2929 (Beloit Parks & Leisure Services).

Web site: Big Hill Park

Signature Species: Barred Owl, Great Horned Owl, Kinglets, and Scarlet Tanagers.

Rare species: Orchard Oriole and Tufted Titmouse.

Parking: Parking lot.

Nearest food & lodging: Beloit.