Bull Prairie Reservoir return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 81 A-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77, A-7 geographic coordinates 44 58’ 27” N 119 39’ 44” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: This beautiful lake is on Yearling Springs which is part of the headwaters of Big Wall Creek which flows into the North Fork of The John Day River. This lake is surrounded by a mix of Douglas fir, ponderosa pine, western larch and some willows and aspen. To get to this location, take HWY 207 south out of Heppner through Ruggs and Hardman, past Anson-Wright Memorial Park and on across into Wheeler County. About 4.2 miles into Wheeler Co., you will come to an area of intersections. FSRD 2518 will go off to the right and Bull Prairie Reservoir Road will go off to the left. Take this road for 2.8 miles and you will come to the lake and its great campground. There are many birds here. Osprey, Pileated Woodpecker, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Hammonds Flycatcher, Spotted Sandpiper, Hairy Woodpecker, and Western Tanager are just a few. This lake hosts a nice population of Spotted Frogs and Western Toads. Vaux's Swifts and Tree Swallows fly about all day and Little Brown Myotis, Big Brown Bats and Silver Haired Bats at Night. This is a great base from which to go owling from mid-May through early June. Go back out the entrance road and on across HWY207 onto FSRD 2516 and listen for Flammulated Owls, Great Gray Owls and Common Poorwills (you have now entered Wheeler Co. and a great area to owl). Proceed until you reach FSRD 2100 follow it west stopping every half mile or so and listen for owls. Watch the roads at night so you do not run over Rubber Boas and frogs. This is wild country and there are cougars, bear and mosquitoes. Stay alert and enjoy the birding.
Dale return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 82 A-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 78, A-1 geographic coordinates 44 59’ 18” N 118 56’ 51” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Located 54 miles north of Mt. Vernon on 395, Dale used to be the hummingbird capital of Grant County, but many of the residents have disappeared as have their feeders. Rufous, Black-chinned, Calliope and Broad-tailed have frequented this small community.
Kimberly return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 81 A-6, A-7 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77, B-8,B-9 (geographic coordinates 44 45’ 33” N 119 38’ 38” W) and Monument (geographic coordinates 44 49’ 09” N 119 25’ 17” W)
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Kimberly is located on Hwy 19 about 18 miles north from the Jct of Hwys 26 and 19. COUNTY LISTERS BEWARE: Hwy 19 basically skirts the county line. Any side trips east from this road will likely place you in Wheeler County. Kimberly is the lowest point in Grant County at 1845’ elevation and is located at the confluence of the North Fork and main stem John Day Rivers. This can be an interesting loop including Mt Vernon, Dayville, Kimberly, Monument, Long Creek, Fox and back to Mt Vernon. Highway 402 travels along the North Fork John Day River to Monument, and then climbs out of the canyon east to Long Creek. Bald Eagles may be found year round.
Long Creek return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 81 B-8 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77, B-10 geographic coordinates 44 42’ 49” N 119 06’ 13” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Travel north out of Mt Vernon on Hwy 395 for about 29 miles. Between Fox Valley and Long Creek, Highway 395 climbs over Long Creek Mountain, the pass at 5102’ elevation. There is a seasonal rest area a couple of miles towards Long Creek from the pass that can be good for a variety of birds. The open grasslands around Long Creek can be good for hawks, sparrows and Gray Partridge. North of town are their sewage ponds, one of which is visible from the gate (Lat. 44°43’23’N, Long. 119°06’15” W).
Fox Valley return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 81 B-8 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77, C-10 geographic coordinates 44 36’ 30” N 119 11’ 32” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Travel north out of Mt Vernon on Hwy 395 for about 17 miles. Fox Valley is another mountain valley at 4400’ covered with ranches. Take county roads 25, 26, 27 and 28 from Highway 395 to explore the valley. Sandhill Cranes stage here during spring migration. There are some ponds that can abound with waterfowl. Look for rosy-finches during the winter.
Middle Fork John Day River return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 82 B-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 78, A-1,B-1,B-2,C-2, geographic coordinates 44 42’ 21” N 118 48’ 38” W At Galena
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Travel 13 miles north of Long Creek on Hwy 395 to the bridge over the Middle Fork of the John Day River. You can take this road (County Road 20 a.k.a. Middle Fork Rd.) east to Ritter or West along the river for about 60 miles through Galena and back to Hwy 26 via Hwy 7 near Austin. The lower end has parched/rocky south facing slopes and the upper end is mixed forest and lush meadows. Veery and Gray Catbird have been found along here, besides the usual warblers, wrens, American Dipper and mountain forest species.
Olive Lake return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 82 A-2 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 78 B-3 geographic coordinates 44 46’ 59” N 118 35’ 55” W
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Location, Habitat and Birds: This high mountain lake is just over 6000 feet in elevation. A mixed conifer forest surrounds the lake. There is no easy way to access this remote lake and summer is the only safe time to attempt a visit here. To find this location from John Day take Hwy 26 east for 28 miles to Hwy 7. Take Hwy 7 for about a mile and turn left on FR 20. Travel 18 miles to just before the town of Galena. Turn right on FR 45. Go 18 miles north on FR 45 to FR 10. Turn right on FR 10 and drive east for 6 miles. Turn right on FR 480 and go a short distance to the lake. Possible species at this location include Common Goldeneye, Barrow's Goldeneye, Hooded Merganser, Bufflehead, Ruffed Grouse, Dusky Grouse, Western Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Northern Goshawk, Spotted Sandpiper, Flammulated Owl, Northern Pygmy Owl, Barred Owl, Boreal Owl (possible but not confirmed), Saw-whet Owl, Vaux's Swift, Red-naped Sapsucker, Hairy Woodpecker, Black-backed Woodpecker, American Three-toed Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Hammond's Flycatcher, Gray Jay, Steller's Jay, Tree Swallow, Mt. Chickadee, Winter Wren, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Hermit Thrush, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Townsend's Warbler, Western Tanager, Chipping Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, Cassin's Finch, and Evening Grosbeak.
John Day Fossil Beds Nat. Monument Sheep Rock Unit return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 81 B-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg77, C-8 geographic coordinates 44 33’ 10” N 119 38’ 45” W
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JDFBNM Website
Location, Habitat, and Birds: At the north end of Picture Gorge, highways US 26 and State 19 intersect. This is on Hwy 26 east of Prineville about 78 miles and west of John Day about 38 miles. The visitor center and headquarters are a couple of miles north on Highway 19. Look for hawks and eagles in the air, bluebirds and sparrows on the fences and ducks and geese in the fields and river. At Goose Rock (Lat. 44°34’38.11”N, Long. 119°38’42.91” W), a mile or two north of the visitor center, White-throated Swifts nest. A couple of miles farther, take the short Blue Basin trail and listen for Canyon Wren. National Park Service Website http://www.nps.gov/joda/sheep-rock.htm
Dayville Area return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 81 C-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77, D-8 geographic coordinates 44 27’ 59” N 119 32’ 02” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Dayville is a small community at 2300’ elevation. It is located 85 miles east of Prineville and 30 miles west of John Day on Hwy 26. Take the South Fork Road to the south along the South Fork John Day River and look for warblers, Lewis’s Woodpeckers and Mountain Quail. The South Fork Road which can be driven to the Izee country, is quite scenic, is mostly gravel – some places a bit rough, and will take at least an hour to drive its full length. Also keep an eye out for bighorn sheep. Highway 26 west towards Picture Gorge and the John Day Fossil Beds passes through more ranches – check out the wet areas for shorebirds during migration. At Picture Gorge (C8) there is a pond and willows on the west side of the highway. Also check the fields east of the gorge for waterfowl during the spring and early summer.
Moon Creek return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 81 C-8 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77, D-10,D-9 geographic coordinates 44 25’ 92” N 119 13’ 30” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: This road (county road 45) intersects with Highway 26 just east of milepost 148 which is 9.5 miles west of Mt. Vernon and 17 miles east of Dayville. About 0.25 miles down this road is an Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife preserve with a pond (Lat. 44°25’92.77” Long. 119°13’30.77”). Check for waterfowl, woodpeckers and warblers. Osprey and Western Screech-owl also nest here. If you continue farther on Moon Creek Road there is a cemetery in about 2-3 miles with spruce trees that often catch something different (Lat. 44°25’44.30” Long. 119°14’51.00”).
Mt Vernon Area return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 81 C-8 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77, D10 geographic coordinates 44 25’ 03” N 119 06’ 48” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Mt. Vernon is 108 miles east of Prineville and 8 miles west of John Day on Hwy 26. Look for Wild Turkeys along the first three miles of Ingle Creek Road, especially during the winter. Highway 395 travels north up Beech Creek toward Fox Valley and Long Creek. About 10 miles north, county road 32 goes east up the East Fork Beech Creek. Mountain Quail have been seen in this area. County road 32 will connect with Forest Service roads that lead to Magone (pronounced ma-goon) Lake. Going west on Highway 26 from Mt. Vernon, look for Osprey nesting on poles in the fields. About 1.5 miles west of Mt. Vernon, look for Bobolinks in the fields during the spring. Happy Valley Road takes off to the north and gives some views of ponds and a variety of habitat.
Clyde Holliday State Park return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 81 C-8 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77, D-10 geographic coordinates 44 24’ 58” N 119 05’ 14” W
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Park Brochure and Map
Location, Habitat, and Birds: Holliday State Park sits along the John Day River between John Day and Mt Vernon (about 1 mile east of Mt. Vernon). Walk through the campground, especially during the winter where some feeding happens near the wood shed. There is a nature trail along the river through riparian habitat. In addition to waterfowl, warblers, kinglets, buntings and sparrows, keep an eye out for beaver. A pond east of the campground often has waterfowl and look for rails in the marshy east end. The cottonwoods between the campground and the open park are renowned for Least Flycatchers most years.
John Day/Canyon City return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 82 C-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 78, D-1 geographic coordinates 44 24’ 58” N 118 57’ 09” W
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City Information John Day
Location, Habitat, and Birds: John Day is 115 miles east of Prineville on Hwy 26. The distance from Portland is 264 miles via Hwy 26. John Day is the largest community in Grant County and Canyon City is the county seat. Average elevation is 3100’. Check both Canyon Creek and the John Day River for American Dippers, waterfowl, Western Screech-owls, warblers and vireos. Vaux’s Swifts nest in the chimney of the old hotel on SE Dayton Street (Lat. 44°24’55.92”N, Long. 118°57’04.58” W). There is a sports complex on NE 7th Street – check out the pond for waterfowl (Lat. 44°25’21.42”N, Long. 118°57’05.35” W). It’s small but productive. The primary road to the airport and adjacent industrial area is at 4th and South Canyon Blvd (Hwy. 395). At the top of the hill turn right to the industrial area for the possibility of Gray Partridge and Horned Larks. On the west end of John Day, turn north on Ferguson Road. Turn right in front of the federal building and into the Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife screen shop parking lot (Lat. 44°25’24.88”N, Long. 118°58’18.18” W). They have a fishing pond that often has waterfowl. A little farther west on Highway 26 is the closed Grant Western Lumber mill. If the gate is open, it may be possible to drive up the office (immediately to your left) and check out the pond it overlooks (Lat. 44°25’18.12”N, Long. 118°58’49.74” W).
Strawberry Mountain Wilderness return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 81 C-7, C-8, Pg 82 C-1, C-2 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 78, D-1,D-2,D-3,E-1,E-2,E-3 geographic coordinates 44 18’ 46” N 118 42’ 36” W
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Summit Post Website
Location, Habitat, and Birds: Strawberry Mountain rises over 9000’ in this wilderness, and the main east/west ridge averages about 8000’ in elevation. The 1640 road off of the 16 road (that terminates in Seneca) takes you to two trailheads: Road's End and High Lake. Look for Mountain Bluebirds, Rock Wren, Clark's Nutcracker, Mountain Chickadees, Pine Siskin, Red-tailed Hawk, Dark-eyed Juncos, Red Crossbills; and at Indian Springs Camp there was a Pileated Woodpecker and Hermit Thrushes. There are several trails that are reached from Canyon Creek Road and a few more along the eastern and southeastern edge.
There is no access from Dog Creek, but there is access to Canyon Mt from Canyon City. Canyon Mt trailhead, Pine Creek and Road's End take you to the highest elevations. Indian Creek trail starts in the woods, but a majority of it is in a burn that happened maybe 10 years ago.
Look for grouse and other high altitude species. Osprey and some waterfowl can be found on lakes that are reached by good trails. Rocky Mountain Goats can be found on the slopes, especially above Slide Lake and black bears can often be seen foraging in the fall.
Prairie City Area return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 82 C-2 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 78, D-2,D-3 geographic coordinates 44 27’ 44” N 118 42’ 40” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Prairie City lies 13 miles east of John Day on Hwy 26. Highway 26 between John Day and Prairie City is excellent for hawks and Bald Eagles during the winter. Check the gravel/sand pit north of the highway just west of Pine Creek Road for Bank Swallows (D2). Virginia Rails can often be found in a small marsh on the south side of the highway east of Indian Creek Road and the crossing over the river (Lat. 44°26’41.02”N, Long. 118°47’38.03” W). About 2 miles east of Prairie City, turn right onto North River Road. Check the fields for Bobolink, especially 3-4 miles from Highway 26 (Lat. 44°26’20”N, Long. 118°37’12.55” W). Wild Turkeys, sparrows and raptors are other finds.
Bear Valley, Starr CG, Lick Cr. Old Growth Area return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 81 D-8 Pg 82 D-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77, E-10 & Pg 78, E-1,F-1 geographic coordinates 44 10’ 38” N 119 02’ 10” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Bear Valley lies about 20 miles south of John Day at an average elevation of 4700’. This is a mountain valley surrounded by ponderosa pine forests. The central part of the valley is private ranches that are sagebrush range or have been converted into pastureland. Low areas or areas near the Silvies River are often flooded in the spring. The edges of the valley provide some good riparian/willow habitat. There are several aspen groves also along the edge of the valley. Winters are usually cold and snow-covered with little bird life visible, although Snow Buntings and redpolls are occasional visitors. The surrounding forests house the usual residents of chickadees, nuthatches (all three species), most woodpecker species, and several owl species including Great Gray and Flammulated. The open valley can host a multitude of waterfowl and shorebirds if there are abundant snows in the winter to create ponds and restricted runoff. Bear Valley’s biggest claim to fame is a small population of Upland Sandpipers.
At the northern end of Bear Valley, Highway 395 passes over Starr Ridge at an elevation of 5152’ (78-E1, Lat. 44°15’37.63”N, Long. 119°00’53.51” W). Starr Campground is at this location where Flammulated Owls can be heard. They are also found in the forest to the east of the pass. Dropping down the highway to the south the aspen and willow openings can provide warblers and woodpeckers. At the junction of Highway 395 and Izee-Paulina Lane is the Swick Creek Old Growth area (78-E1, Lat. 44°13’50.39”N, Long. 119°01’41.92” W), often good for White-headed Woodpeckers. If you continue up the gravel road past the picnic area about 1 mile and wander in the woods south of the road (Lat. 44°13’54.17”, Long. 119°01’23”), you may find Northern Goshawk or Great Gray Owl. Traveling west on Izee-Paulina Lane will take you through open pastureland that used to be Upland Sandpiper territory, but keep an eye for curlews, willets, waterfowl, bluebirds and hawks. At Geary Creek Rd (77-E10) you can go north to the 49 road, turn left and climb into the woods. Where road 218 intersects is the lower extent of Flammulated Owl habitat (Lat. 44°15’46.42”, Long. 119°04’42.45”). Continue up the 49 road to where it turns sharply left at the intersection with the 094 road (Lat. 44°17’02.54”, Long. 119°04’48.62”). The 094 road is primitive but passable and provides access to one of the best areas for these owls. Stay to the right until intersecting with the 4920 road which will take you to Starr Ridge if you turn left or back to the Izee-Paulina Lane if you turn right. About 5 miles from Highway 395 is Murderers Creek Road, Forest Service 21 (77-E10, Logdell). This is paved all the way to Highway 26 where it intersects at Fields Creek between Mt Vernon and Dayville (77-D9). Murderers Creek Guard Station (Lat. 44°15’40.58”N, Long. 119°16’31.71” W) has often been good for Red-eyed Vireo. Several miles farther out the Izee-Paulina Lane you will encounter the “Flagtail Burn” where woodpeckers abound, but keep an eye out for warblers, vireos and sparrows along the Silvies River. At the intersection with Forest Service road 24 you may turn left to connect with the Scotty Creek Road or right for more exploration in the woods (77-E10). Continuing west on the Izee –Paulina Lane will soon drop you out of the Ponderosa forest into the hilly juniper/sage Izee country (77-F9). Common Poorwills may be heard at night and check for waterfowl on ponds and the river, and hawks and eagles in the air. There is a road along the South Fork John Day River where it heads north from the Izee-Paulina Lane (77-F8) that intersects with Highway 26 in Dayville (77-D8). The South Fork Road is quite scenic, is mostly gravel – some places a bit rough, and will take at least an hour to drive its full length. (See Dayville area)
About halfway through Bear Valley is Scotty Creek Lane, County Road 64 (78-E1 Lat. 44°10’38.91”N, Long. 118°59’43.95” W). It heads west from Highway 395. Check the area for hawks, sparrows and pygmy rabbits. About a mile from Highway 395 you cross the Silvies River. The fields (Lat. 44°10’28.81”N, Long. 119°01’03.19” W), are usually very wet in spring and early summer – look for waterfowl, Virginia Rail, Sora, blackbirds. In about six miles there is a ‘Y’ with the county road to the right ending at a ranch and the forest service road to the left (77-E10 Lat. 44°09’20.80”N, Long. 119°03’53.52” W). This is the only location at present to possibly observe Upland Sandpipers. In another mile or two the road veers right. Stop at the beaver pond and willow patch (Lat. 44°08’54.04”N, Long. 119°07’53.61” W) for flycatchers, waterfowl, woodpeckers and nuthatches (check the snag just north at Lat. 44°08’57.41”N, Long. 119°07’59.29” W). Continuing on the 24 road, check out the aspen groves, especially where they are fenced-in on both sides of the road (Lat. 44°10’04.19”N, Long. 119°07’53.61” W). It is possible to find seven different woodpecker species. This road continues on to the Izee-Paulina Lane through the Flagtail Burn.
Seneca (78-F1) has a few facilities available (restrooms, store, tavern). Check the town for seed and hummingbird feeders. The fields just north are often flooded in spring and good for shorebirds and waterfowl. The power poles just north of Seneca host a couple of raptor nests. Check them for Red-tailed, Swainson’s or Ferruginous Hawks. Forest Service Road 16 goes east from Seneca toward Logan Valley, providing views of willow and pastureland habitat. Look for Green-tailed Towhee along the edges and Sandhill Cranes in the fields. Highway 395 between Seneca and Silvies Valley parallels the Silvies River. There are several good willow patches and turnouts along this stretch.
Logan Valley return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 82 D-2 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 78, E-2,E-3,F-2,F-3 geographic coordinates 44 10’ 40” N 118 38’ 50” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Logan Valley is located about 20 miles east of Seneca on NFD Road 16 at an elevation of over 5000’. Forest Service road 16 is paved from Seneca for its entire length, intersecting Highway 26 between Unity and Ironside (D5). The north side of this valley near Big Creek Campground used to have an Upland Sandpiper colony (E3). The open prairie is good for curlews, cranes and bluebirds. Check out the riparian areas, especially near the campground for flycatchers and warblers.
Silvies Valley return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 82 D-1, Pg 78 A-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 78, F-1 geographic coordinates 44 03’ 49” N 118 56’ 36” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Located 6 miles south of Seneca on 395, the northern half of Silvies Valley is in Grant County. Like Bear Valley, Silvies Valley is predominantly open rangeland in private ownership, surrounded by ponderosa pine forests. Average elevation is 4600’. Check out the fields and ponds for waterfowl, cranes and geese. At the north end there is a row of willows about ¼ mile south of the highway where Bobolinks may often be found.
Bull Prairie Reservoir return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 81 A-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77, A-7 geographic coordinates 44 58’ 27” N 119 39’ 44” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: This beautiful lake is on Yearling Springs which is part of the headwaters of Big Wall Creek which flows into the North Fork of The John Day River. This lake is surrounded by a mix of Douglas fir, ponderosa pine, western larch and some willows and aspen. To get to this location, take HWY 207 south out of Heppner through Ruggs and Hardman, past Anson-Wright Memorial Park and on across into Wheeler County. About 4.2 miles into Wheeler Co., you will come to an area of intersections. FSRD 2518 will go off to the right and Bull Prairie Reservoir Road will go off to the left. Take this road for 2.8 miles and you will come to the lake and its great campground. There are many birds here. Osprey, Pileated Woodpecker, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Hammonds Flycatcher, Spotted Sandpiper, Hairy Woodpecker, and Western Tanager are just a few. This lake hosts a nice population of Spotted Frogs and Western Toads. Vaux's Swifts and Tree Swallows fly about all day and Little Brown Myotis, Big Brown Bats and Silver Haired Bats at Night. This is a great base from which to go owling from mid-May through early June. Go back out the entrance road and on across HWY207 onto FSRD 2516 and listen for Flammulated Owls, Great Gray Owls and Common Poorwills (you have now entered Wheeler Co. and a great area to owl). Proceed until you reach FSRD 2100 follow it west stopping every half mile or so and listen for owls. Watch the roads at night so you do not run over Rubber Boas and frogs. This is wild country and there are cougars, bear and mosquitoes. Stay alert and enjoy the birding.
Dale return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 82 A-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 78, A-1 geographic coordinates 44 59’ 18” N 118 56’ 51” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Located 54 miles north of Mt. Vernon on 395, Dale used to be the hummingbird capital of Grant County, but many of the residents have disappeared as have their feeders. Rufous, Black-chinned, Calliope and Broad-tailed have frequented this small community.
Kimberly return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 81 A-6, A-7 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77, B-8,B-9 (geographic coordinates 44 45’ 33” N 119 38’ 38” W) and Monument (geographic coordinates 44 49’ 09” N 119 25’ 17” W)
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Kimberly is located on Hwy 19 about 18 miles north from the Jct of Hwys 26 and 19. COUNTY LISTERS BEWARE: Hwy 19 basically skirts the county line. Any side trips east from this road will likely place you in Wheeler County. Kimberly is the lowest point in Grant County at 1845’ elevation and is located at the confluence of the North Fork and main stem John Day Rivers. This can be an interesting loop including Mt Vernon, Dayville, Kimberly, Monument, Long Creek, Fox and back to Mt Vernon. Highway 402 travels along the North Fork John Day River to Monument, and then climbs out of the canyon east to Long Creek. Bald Eagles may be found year round.
Long Creek return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 81 B-8 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77, B-10 geographic coordinates 44 42’ 49” N 119 06’ 13” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Travel north out of Mt Vernon on Hwy 395 for about 29 miles. Between Fox Valley and Long Creek, Highway 395 climbs over Long Creek Mountain, the pass at 5102’ elevation. There is a seasonal rest area a couple of miles towards Long Creek from the pass that can be good for a variety of birds. The open grasslands around Long Creek can be good for hawks, sparrows and Gray Partridge. North of town are their sewage ponds, one of which is visible from the gate (Lat. 44°43’23’N, Long. 119°06’15” W).
Fox Valley return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 81 B-8 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77, C-10 geographic coordinates 44 36’ 30” N 119 11’ 32” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Travel north out of Mt Vernon on Hwy 395 for about 17 miles. Fox Valley is another mountain valley at 4400’ covered with ranches. Take county roads 25, 26, 27 and 28 from Highway 395 to explore the valley. Sandhill Cranes stage here during spring migration. There are some ponds that can abound with waterfowl. Look for rosy-finches during the winter.
Middle Fork John Day River return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 82 B-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 78, A-1,B-1,B-2,C-2, geographic coordinates 44 42’ 21” N 118 48’ 38” W At Galena
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Travel 13 miles north of Long Creek on Hwy 395 to the bridge over the Middle Fork of the John Day River. You can take this road (County Road 20 a.k.a. Middle Fork Rd.) east to Ritter or West along the river for about 60 miles through Galena and back to Hwy 26 via Hwy 7 near Austin. The lower end has parched/rocky south facing slopes and the upper end is mixed forest and lush meadows. Veery and Gray Catbird have been found along here, besides the usual warblers, wrens, American Dipper and mountain forest species.
Olive Lake return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 82 A-2 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 78 B-3 geographic coordinates 44 46’ 59” N 118 35’ 55” W
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Location, Habitat and Birds: This high mountain lake is just over 6000 feet in elevation. A mixed conifer forest surrounds the lake. There is no easy way to access this remote lake and summer is the only safe time to attempt a visit here. To find this location from John Day take Hwy 26 east for 28 miles to Hwy 7. Take Hwy 7 for about a mile and turn left on FR 20. Travel 18 miles to just before the town of Galena. Turn right on FR 45. Go 18 miles north on FR 45 to FR 10. Turn right on FR 10 and drive east for 6 miles. Turn right on FR 480 and go a short distance to the lake. Possible species at this location include Common Goldeneye, Barrow's Goldeneye, Hooded Merganser, Bufflehead, Ruffed Grouse, Dusky Grouse, Western Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Northern Goshawk, Spotted Sandpiper, Flammulated Owl, Northern Pygmy Owl, Barred Owl, Boreal Owl (possible but not confirmed), Saw-whet Owl, Vaux's Swift, Red-naped Sapsucker, Hairy Woodpecker, Black-backed Woodpecker, American Three-toed Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Hammond's Flycatcher, Gray Jay, Steller's Jay, Tree Swallow, Mt. Chickadee, Winter Wren, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Hermit Thrush, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Townsend's Warbler, Western Tanager, Chipping Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, Cassin's Finch, and Evening Grosbeak.
John Day Fossil Beds Nat. Monument Sheep Rock Unit return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 81 B-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg77, C-8 geographic coordinates 44 33’ 10” N 119 38’ 45” W
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JDFBNM Website
Location, Habitat, and Birds: At the north end of Picture Gorge, highways US 26 and State 19 intersect. This is on Hwy 26 east of Prineville about 78 miles and west of John Day about 38 miles. The visitor center and headquarters are a couple of miles north on Highway 19. Look for hawks and eagles in the air, bluebirds and sparrows on the fences and ducks and geese in the fields and river. At Goose Rock (Lat. 44°34’38.11”N, Long. 119°38’42.91” W), a mile or two north of the visitor center, White-throated Swifts nest. A couple of miles farther, take the short Blue Basin trail and listen for Canyon Wren. National Park Service Website http://www.nps.gov/joda/sheep-rock.htm
Dayville Area return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 81 C-6 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77, D-8 geographic coordinates 44 27’ 59” N 119 32’ 02” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Dayville is a small community at 2300’ elevation. It is located 85 miles east of Prineville and 30 miles west of John Day on Hwy 26. Take the South Fork Road to the south along the South Fork John Day River and look for warblers, Lewis’s Woodpeckers and Mountain Quail. The South Fork Road which can be driven to the Izee country, is quite scenic, is mostly gravel – some places a bit rough, and will take at least an hour to drive its full length. Also keep an eye out for bighorn sheep. Highway 26 west towards Picture Gorge and the John Day Fossil Beds passes through more ranches – check out the wet areas for shorebirds during migration. At Picture Gorge (C8) there is a pond and willows on the west side of the highway. Also check the fields east of the gorge for waterfowl during the spring and early summer.
Moon Creek return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 81 C-8 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77, D-10,D-9 geographic coordinates 44 25’ 92” N 119 13’ 30” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: This road (county road 45) intersects with Highway 26 just east of milepost 148 which is 9.5 miles west of Mt. Vernon and 17 miles east of Dayville. About 0.25 miles down this road is an Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife preserve with a pond (Lat. 44°25’92.77” Long. 119°13’30.77”). Check for waterfowl, woodpeckers and warblers. Osprey and Western Screech-owl also nest here. If you continue farther on Moon Creek Road there is a cemetery in about 2-3 miles with spruce trees that often catch something different (Lat. 44°25’44.30” Long. 119°14’51.00”).
Mt Vernon Area return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 81 C-8 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77, D10 geographic coordinates 44 25’ 03” N 119 06’ 48” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Mt. Vernon is 108 miles east of Prineville and 8 miles west of John Day on Hwy 26. Look for Wild Turkeys along the first three miles of Ingle Creek Road, especially during the winter. Highway 395 travels north up Beech Creek toward Fox Valley and Long Creek. About 10 miles north, county road 32 goes east up the East Fork Beech Creek. Mountain Quail have been seen in this area. County road 32 will connect with Forest Service roads that lead to Magone (pronounced ma-goon) Lake. Going west on Highway 26 from Mt. Vernon, look for Osprey nesting on poles in the fields. About 1.5 miles west of Mt. Vernon, look for Bobolinks in the fields during the spring. Happy Valley Road takes off to the north and gives some views of ponds and a variety of habitat.
Clyde Holliday State Park return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Page 81 C-8 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77, D-10 geographic coordinates 44 24’ 58” N 119 05’ 14” W
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Park Brochure and Map
Location, Habitat, and Birds: Holliday State Park sits along the John Day River between John Day and Mt Vernon (about 1 mile east of Mt. Vernon). Walk through the campground, especially during the winter where some feeding happens near the wood shed. There is a nature trail along the river through riparian habitat. In addition to waterfowl, warblers, kinglets, buntings and sparrows, keep an eye out for beaver. A pond east of the campground often has waterfowl and look for rails in the marshy east end. The cottonwoods between the campground and the open park are renowned for Least Flycatchers most years.
John Day/Canyon City return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 82 C-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 78, D-1 geographic coordinates 44 24’ 58” N 118 57’ 09” W
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City Information John Day
Location, Habitat, and Birds: John Day is 115 miles east of Prineville on Hwy 26. The distance from Portland is 264 miles via Hwy 26. John Day is the largest community in Grant County and Canyon City is the county seat. Average elevation is 3100’. Check both Canyon Creek and the John Day River for American Dippers, waterfowl, Western Screech-owls, warblers and vireos. Vaux’s Swifts nest in the chimney of the old hotel on SE Dayton Street (Lat. 44°24’55.92”N, Long. 118°57’04.58” W). There is a sports complex on NE 7th Street – check out the pond for waterfowl (Lat. 44°25’21.42”N, Long. 118°57’05.35” W). It’s small but productive. The primary road to the airport and adjacent industrial area is at 4th and South Canyon Blvd (Hwy. 395). At the top of the hill turn right to the industrial area for the possibility of Gray Partridge and Horned Larks. On the west end of John Day, turn north on Ferguson Road. Turn right in front of the federal building and into the Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife screen shop parking lot (Lat. 44°25’24.88”N, Long. 118°58’18.18” W). They have a fishing pond that often has waterfowl. A little farther west on Highway 26 is the closed Grant Western Lumber mill. If the gate is open, it may be possible to drive up the office (immediately to your left) and check out the pond it overlooks (Lat. 44°25’18.12”N, Long. 118°58’49.74” W).
Strawberry Mountain Wilderness return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 81 C-7, C-8, Pg 82 C-1, C-2 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 78, D-1,D-2,D-3,E-1,E-2,E-3 geographic coordinates 44 18’ 46” N 118 42’ 36” W
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Summit Post Website
Location, Habitat, and Birds: Strawberry Mountain rises over 9000’ in this wilderness, and the main east/west ridge averages about 8000’ in elevation. The 1640 road off of the 16 road (that terminates in Seneca) takes you to two trailheads: Road's End and High Lake. Look for Mountain Bluebirds, Rock Wren, Clark's Nutcracker, Mountain Chickadees, Pine Siskin, Red-tailed Hawk, Dark-eyed Juncos, Red Crossbills; and at Indian Springs Camp there was a Pileated Woodpecker and Hermit Thrushes. There are several trails that are reached from Canyon Creek Road and a few more along the eastern and southeastern edge.
There is no access from Dog Creek, but there is access to Canyon Mt from Canyon City. Canyon Mt trailhead, Pine Creek and Road's End take you to the highest elevations. Indian Creek trail starts in the woods, but a majority of it is in a burn that happened maybe 10 years ago.
Look for grouse and other high altitude species. Osprey and some waterfowl can be found on lakes that are reached by good trails. Rocky Mountain Goats can be found on the slopes, especially above Slide Lake and black bears can often be seen foraging in the fall.
Prairie City Area return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 82 C-2 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 78, D-2,D-3 geographic coordinates 44 27’ 44” N 118 42’ 40” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Prairie City lies 13 miles east of John Day on Hwy 26. Highway 26 between John Day and Prairie City is excellent for hawks and Bald Eagles during the winter. Check the gravel/sand pit north of the highway just west of Pine Creek Road for Bank Swallows (D2). Virginia Rails can often be found in a small marsh on the south side of the highway east of Indian Creek Road and the crossing over the river (Lat. 44°26’41.02”N, Long. 118°47’38.03” W). About 2 miles east of Prairie City, turn right onto North River Road. Check the fields for Bobolink, especially 3-4 miles from Highway 26 (Lat. 44°26’20”N, Long. 118°37’12.55” W). Wild Turkeys, sparrows and raptors are other finds.
Bear Valley, Starr CG, Lick Cr. Old Growth Area return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 81 D-8 Pg 82 D-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 77, E-10 & Pg 78, E-1,F-1 geographic coordinates 44 10’ 38” N 119 02’ 10” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Bear Valley lies about 20 miles south of John Day at an average elevation of 4700’. This is a mountain valley surrounded by ponderosa pine forests. The central part of the valley is private ranches that are sagebrush range or have been converted into pastureland. Low areas or areas near the Silvies River are often flooded in the spring. The edges of the valley provide some good riparian/willow habitat. There are several aspen groves also along the edge of the valley. Winters are usually cold and snow-covered with little bird life visible, although Snow Buntings and redpolls are occasional visitors. The surrounding forests house the usual residents of chickadees, nuthatches (all three species), most woodpecker species, and several owl species including Great Gray and Flammulated. The open valley can host a multitude of waterfowl and shorebirds if there are abundant snows in the winter to create ponds and restricted runoff. Bear Valley’s biggest claim to fame is a small population of Upland Sandpipers.
At the northern end of Bear Valley, Highway 395 passes over Starr Ridge at an elevation of 5152’ (78-E1, Lat. 44°15’37.63”N, Long. 119°00’53.51” W). Starr Campground is at this location where Flammulated Owls can be heard. They are also found in the forest to the east of the pass. Dropping down the highway to the south the aspen and willow openings can provide warblers and woodpeckers. At the junction of Highway 395 and Izee-Paulina Lane is the Swick Creek Old Growth area (78-E1, Lat. 44°13’50.39”N, Long. 119°01’41.92” W), often good for White-headed Woodpeckers. If you continue up the gravel road past the picnic area about 1 mile and wander in the woods south of the road (Lat. 44°13’54.17”, Long. 119°01’23”), you may find Northern Goshawk or Great Gray Owl. Traveling west on Izee-Paulina Lane will take you through open pastureland that used to be Upland Sandpiper territory, but keep an eye for curlews, willets, waterfowl, bluebirds and hawks. At Geary Creek Rd (77-E10) you can go north to the 49 road, turn left and climb into the woods. Where road 218 intersects is the lower extent of Flammulated Owl habitat (Lat. 44°15’46.42”, Long. 119°04’42.45”). Continue up the 49 road to where it turns sharply left at the intersection with the 094 road (Lat. 44°17’02.54”, Long. 119°04’48.62”). The 094 road is primitive but passable and provides access to one of the best areas for these owls. Stay to the right until intersecting with the 4920 road which will take you to Starr Ridge if you turn left or back to the Izee-Paulina Lane if you turn right. About 5 miles from Highway 395 is Murderers Creek Road, Forest Service 21 (77-E10, Logdell). This is paved all the way to Highway 26 where it intersects at Fields Creek between Mt Vernon and Dayville (77-D9). Murderers Creek Guard Station (Lat. 44°15’40.58”N, Long. 119°16’31.71” W) has often been good for Red-eyed Vireo. Several miles farther out the Izee-Paulina Lane you will encounter the “Flagtail Burn” where woodpeckers abound, but keep an eye out for warblers, vireos and sparrows along the Silvies River. At the intersection with Forest Service road 24 you may turn left to connect with the Scotty Creek Road or right for more exploration in the woods (77-E10). Continuing west on the Izee –Paulina Lane will soon drop you out of the Ponderosa forest into the hilly juniper/sage Izee country (77-F9). Common Poorwills may be heard at night and check for waterfowl on ponds and the river, and hawks and eagles in the air. There is a road along the South Fork John Day River where it heads north from the Izee-Paulina Lane (77-F8) that intersects with Highway 26 in Dayville (77-D8). The South Fork Road is quite scenic, is mostly gravel – some places a bit rough, and will take at least an hour to drive its full length. (See Dayville area)
About halfway through Bear Valley is Scotty Creek Lane, County Road 64 (78-E1 Lat. 44°10’38.91”N, Long. 118°59’43.95” W). It heads west from Highway 395. Check the area for hawks, sparrows and pygmy rabbits. About a mile from Highway 395 you cross the Silvies River. The fields (Lat. 44°10’28.81”N, Long. 119°01’03.19” W), are usually very wet in spring and early summer – look for waterfowl, Virginia Rail, Sora, blackbirds. In about six miles there is a ‘Y’ with the county road to the right ending at a ranch and the forest service road to the left (77-E10 Lat. 44°09’20.80”N, Long. 119°03’53.52” W). This is the only location at present to possibly observe Upland Sandpipers. In another mile or two the road veers right. Stop at the beaver pond and willow patch (Lat. 44°08’54.04”N, Long. 119°07’53.61” W) for flycatchers, waterfowl, woodpeckers and nuthatches (check the snag just north at Lat. 44°08’57.41”N, Long. 119°07’59.29” W). Continuing on the 24 road, check out the aspen groves, especially where they are fenced-in on both sides of the road (Lat. 44°10’04.19”N, Long. 119°07’53.61” W). It is possible to find seven different woodpecker species. This road continues on to the Izee-Paulina Lane through the Flagtail Burn.
Seneca (78-F1) has a few facilities available (restrooms, store, tavern). Check the town for seed and hummingbird feeders. The fields just north are often flooded in spring and good for shorebirds and waterfowl. The power poles just north of Seneca host a couple of raptor nests. Check them for Red-tailed, Swainson’s or Ferruginous Hawks. Forest Service Road 16 goes east from Seneca toward Logan Valley, providing views of willow and pastureland habitat. Look for Green-tailed Towhee along the edges and Sandhill Cranes in the fields. Highway 395 between Seneca and Silvies Valley parallels the Silvies River. There are several good willow patches and turnouts along this stretch.
Logan Valley return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 82 D-2 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 78, E-2,E-3,F-2,F-3 geographic coordinates 44 10’ 40” N 118 38’ 50” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Logan Valley is located about 20 miles east of Seneca on NFD Road 16 at an elevation of over 5000’. Forest Service road 16 is paved from Seneca for its entire length, intersecting Highway 26 between Unity and Ironside (D5). The north side of this valley near Big Creek Campground used to have an Upland Sandpiper colony (E3). The open prairie is good for curlews, cranes and bluebirds. Check out the riparian areas, especially near the campground for flycatchers and warblers.
Silvies Valley return to the top
DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 82 D-1, Pg 78 A-1 DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 78, F-1 geographic coordinates 44 03’ 49” N 118 56’ 36” W
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Location, Habitat, and Birds: Located 6 miles south of Seneca on 395, the northern half of Silvies Valley is in Grant County. Like Bear Valley, Silvies Valley is predominantly open rangeland in private ownership, surrounded by ponderosa pine forests. Average elevation is 4600’. Check out the fields and ponds for waterfowl, cranes and geese. At the north end there is a row of willows about ¼ mile south of the highway where Bobolinks may often be found.