Birding Locations

Crooked River National Grasslands  return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 D-8    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37 F-10    Geographic Coordinates 44 27’ 04” N   121 05’ 53” W

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Location: This area lies south of madras and between Hwy 97 and Hwy 26.  There are many access roads that become quite rough close to Gray Butte; 1) North of Redmond on Hwy 97 turn off to east on Norris Ln, 2) South of Madras on Hwy 26 (just south of Rim Rock Springs) turn west on Ramms Rd, 3) to access Gray Butte and Squaw Hollow take Lone Pine Rd in the southern region and follow signs to the northwest to Squaw Hollow. 
 
Habitat and Birds: The flat “grasslands” is mostly Juniper forest and sagebrush lands.  On the slopes of Gray Butte there are some interesting springs where Lazuli Buntings can be found and migrant songbirds.  The flat areas have breeding Lark, Sage, Vesper and Brewers Sparrows.  Sage Thrashers are common and you can see Prairie Falcons, Golden Eagles, Gray Flycatchers and Loggerhead Shrikes in the summer.  In the winter look for Northern Shrike and winter raptors.
 
Best Times to Visit: Spring and summer.  (This area is in the Utopia Christmas Bird Count Circle)
 
Amenities:  Birding! Horse & car camping.  Campground has a restroom.
 
This spot deserves more attention from birders.  A nice loop is to start at Peter Ogden Wayside, continue through Hawk Alley, stop at Haystack Reservoir, continue to Cyrus Springs and end your day of birding with Rimrock Springs Wildlife Management Area.
 

Peter Ogden Wayside  return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 51 A-7    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 43 B-9  Geographic Coordinates 44 23’ 28” N   121 11’ 15” W

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Best Times to Visit: Spring, summer and fall.
 
Habitat:  Gorge with Shear Cliffs
 
General Birds in Area: Cliff and Canyon birds  (This area is in the Utopia Christmas Bird Count Circle)
 
Key Species
White-throated Swift
Violet-green Swallow
Canyon Wren
 
Directions:  From Bend, drive north on Hwy 97.  It is near the Deschutes County and Jefferson County line.  Turn left at sign before you come to the new suspension bridge over the Crooked River.  This is a nice spot to stop and stretch your legs and peer over the side into the canyon.
 
Amenities:  Birding! Looking into the canyon - quite scenic and the wayside has nice, big, restrooms.
 
Gray Butte & Skull Hollow  return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 51 A-8    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 43 A-10    Geographic Coordinates 44 29’ 35” N   121 09’ 33” W

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Location: On Hwy 97, go south of Madras about 9 miles past the turnoff to Culver. Look for Jericho Lane. Take Jericho to the east and travel about a mile. Follow the signs to Haystack Reservoir on Haystack Dr. which is south of Jericho Lane.  .  It is approximately 35 miles from Bend to Haystack Reservoir.
From Haystack, continue east on SW King Lane.  At 1.6 miles past the east entrance to Haystack Reservoir, the road forks.  Take the left fork which becomes Laurel Lane.  Travel 2.2 miles on Laurel and you will come to a set of corrals.  Turn into the road that goes past the corrals.  This is the road to Gray Butte.  The sage areas are full of sparrows.  At .5 miles up this road, you can take a side trip to the west that will loop you back to Haystack.  This road has several old homesteads on it.  There are no buildings left but the orchards and ornamental trees are still there and make for good birding (gnatcatchers used to nest here but are rarely found now).   Continue up Gray Butte traveling south.  The road peaks and begins to weave down-slope.  At 1.2 miles from Laurel, the road forks again.  Take the right fork (the left will take you through good country and back to Hwy 26).  This area is called Skull Hollow and has more Junipers.  Several water troughs have been set up along the way and these are popular with the local birds.  The road comes out of Skull Hollow and reaches pavement.  Turn left to return to Hwy 26 or right to go the O'Neil Valley in Crook County.

Habitat and Birds:  Riparian springs, sage, and surrounding Juniper forest.  Check the riparian areas for Lazuli Buntings.  Near the top of the Gray Butte Road, there is an Orchard.  This area has had Mountain Quail and Lewis's Woodpecker.   Watch for Rattlesnakes as they do frequent this area.

Haystack Reservoir  return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 D-8    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37 F-10    Geographic Coordinates 44 29’ 35” N   121 09’ 33” W

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Location: On Hwy 97, go south of Madras about 9 miles past the turnoff to Culver. Look for Jericho Lane. Take Jericho to the east and travel about a mile. Follow the signs to Haystack Reservoir on Haystack Dr. which is south of Jericho Lane.  .  It is approximately 35 miles from Bend to Haystack Reservoir.
 
Habitat and Birds:  Open water, willows and surrounding Juniper forest.  This is a local hotspot for shorebirds, ducks and grebes.  There are two good migrant songbird areas: to the south end of the western car park, and at the south end of the reservoir.  Bald Eagles are general present year round and the surrounding agricultural fields are good for winter raptors.
 
Amenities:  There is a nice campsite on the other side of the reservoir.  Birding, car camping, hiking, photography and boating.  Campsites with restrooms.
 
Best Times to Visit: Fall and winter.
 

Rim Rock Springs WMA  return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 51 A-8    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 C-1     Geographic Coordinates 44 29’ 39” N   121 02’ 21” W

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Location: Rimrock Springs Wildlife Management area is located on Hwy 26 between Madras and Prineville. From Madras, travel south on Hwy 97 to the Jct of Hwy 26. Take 26 SE (follow the signs to Prineville). About 10 miles down this road is a wayside with bathrooms and a hiking trail to access the wildlife area. I would recommend traveling a mile further toward Prineville and looking for a dirt road called Ramms Rd. (this is sometimes labeled as Grizzly Rd on some maps). Take this road for ¾ of a mile and turn left on NFD Rd. 1270. This will take you to a parking area and better access to the wildlife area.
 
Habitat and Birds:  A series of reed fringed pools surrounded by juniper forest and sagebrush.  This is a good area for Ducks, Rails and Northern Harriers.  The open Juniper forest is home to many Brewers Sparrows and Mountain Bluebirds with Sage Sparrows and Sage Thrashers in the denser sagebrush.
 
(This area is in the Utopia Christmas Bird Count Circle)
 
For more information contact:: Crooked River National Grassland, 813 Southwest Highway 97, Madras, Oregon 97741 (541) 475-9272
 

Metolius return to the top

Geographic Coordinates  44 35’ 15” N   121 10’ 36” W, Culver Geographic Coordinates 44 31’ 26” N   121 12’ 35” W, Crooked River Campground Geographic Coordinates  44 32’ 24” N   121 15’ 20” W, and Surrounding Farmlands DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 D-7   DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37  E-9

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Best Times to Visit: Fall and Winter
 
Habitat:  Irrigation Ponds, Agricultural, and Deciduous Trees.
 
General Birds in Area: Raptors and Sparrows.
 
(Part of this area is in the Utopia Christmas Bird Count Circle)
 
Directions:  Crooked River Campground is on the way to Lake Billy Chinook right before you start down the steep hill and on the left.  The tiny towns of Metolius and Culver are north of Bend on Hwy 97 and south of Madras.
 
Amenities:  Birding, photography.  
 

Madras Sewage Ponds return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 D-8    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37 E-10   Geographic Coordinates 44 37’ 22” N   121 06’ 39” W

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Location:  From downtown Madras, turn east on “C” St. and follow it out of town. This road becomes SE Grizzly Rd. and will pass right next to the sewer ponds. There is no access to these ponds but they can easily be viewed from the road.
 
Habitat and Birds: Many ducks are attracted here in the winter.  Low numbers of shorebirds pass through during the migration periods. 

Buck Butte and Madras East return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 A-7    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 C-1    Geographic Coordinates 44 37’ 42” N   121 03’ 30” W

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Location:  This area can be accessed from several locations.  One common way is to travel east on B St. from Hwy 97 in Madras.  This road becomes the Ashwood Road and can be followed all the way to Ashwood.  From Highway 97, you can also access the area using "C" St. in Madras and traveling east on the Grizzly Road or you can enter using Loucks Road north of the intersection of Hwys 97 and 26.   Once you enter the area east of Madras, carefully assess road conditions.  D Street, the Ashwood Road, NFD 1167, Hereford, Loucks, and Dover Ln. are good for passenger cars. Other side roads may require 4-wheel drive.  Make several loops from road to road.  There is quite a diverse habitat set here and the birding can be very productive.

Habitat and Birds:  Desert species like Sage Thrasher, Brewer's Sparrow, Northern Shrike, and Sage Sparrow can be found.  The Gray Flycatcher can be found in Juniper stands and Canyon Wrens are common in the rimrock areas.  Look for Lazuli Bunting along NFD ll76.  Virginia Rail and Bullock's Oriole are found on the same road.  Northern Mockingbird has been recorded in this area several times.  Cassin's Finches and Common Nighthawks nest in the area.  Raptors include Prairie Falcons and Swainson's Hawks.
 
Perry South Campground return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 D-5    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37 E-7  Geographic Coordinates 44° 35’ 06” N   121° 26’ 49” W

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Location:  From Sisters, drive west on Hwy 20/126 and turn right, (north), on Road 11, to Road 1170, and turn left on to Road 64. It is near the mouth of the Metolius River where it flows into Lake Billy Chinook.  A beautiful campground with large ponderosa trees, boat ramp, and scenic setting. 

Amenities: Perry South Campground has birding, car camping, hiking, picnicking, photography and a boat launch.  Campsites with restrooms.
Best Times to Visit: Spring, Fall & Winter.

Fly Lake return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 D-5    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37 F-7 

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Location:  From Sisters, drive west on Hwy 20/126 and turn right, north, on Road 11, to Road 1170, and turn right on to Road 64.  It is on the corner of Road 64 and Graham Road; you will have to look closely for Road #016.  It is a 4-Wheel Drive road, but is only about two blocks or less, so you could park and walk to Fly Lake.

Best Times to Visit: Spring, Fall & Winter.

Lake Billy Chinook return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 D-6   DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37 E-8    Geographic Coordinates 44 33’ 16” N   121 15’ 42” W

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Location:  From Madras, travel south about 8 miles on Hwy 97. Turn west on SW Iris Drive and travel about 4 miles through the town of Culver until Iris dead ends at Feather Dr. Turn north on Feather and take it several miles following the signs to Cove Palisades State Park. Turn west on Frazier Dr. and turn west at the Cove Palisades Store. Follow the signs to Lake Billy Chinook.

Amenities: Lake Billy Chinook is a resort area and has multiple amenities.  Birding, picnicking, boat launch, kayaking, marina, boat rentals, supplies, swimming, flush toilets, camp store, cabins for rent, etc.

Habitat and Birds:  Large open water body surrounded by steep cliffs and juniper scrub.  This reservoir rarely freezes and often holds Ducks, Grebes and Common Loon.  Often large numbers of Gulls are attracted to the boat ramp at the Cove Palisades State Park.  At the same location it is possible to see Chukar on the cliffs and Canyon Wren.  There are several car parks that give access to the water.  Often these hold interesting birds, especially in the migration periods and winter (often Yellow-rumped Warbler and Varied Thrush can be found in the winter).
(Part of this area is in the Utopia Christmas Bird Count Circle)

Best Times to Visit: Spring, Fall & Winter.
 

Pelton Dam Overlook return to the top

Geographic Coordinates44 43’ 18” N   121 14’ 35” W) Warm Springs Museum (Geographic Coordinates 44 45’ 47” N   121 15’ 02” W and Dry Creek Recreation Area (Geographic Coordinates 44 47’ 08” N   121 11’ 59” W) - DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 C-7  DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37 D-9 

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Best Times to Visit: Spring, Fall & Winter
 
Habitat:  Deep Water, Mud Flats, and Agricultural Fields
 
General Birds in Area: Waterfowl, Raptors, Passerines and Sparrows
 
Directions:  Bend to Lake Simtustus is approximately 53 miles.  Hwy 97 Madras, North on Hwy 26, turn right on Pelton Dam Road, follow signs to overlook.  To Dry Creek: North on Hwy 26 past Warm Springs Museum, turn right, west, on Agency Hot Springs Road to Dry Creek Road.
 
Amenities:  Birding! There is camping at Dry Creek Recreation Area and photography.  The Warm Springs Museum is a must see and a great place to have a picnic.
 
Pelton Dam is a large water area surrounded by riparian woodland with some mud flats.  It holds much wildfowl in season.  The surrounding area holds Mountain Quail and Chukka.  In the summer Herons nest and there is an impressive Turkey Vulture roost.  In winter there is always large sparrow flocks near the car park. 

Agency Plains return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 C-7    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37 C-10   Geographic Coordinates 44 44’ 19” N   121 08’ 55” W

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Location:  This is an area of agricultural lands north of Madras between Hwy 97 and Hwy 26.  There are many access roads.  Try Dogwood Ln for Gray Partridge.
 
Habitat and Birds:  In the summer Swainson’s Hawks, being replaced in the winter by other raptors including Rough Legged Hawks and is good for wintering flocks of Sparrows, Pipits and Horned Larks.  A few Long Billed Curlews breed in this area.
 
 Ashwood Area return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 A-1    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 B-2    Geographic Coordinates 44 44’ 01” N   121 45’ 15” W

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Location:  Directions:  North on Hwy 97 to Madras, continued North on Hwy 97 (bear right); turn right on Pony Butte Road.  This road also has a sign that says "Ashwood 17 miles).  Across the street from this turn is a large red barn with a silver roof and other surrounding outbuildings.  If the weather has been dry, a good scenic trip back to Madras is to take the dirt Ashwood Road back to Madras.  This road travels south out of Ashwood and winds its way through grasslands and high desert.  There is a large reservoir about half way back to Madras that can be good for waterfowl and waders.  This is the largest body of water in the area.
 
Habitat and Birds:  Canyon with riparian vegetation and creek.  This is a great area for the secretive Mountain Quail.  Rock and Canyon Wren can be found on the canyon walls.  Loggerhead Shrike, Sage Thrasher, and other desert species are common along the Ashwood Road. 
 
Best Times to Visit: Late Spring or summer.
 

Gateway(Geographic Coordinates 44 27’ 04” N   121 05’ 53” W), Trout Creek Campground & Area(Geographic Coordinates 44 48’ 04” N   121 04’ 05” W ) DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 B-8    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37 C-10 return to the top

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Best Times to Visit: Spring and Fall
 
General Birds in Area: Neotropical Migrants, Game Birds.
 
Location: From Bend, drive north on Hwy 97 to Madras, bear right and stay on Hwy 97.  Turn left on Cora Drive/Clark Drive to the town of Gateway.  Follow the signs to Trout Creek Recreation Area, the road to Trout Creek on the map is called Clemens Drive turning into Cook Lane and then turning into Coleman Road.
 
Amenities: Birding!  Car camping, hiking, boat launch, picnicking, photography.  Campground has restrooms.
 
Habitat and Birds:  Black backed Chickadees can be found in the riparian woodland along the sides of the river.  This is also a good area to check for migrant songbirds and Red eyed Vireos can occasionally be seen.  The area is good for raptors in the summer including Prairie Falcons, Golden Eagle and Swainson’s Hawk.
 

Alder Springs return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 51 A-6    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 43 A-8    Geographic Coordinates 44 26’ 37” N   121 20’ 47” W 

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Location:  From HWY 97 Just north of Terrebonne, turn west on Lower Bridge Rd. Travel about 10 miles and turn left on Holmes Rd. Travel 2.2 miles to the entrance road on the right. Turn in and go a short distance to a gate. This gate is unlocked but needs to be closed behind you. Travel another 5 miles to Alder Springs.  FROM SISTERS From Sisters travel 5 miles east on Hwy 126. Turn left on Holmes Rd. Travel about a mile and a half to a “T” in the road. Take a right and go 6.5 miles to milepost 7. Turn left onto the entrance road to Alder Springs.
 
Habitat and Birds:  Riparian Habitat, cliffs and open dry brush habitat.  Associated with the cliffs are Golden eagles, Canyon and Rock Wrens and White Throated Swifts.  Close to the river Lazuli Buntings, Dippers and Lewis’s Woodpeckers.  During migrations periods many migrants drop it.  In the upper dry areas, there are breeding sparrows (Brewer’s and Lark), Gray Flycatcher and you can find Pinyon Jays passing through.
 
Best Times to Visit: Spring, Summer, and Fall
 
Amenities:  Birding! Dispersed camping, hiking, picnicking and photography.
 
 

Whiskey Springs return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 50 A-4  DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37    Geographic Coordinates 44 28’ 09” N   121 34’ 26” W

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Location:  Travel west out of Sisters about 5 miles to Indian Ford Rd. Turn north on Indian Ford and travel just a short distance and turn left on Forest Rd. 11. Take this road about 8.5 miles and turn left on NFD 1140.  Go about 1.6 miles to the spring.

Habitat and Birds:  The surrounding forest holds Woodpeckers, Hermit, Nashville and Townsend’s Warbler, Flycatchers and Sooty Grouse.  The springs can be good for fall migrants and summer nesters.

Best Times to Visit: Spring, Summer, and Fall

Prairie Farm Springs

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 50 A-4  DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37 F-6    Geographic Coordinates 44 33’ 16” N   121 35’ 16” W

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Location:  Travel west out of Sisters about 5 miles to Indian Ford Rd. Turn north on Indian Ford and travel just a short distance and turn left on Forest Rd. 11. Take this road about 10 miles until the pavement ends and take a left on Forest Rd. 1150 (SW Prairie Farm Cutoff)  Go 6 miles and turn left on Forest Rd. 800 (SW 6 Creek Rd.).  Go a short distance and turn right on SW Prairie Farm Rd.   Go 1.5 miles and look for a dirt road off to your right which will lead to the springs.

Habitat and Birds:  The surrounding forest holds Woodpeckers, Hermit, Nashville and Townsend’s Warbler, Flycatchers and Sooty Grouse.  The springs can be good for fall migrants and summer nesters.

Best Times to Visit: Spring, Summer, and Fall

Green Ridge return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 56 D-4  DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 36 F-5   Geographic Coordinates (Hawkwatch Trailhead) 44 32’ 02” N   121 36’ 11” W           (Hawkwatch Survey Site) 44 32’ 13” N   121 36’ 13” W 

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Location:  Take Hgwy. 20 west of Sisters 6 miles (one mile east of Black Butte Ranch) to the Forest Rd.(FR) 11 Jct.  Go north on FR 11 for 10 miles to end of pavement.  At the end of pavement bear left on FR 1150 for 7 miles.  Follow signs to Green Ridge Lookout.  Turn left on FR 1154 also follow lookout sign.  Go for 1 mile to FR 1140 jct.  also lookout sign Go left on FR 1140 for approx 1/4 mile to 600 road jct. ( the first jct.)  Go right on 600 RD for approx 1 mile.  There will be a parking spot on the right in old clear-cut marked with blue ribbon.  If you go to the top of the ridge you have gone too far.  The trail to the site 1/4 mile goes to the north and is well marked with blue ribbon.  When the ribbon stops you are there.  The migrating birds will be flying north to south on your left, your right , or straight overhead depending on the winds.  To explore more of this ridge, purchase a Deschutes Nat. Forest Map from any Forest Service Office.   
Habitat and Birds:  Upland forest of pines and fir.  During the fall migration (September and October) large numbers of raptors migrate over from rival Bonny Butte to the north.  ECAS monitors this migration each year.  The surrounding forest holds woodpeckers, Hermit, Nashville and Townsend’s Warbler, flycatchers and Sooty Grouse.
 

Camp Sherman return to the top

Geographic Coordinates44 27’ 36” N   121 38’ 36” W,  Lake Creek Lodge Geographic Coordinates 44 26’ 42” N   121 39’ 13” W, Candle Creek Campground Geographic Coordinates 44 31’ 24” N   121 37’ 58” W, Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery Geographic Coordinates 44 31’ 24” N   121 37’ 58” W   DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 56 A-4    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 42 A-5

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Best Times to Visit: Spring and summer.
 
Habitat:  Riparian and River corridor
 
General Birds in Area: forest birds, neo-tropic migrants and hummingbirds.  Make sure you stop at the Bridge in Camp Sherman and follow the trails on both sides of the river downstream.  American Dippers are always present at the bridge and there is plenty of bird activity along the river.  Lake Creek Lodge has a trail and hummingbird feeders.  Stop in at the lodge and ask to use the trails and hike the area.  Listen for the Olive-sided Flycatchers and Western Wood- Pewees at Lake Creek Lodge.  MacGillivray's Warblers like the trail along the river here.
 
Location: To find Camp Sherman, from Sisters, drive west on Hwy 20/126 for 9.3 miles, turn right on to Road 14.  Drive north on Road 14 for 2.7 miles and the road will fork.  Take the left fork (the right fork will get you to Camp Sherman too but it's less interesting) and travel 2.1 miles to Forest Road 1419 (1/2 mile past the fork, you will find Lake Creek Lodge).  Turn right and travel 1/2 mile to Camp Sherman.  It is approximately 35 miles from Bend to Camp Sherman.  To find Wizard Falls Fish  Hatchery, travel north from Camp Sherman on Forest Road 14 for 4.6 miles and look for road 1400/640 to the left.  Take this road and cross the river to the fish hatchery.  To find Candle Creek Campground, continue past the turnoff to Wizard falls on road 14 until you come to Bridge 99 (Lower Bridge).  This is about 2.8 miles past the Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery Road.  Cross the Metolius River and the road becomes Road 12.   Travel 1/2 mile and you will see a 4-way intersection.  Veer to the right (this keeps you on Rd 12).  About 1/4 of a mile past the 4-way you will cross Abbott Creek.  After crossing, look for the signs to Candle Creek Campground.
 
Amenities:  Birding! Car camping, hiking, photography and picnicking.  Campsites with restrooms.  There is access to numerous trailheads with opportunities for backpacking.  
 

Abbott Butte return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 56 D-3  DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 36 F-4   Geographic Coordinates   44.5582N   121.7107W

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Location:  To find Abbott Butte, from Sisters, drive west on Hwy 20/126 for 9.3 miles, turn right on to Road 14 (follow the signs to Camp Sherman).  Drive north on Road 14 for 2.7 miles and the road will fork.  Take the left fork which is Road 1419 (the right fork will get you to Camp Sherman) and travel 2.1 miles to the intersection of Forest Road 1419 and Road 1216 (SW Camp Sherman Road).  Continue north without turning and you will be on Forest Road 1420.  Go 3.6 miles to Forest Road 12.   Turn right and go 1.5 miles.  Turn left on the 800 Road.  Explore this road as far as your vehicle permits.  You can make a loop around Abbott Butte by staying right at each intersection and returning to Forest Road 12 (use a good map here).  If you aren't that adventurous, return to Forest Road 12 after exploring Road 800.  Continue north on Road 12 for 1.2 miles and turn left on Forest Road 1280.  Bird this road as it loops around Abbott Butte.  Reverse your course to return to Camp Sherman or Sisters.   
 
Habitat and Birds:  Upland forest of pines and fir with many burned areas and clear-cuts.  The surrounding forest holds woodpeckers (Black-backed, Lewis's, American Three-toed, and more), warblers (Hermit, Nashville and Townsend’s),  flycatchers (Olive-sided, Dusky, Hammond's, Pacific-Slope) and Sooty Grouse.  This is a good area for Lazuli Bunting.
 

Black Butte   return to the top

Geographic Coordinates44 23’ 57” N   121 38’ 04” W     DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 50 A-4     DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 42 Pg A-5

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Best Times to Visit: Summer and Fall  (Winter inaccessible except by skiing)
 
Habitat:  High Elevation Lakes, Subalpine Forests, and Timberline

General Birds in Area: Waterfowl and Finches.
 
Location:  Black Butte Website   

Metolius Preserve return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 50 A-3    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 42 A-4     Geographic Coordinates METOLIUS PRESERVE N. KIOSK - 44 26’ 48” N   121 40’ 48”  METOLIUS PRESERVE S. KIOSK - 44 26’ 01” N   121 41’ 54” W

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Location:  For maps, directions, and information, go to The Deschutes Basin Land Trust Website    TO SOUTH FORK KIOSK FROM SISTERS Drive 10.6 miles west of Sisters on Hwy 126/20. Take a right on Forest Rd. 2064 (Warm Springs Rd.). Travel 2.6 miles on 2064. Turn right on Forest Rd. 800. Go ¼ mile and turn right on Forest Rd. 810. Go ¼ mile to the kiosk. Maps are available here.  TO NORTH FORK KIOSK FROM SISTERS, Drive 9.8 miles west of Sisters. Take a right on Rd. 14 (Camp Sherman). Travel 2.6 miles until you come to a “Y”. Stay left and go 2.2 miles. Turn left on Forest Rd. 1216. Drive 1.4 miles and take a left on Forest Rd. 600. Drive ¼ mile to the kiosk. Maps are available here.
 
Habitat and Birds:  Upland forest of Pines and fur.  This is a prime birding spot that holds most of the upland forest birds.  White Headed and Pileated Woodpeckers (close to north fork of Lake Creek) are fairly easy to see.  Both Sooty Grouse and Ruffed Grouse can be found.  This is a fantastic area.  Unusual strays that are more common to the east have been found here in the summer.  A list of species can be found at The Deschutes Basin Land Trust Website 

Round Lake return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 50 A-3    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 42 A-3     Geographic Coordinates 44 26’ 37” N   121 47’ 24” W 

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Location: From Sisters, drive west on Hwy 20/126 for 13.2 miles.  Turn right on Forest Road 1210.  Travel 1/4 mile and turn left on the Round Lake Rd. (this is still Road 1210).   Travel just under 5 miles and look for Forest Road 600 on your left.  Take 600 3/4 of a mile to the trailhead for the lake.

Best Times to Visit: Late Spring, Summer, Fall

Habitat and Birds:  The burns close to Round Lake have been a good location for Black backed and Three Toed Woodpecker.  Lazuli Buntings have taken to the burnt open areas and Sooty Grouse and Mountain Quail can be found.

Suttle Lake return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 50 A-3    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 42 A-4     Geographic Coordinates 44 27’ 04” N   121 05’ 53” W

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Location: From Sisters, drive west on Hwy 20/126 for 13.2 miles.  Best Times to Visit: All seasons

General Birds in Area: Water birds, raptors, mountian warblers, and woodpeckers
 
(This area is in the Santiam Christmas Bird Count Circle)
 
Location: From Sisters, drive west on Hwy 20/126, turn left at the first Suttle Lake turn, Suttle Lake Campgrounds.  It is approximately 35 miles from Bend to Suttle Lake.
 
Amenities:  Birding! Car camping, hiking, picnicking and photography.  The campsites have restrooms.  Suttle Lake is a resort area and has a small restaurant, boating, cabins for rent, etc.  There is a nice hiking trail that goes around Suttle Lake.  Blue Lake is near Suttle Lake and part of Blue Lake is in Corbett State Park.
 
Habitat and Birds:  Large Lake surrounded by forest.  The lake holds wildfowl.  And the surrounding forest holds most of the local woodpeckers and Pygmy Owl
 
 

Jefferson Wilderness Trail Heads return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 50 A-3    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 42 A-3     Geographic Coordinates 44 27’ 04” N   121 05’ 53” W
 
Location: Leave Sisters west on Hwy 20/126, turn right on Road 12.  Take Road 12 to Road 1234.  Follow signs.  To Round Lake, follow signs from Road 12 to Road 1210.
 
Amenities:  Birding! There is car camping at Round Lake and the campsite has a restroom.  Hiking, photography, and backpacking.  The trailhead at Jack Lake has a restroom.
 
Habitat and Birds:  High elevation forest.  The burns close to Round Lake have been a good location for Black backed and Three Toed Woodpecker.  Lazuli Buntings have taken to the burnt open areas and Sooty Grouse and Mountain Quail can be found.

Corbett Snow Park and Adjacent Forest Service Road

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DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 50 A-3    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 42 A-3    Geographic Coordinates 44 25’ 14” N   121 47’ 28” W 

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Best Times to Visit: Late Spring, Summer and Fall
 
Habitat: Mountain Ponds and Marshes, Pine and Fir Forests
 
General Birds in Area: High Mountain birds  (This area is in the Santiam Christmas Bird Count Circle) 
 
Location: From Sisters west on Hwy 20/126 past Suttle Lake.  Turn left at signs to Corbett Sno Park.  Continue through parking lot to a dirt road, Forest Service Road #800, and then follow Road #800 to multiple, small beautiful lakes.
 
Amenities:  Birding, car camping, hiking, photography, snow shoeing and cross country skiing.  There is a restroom at the Sno Park.

Olallie Lake   return to the top

Geographic Coordinates44 48’ 20” N   121 47’ 07” W   and Jefferson Park   44 42’ 44” N   121 48’ 15” W  Jefferson Park Trailhead 44 42’ 24” N   121 52’ 29” W  DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 56 B-2   DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 36 C-4 

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Best Times to Visit: Summer and Fall  (Winter inaccessible except by skiing)
 
Habitat:  High Elevation Lakes, Subalpine Forests, and Timberline

General Birds in Area: Waterfowl and Finches.
 
Location: From Bend, drive to Sisters, and then stay on Hwy 20/126 to Hwy 22 to Detroit.  Turn right on Road 46 for 17.5 miles (follow signs to Breitenbush Hot Springs Resort).  Turn right on Road 4690 and travel for 8.1miles (Road 4690 turns into a gravel road after 6miles) then turn right on Road 4220.  Follow Road 4220 for 6 miles to Olallie Lake.  To locate the Jefferson Park trailhead, travel about 10 miles east of Detroit and turn north on Forest Road 2243.  Take this road 7.4 miles to the parking area at the trailhead.  The park is a 5 mile hike in wilderness areas so make sure proper preparations are made. 
 
To get back to Detroit, you can either go back the same way you came or you can continue on Road 4220 and make a loop out of the drive.  Continuing on the loop back to Road 4690 on Road 4220, the road becomes very rough.  You must have a high clearance vehicle.  This way is not recommended unless you like rocky, slow roads, it is scenic though!
 
Amenities:  Birding, car camping at some of the smaller lakes, hiking, and photography.  There are some campsites with restrooms.  Paul Dennis Mt. Hood National Forest Campground is right on the shore of Olallie Lake.  There are tent sites, and both cabins and yurts for rent. There are numerous small lakes and ponds if you continue on Road 4220.  Olallie Lake is a water source, so swimming is not allowed.  At Triangle Lake there is a horse camp. Horseshoe Lake was my favorite.
 
Disclaimer:  There may be many more amenities at some areas, and some of them may not be open at times in others.  We have tried to be as accurate as we could!  It is best to always take a couple of good, detailed maps with you.
 

Birding Locations

Crooked River National Grasslands  return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 D-8    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37 F-10    Geographic Coordinates 44 27’ 04” N   121 05’ 53” W

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Location: This area lies south of madras and between Hwy 97 and Hwy 26.  There are many access roads that become quite rough close to Gray Butte; 1) North of Redmond on Hwy 97 turn off to east on Norris Ln, 2) South of Madras on Hwy 26 (just south of Rim Rock Springs) turn west on Ramms Rd, 3) to access Gray Butte and Squaw Hollow take Lone Pine Rd in the southern region and follow signs to the northwest to Squaw Hollow. 
 
Habitat and Birds: The flat “grasslands” is mostly Juniper forest and sagebrush lands.  On the slopes of Gray Butte there are some interesting springs where Lazuli Buntings can be found and migrant songbirds.  The flat areas have breeding Lark, Sage, Vesper and Brewers Sparrows.  Sage Thrashers are common and you can see Prairie Falcons, Golden Eagles, Gray Flycatchers and Loggerhead Shrikes in the summer.  In the winter look for Northern Shrike and winter raptors.
 
Best Times to Visit: Spring and summer.  (This area is in the Utopia Christmas Bird Count Circle)
 
Amenities:  Birding! Horse & car camping.  Campground has a restroom.
 
This spot deserves more attention from birders.  A nice loop is to start at Peter Ogden Wayside, continue through Hawk Alley, stop at Haystack Reservoir, continue to Cyrus Springs and end your day of birding with Rimrock Springs Wildlife Management Area.
 

Peter Ogden Wayside  return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 51 A-7    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 43 B-9  Geographic Coordinates 44 23’ 28” N   121 11’ 15” W

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Best Times to Visit: Spring, summer and fall.
 
Habitat:  Gorge with Shear Cliffs
 
General Birds in Area: Cliff and Canyon birds  (This area is in the Utopia Christmas Bird Count Circle)
 
Key Species
White-throated Swift
Violet-green Swallow
Canyon Wren
 
Directions:  From Bend, drive north on Hwy 97.  It is near the Deschutes County and Jefferson County line.  Turn left at sign before you come to the new suspension bridge over the Crooked River.  This is a nice spot to stop and stretch your legs and peer over the side into the canyon.
 
Amenities:  Birding! Looking into the canyon - quite scenic and the wayside has nice, big, restrooms.
 
Gray Butte & Skull Hollow  return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 51 A-8    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 43 A-10    Geographic Coordinates 44 29’ 35” N   121 09’ 33” W

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Location: On Hwy 97, go south of Madras about 9 miles past the turnoff to Culver. Look for Jericho Lane. Take Jericho to the east and travel about a mile. Follow the signs to Haystack Reservoir on Haystack Dr. which is south of Jericho Lane.  .  It is approximately 35 miles from Bend to Haystack Reservoir.
From Haystack, continue east on SW King Lane.  At 1.6 miles past the east entrance to Haystack Reservoir, the road forks.  Take the left fork which becomes Laurel Lane.  Travel 2.2 miles on Laurel and you will come to a set of corrals.  Turn into the road that goes past the corrals.  This is the road to Gray Butte.  The sage areas are full of sparrows.  At .5 miles up this road, you can take a side trip to the west that will loop you back to Haystack.  This road has several old homesteads on it.  There are no buildings left but the orchards and ornamental trees are still there and make for good birding (gnatcatchers used to nest here but are rarely found now).   Continue up Gray Butte traveling south.  The road peaks and begins to weave down-slope.  At 1.2 miles from Laurel, the road forks again.  Take the right fork (the left will take you through good country and back to Hwy 26).  This area is called Skull Hollow and has more Junipers.  Several water troughs have been set up along the way and these are popular with the local birds.  The road comes out of Skull Hollow and reaches pavement.  Turn left to return to Hwy 26 or right to go the O'Neil Valley in Crook County.

Habitat and Birds:  Riparian springs, sage, and surrounding Juniper forest.  Check the riparian areas for Lazuli Buntings.  Near the top of the Gray Butte Road, there is an Orchard.  This area has had Mountain Quail and Lewis's Woodpecker.   Watch for Rattlesnakes as they do frequent this area.

Haystack Reservoir  return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 D-8    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37 F-10    Geographic Coordinates 44 29’ 35” N   121 09’ 33” W

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Location: On Hwy 97, go south of Madras about 9 miles past the turnoff to Culver. Look for Jericho Lane. Take Jericho to the east and travel about a mile. Follow the signs to Haystack Reservoir on Haystack Dr. which is south of Jericho Lane.  .  It is approximately 35 miles from Bend to Haystack Reservoir.
 
Habitat and Birds:  Open water, willows and surrounding Juniper forest.  This is a local hotspot for shorebirds, ducks and grebes.  There are two good migrant songbird areas: to the south end of the western car park, and at the south end of the reservoir.  Bald Eagles are general present year round and the surrounding agricultural fields are good for winter raptors.
 
Amenities:  There is a nice campsite on the other side of the reservoir.  Birding, car camping, hiking, photography and boating.  Campsites with restrooms.
 
Best Times to Visit: Fall and winter.
 

Rim Rock Springs WMA  return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 51 A-8    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 C-1     Geographic Coordinates 44 29’ 39” N   121 02’ 21” W

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Location: Rimrock Springs Wildlife Management area is located on Hwy 26 between Madras and Prineville. From Madras, travel south on Hwy 97 to the Jct of Hwy 26. Take 26 SE (follow the signs to Prineville). About 10 miles down this road is a wayside with bathrooms and a hiking trail to access the wildlife area. I would recommend traveling a mile further toward Prineville and looking for a dirt road called Ramms Rd. (this is sometimes labeled as Grizzly Rd on some maps). Take this road for ¾ of a mile and turn left on NFD Rd. 1270. This will take you to a parking area and better access to the wildlife area.
 
Habitat and Birds:  A series of reed fringed pools surrounded by juniper forest and sagebrush.  This is a good area for Ducks, Rails and Northern Harriers.  The open Juniper forest is home to many Brewers Sparrows and Mountain Bluebirds with Sage Sparrows and Sage Thrashers in the denser sagebrush.
 
(This area is in the Utopia Christmas Bird Count Circle)
 
For more information contact:: Crooked River National Grassland, 813 Southwest Highway 97, Madras, Oregon 97741 (541) 475-9272
 

Metolius return to the top

Geographic Coordinates  44 35’ 15” N   121 10’ 36” W, Culver Geographic Coordinates 44 31’ 26” N   121 12’ 35” W, Crooked River Campground Geographic Coordinates  44 32’ 24” N   121 15’ 20” W, and Surrounding Farmlands DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 D-7   DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37  E-9

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Best Times to Visit: Fall and Winter
 
Habitat:  Irrigation Ponds, Agricultural, and Deciduous Trees.
 
General Birds in Area: Raptors and Sparrows.
 
(Part of this area is in the Utopia Christmas Bird Count Circle)
 
Directions:  Crooked River Campground is on the way to Lake Billy Chinook right before you start down the steep hill and on the left.  The tiny towns of Metolius and Culver are north of Bend on Hwy 97 and south of Madras.
 
Amenities:  Birding, photography.  
 

Madras Sewage Ponds return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 D-8    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37 E-10   Geographic Coordinates 44 37’ 22” N   121 06’ 39” W

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Location:  From downtown Madras, turn east on “C” St. and follow it out of town. This road becomes SE Grizzly Rd. and will pass right next to the sewer ponds. There is no access to these ponds but they can easily be viewed from the road.
 
Habitat and Birds: Many ducks are attracted here in the winter.  Low numbers of shorebirds pass through during the migration periods. 

Buck Butte and Madras East return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 A-7    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 C-1    Geographic Coordinates 44 37’ 42” N   121 03’ 30” W

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Location:  This area can be accessed from several locations.  One common way is to travel east on B St. from Hwy 97 in Madras.  This road becomes the Ashwood Road and can be followed all the way to Ashwood.  From Highway 97, you can also access the area using "C" St. in Madras and traveling east on the Grizzly Road or you can enter using Loucks Road north of the intersection of Hwys 97 and 26.   Once you enter the area east of Madras, carefully assess road conditions.  D Street, the Ashwood Road, NFD 1167, Hereford, Loucks, and Dover Ln. are good for passenger cars. Other side roads may require 4-wheel drive.  Make several loops from road to road.  There is quite a diverse habitat set here and the birding can be very productive.

Habitat and Birds:  Desert species like Sage Thrasher, Brewer's Sparrow, Northern Shrike, and Sage Sparrow can be found.  The Gray Flycatcher can be found in Juniper stands and Canyon Wrens are common in the rimrock areas.  Look for Lazuli Bunting along NFD ll76.  Virginia Rail and Bullock's Oriole are found on the same road.  Northern Mockingbird has been recorded in this area several times.  Cassin's Finches and Common Nighthawks nest in the area.  Raptors include Prairie Falcons and Swainson's Hawks.
 
Perry South Campground return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 D-5    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37 E-7  Geographic Coordinates 44° 35’ 06” N   121° 26’ 49” W

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Location:  From Sisters, drive west on Hwy 20/126 and turn right, (north), on Road 11, to Road 1170, and turn left on to Road 64. It is near the mouth of the Metolius River where it flows into Lake Billy Chinook.  A beautiful campground with large ponderosa trees, boat ramp, and scenic setting. 

Amenities: Perry South Campground has birding, car camping, hiking, picnicking, photography and a boat launch.  Campsites with restrooms.
Best Times to Visit: Spring, Fall & Winter.

Fly Lake return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 D-5    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37 F-7 

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Location:  From Sisters, drive west on Hwy 20/126 and turn right, north, on Road 11, to Road 1170, and turn right on to Road 64.  It is on the corner of Road 64 and Graham Road; you will have to look closely for Road #016.  It is a 4-Wheel Drive road, but is only about two blocks or less, so you could park and walk to Fly Lake.

Best Times to Visit: Spring, Fall & Winter.

Lake Billy Chinook return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 D-6   DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37 E-8    Geographic Coordinates 44 33’ 16” N   121 15’ 42” W

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Location:  From Madras, travel south about 8 miles on Hwy 97. Turn west on SW Iris Drive and travel about 4 miles through the town of Culver until Iris dead ends at Feather Dr. Turn north on Feather and take it several miles following the signs to Cove Palisades State Park. Turn west on Frazier Dr. and turn west at the Cove Palisades Store. Follow the signs to Lake Billy Chinook.

Amenities: Lake Billy Chinook is a resort area and has multiple amenities.  Birding, picnicking, boat launch, kayaking, marina, boat rentals, supplies, swimming, flush toilets, camp store, cabins for rent, etc.

Habitat and Birds:  Large open water body surrounded by steep cliffs and juniper scrub.  This reservoir rarely freezes and often holds Ducks, Grebes and Common Loon.  Often large numbers of Gulls are attracted to the boat ramp at the Cove Palisades State Park.  At the same location it is possible to see Chukar on the cliffs and Canyon Wren.  There are several car parks that give access to the water.  Often these hold interesting birds, especially in the migration periods and winter (often Yellow-rumped Warbler and Varied Thrush can be found in the winter).
(Part of this area is in the Utopia Christmas Bird Count Circle)

Best Times to Visit: Spring, Fall & Winter.
 

Pelton Dam Overlook return to the top

Geographic Coordinates44 43’ 18” N   121 14’ 35” W) Warm Springs Museum (Geographic Coordinates 44 45’ 47” N   121 15’ 02” W and Dry Creek Recreation Area (Geographic Coordinates 44 47’ 08” N   121 11’ 59” W) - DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 C-7  DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37 D-9 

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Best Times to Visit: Spring, Fall & Winter
 
Habitat:  Deep Water, Mud Flats, and Agricultural Fields
 
General Birds in Area: Waterfowl, Raptors, Passerines and Sparrows
 
Directions:  Bend to Lake Simtustus is approximately 53 miles.  Hwy 97 Madras, North on Hwy 26, turn right on Pelton Dam Road, follow signs to overlook.  To Dry Creek: North on Hwy 26 past Warm Springs Museum, turn right, west, on Agency Hot Springs Road to Dry Creek Road.
 
Amenities:  Birding! There is camping at Dry Creek Recreation Area and photography.  The Warm Springs Museum is a must see and a great place to have a picnic.
 
Pelton Dam is a large water area surrounded by riparian woodland with some mud flats.  It holds much wildfowl in season.  The surrounding area holds Mountain Quail and Chukka.  In the summer Herons nest and there is an impressive Turkey Vulture roost.  In winter there is always large sparrow flocks near the car park. 

Agency Plains return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 C-7    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37 C-10   Geographic Coordinates 44 44’ 19” N   121 08’ 55” W

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Location:  This is an area of agricultural lands north of Madras between Hwy 97 and Hwy 26.  There are many access roads.  Try Dogwood Ln for Gray Partridge.
 
Habitat and Birds:  In the summer Swainson’s Hawks, being replaced in the winter by other raptors including Rough Legged Hawks and is good for wintering flocks of Sparrows, Pipits and Horned Larks.  A few Long Billed Curlews breed in this area.
 
 Ashwood Area return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 80 A-1    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 76 B-2    Geographic Coordinates 44 44’ 01” N   121 45’ 15” W

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Location:  Directions:  North on Hwy 97 to Madras, continued North on Hwy 97 (bear right); turn right on Pony Butte Road.  This road also has a sign that says "Ashwood 17 miles).  Across the street from this turn is a large red barn with a silver roof and other surrounding outbuildings.  If the weather has been dry, a good scenic trip back to Madras is to take the dirt Ashwood Road back to Madras.  This road travels south out of Ashwood and winds its way through grasslands and high desert.  There is a large reservoir about half way back to Madras that can be good for waterfowl and waders.  This is the largest body of water in the area.
 
Habitat and Birds:  Canyon with riparian vegetation and creek.  This is a great area for the secretive Mountain Quail.  Rock and Canyon Wren can be found on the canyon walls.  Loggerhead Shrike, Sage Thrasher, and other desert species are common along the Ashwood Road. 
 
Best Times to Visit: Late Spring or summer.
 

Gateway(Geographic Coordinates 44 27’ 04” N   121 05’ 53” W), Trout Creek Campground & Area(Geographic Coordinates 44 48’ 04” N   121 04’ 05” W ) DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 57 B-8    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37 C-10 return to the top

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Best Times to Visit: Spring and Fall
 
General Birds in Area: Neotropical Migrants, Game Birds.
 
Location: From Bend, drive north on Hwy 97 to Madras, bear right and stay on Hwy 97.  Turn left on Cora Drive/Clark Drive to the town of Gateway.  Follow the signs to Trout Creek Recreation Area, the road to Trout Creek on the map is called Clemens Drive turning into Cook Lane and then turning into Coleman Road.
 
Amenities: Birding!  Car camping, hiking, boat launch, picnicking, photography.  Campground has restrooms.
 
Habitat and Birds:  Black backed Chickadees can be found in the riparian woodland along the sides of the river.  This is also a good area to check for migrant songbirds and Red eyed Vireos can occasionally be seen.  The area is good for raptors in the summer including Prairie Falcons, Golden Eagle and Swainson’s Hawk.
 

Alder Springs return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 51 A-6    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 43 A-8    Geographic Coordinates 44 26’ 37” N   121 20’ 47” W 

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Location:  From HWY 97 Just north of Terrebonne, turn west on Lower Bridge Rd. Travel about 10 miles and turn left on Holmes Rd. Travel 2.2 miles to the entrance road on the right. Turn in and go a short distance to a gate. This gate is unlocked but needs to be closed behind you. Travel another 5 miles to Alder Springs.  FROM SISTERS From Sisters travel 5 miles east on Hwy 126. Turn left on Holmes Rd. Travel about a mile and a half to a “T” in the road. Take a right and go 6.5 miles to milepost 7. Turn left onto the entrance road to Alder Springs.
 
Habitat and Birds:  Riparian Habitat, cliffs and open dry brush habitat.  Associated with the cliffs are Golden eagles, Canyon and Rock Wrens and White Throated Swifts.  Close to the river Lazuli Buntings, Dippers and Lewis’s Woodpeckers.  During migrations periods many migrants drop it.  In the upper dry areas, there are breeding sparrows (Brewer’s and Lark), Gray Flycatcher and you can find Pinyon Jays passing through.
 
Best Times to Visit: Spring, Summer, and Fall
 
Amenities:  Birding! Dispersed camping, hiking, picnicking and photography.
 
 

Whiskey Springs return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 50 A-4  DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37    Geographic Coordinates 44 28’ 09” N   121 34’ 26” W

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Location:  Travel west out of Sisters about 5 miles to Indian Ford Rd. Turn north on Indian Ford and travel just a short distance and turn left on Forest Rd. 11. Take this road about 8.5 miles and turn left on NFD 1140.  Go about 1.6 miles to the spring.

Habitat and Birds:  The surrounding forest holds Woodpeckers, Hermit, Nashville and Townsend’s Warbler, Flycatchers and Sooty Grouse.  The springs can be good for fall migrants and summer nesters.

Best Times to Visit: Spring, Summer, and Fall

Prairie Farm Springs

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 50 A-4  DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 37 F-6    Geographic Coordinates 44 33’ 16” N   121 35’ 16” W

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Location:  Travel west out of Sisters about 5 miles to Indian Ford Rd. Turn north on Indian Ford and travel just a short distance and turn left on Forest Rd. 11. Take this road about 10 miles until the pavement ends and take a left on Forest Rd. 1150 (SW Prairie Farm Cutoff)  Go 6 miles and turn left on Forest Rd. 800 (SW 6 Creek Rd.).  Go a short distance and turn right on SW Prairie Farm Rd.   Go 1.5 miles and look for a dirt road off to your right which will lead to the springs.

Habitat and Birds:  The surrounding forest holds Woodpeckers, Hermit, Nashville and Townsend’s Warbler, Flycatchers and Sooty Grouse.  The springs can be good for fall migrants and summer nesters.

Best Times to Visit: Spring, Summer, and Fall

Green Ridge return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 56 D-4  DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 36 F-5   Geographic Coordinates (Hawkwatch Trailhead) 44 32’ 02” N   121 36’ 11” W           (Hawkwatch Survey Site) 44 32’ 13” N   121 36’ 13” W 

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Location:  Take Hgwy. 20 west of Sisters 6 miles (one mile east of Black Butte Ranch) to the Forest Rd.(FR) 11 Jct.  Go north on FR 11 for 10 miles to end of pavement.  At the end of pavement bear left on FR 1150 for 7 miles.  Follow signs to Green Ridge Lookout.  Turn left on FR 1154 also follow lookout sign.  Go for 1 mile to FR 1140 jct.  also lookout sign Go left on FR 1140 for approx 1/4 mile to 600 road jct. ( the first jct.)  Go right on 600 RD for approx 1 mile.  There will be a parking spot on the right in old clear-cut marked with blue ribbon.  If you go to the top of the ridge you have gone too far.  The trail to the site 1/4 mile goes to the north and is well marked with blue ribbon.  When the ribbon stops you are there.  The migrating birds will be flying north to south on your left, your right , or straight overhead depending on the winds.  To explore more of this ridge, purchase a Deschutes Nat. Forest Map from any Forest Service Office.   
Habitat and Birds:  Upland forest of pines and fir.  During the fall migration (September and October) large numbers of raptors migrate over from rival Bonny Butte to the north.  ECAS monitors this migration each year.  The surrounding forest holds woodpeckers, Hermit, Nashville and Townsend’s Warbler, flycatchers and Sooty Grouse.
 

Camp Sherman return to the top

Geographic Coordinates44 27’ 36” N   121 38’ 36” W,  Lake Creek Lodge Geographic Coordinates 44 26’ 42” N   121 39’ 13” W, Candle Creek Campground Geographic Coordinates 44 31’ 24” N   121 37’ 58” W, Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery Geographic Coordinates 44 31’ 24” N   121 37’ 58” W   DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 56 A-4    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 42 A-5

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Best Times to Visit: Spring and summer.
 
Habitat:  Riparian and River corridor
 
General Birds in Area: forest birds, neo-tropic migrants and hummingbirds.  Make sure you stop at the Bridge in Camp Sherman and follow the trails on both sides of the river downstream.  American Dippers are always present at the bridge and there is plenty of bird activity along the river.  Lake Creek Lodge has a trail and hummingbird feeders.  Stop in at the lodge and ask to use the trails and hike the area.  Listen for the Olive-sided Flycatchers and Western Wood- Pewees at Lake Creek Lodge.  MacGillivray's Warblers like the trail along the river here.
 
Location: To find Camp Sherman, from Sisters, drive west on Hwy 20/126 for 9.3 miles, turn right on to Road 14.  Drive north on Road 14 for 2.7 miles and the road will fork.  Take the left fork (the right fork will get you to Camp Sherman too but it's less interesting) and travel 2.1 miles to Forest Road 1419 (1/2 mile past the fork, you will find Lake Creek Lodge).  Turn right and travel 1/2 mile to Camp Sherman.  It is approximately 35 miles from Bend to Camp Sherman.  To find Wizard Falls Fish  Hatchery, travel north from Camp Sherman on Forest Road 14 for 4.6 miles and look for road 1400/640 to the left.  Take this road and cross the river to the fish hatchery.  To find Candle Creek Campground, continue past the turnoff to Wizard falls on road 14 until you come to Bridge 99 (Lower Bridge).  This is about 2.8 miles past the Wizard Falls Fish Hatchery Road.  Cross the Metolius River and the road becomes Road 12.   Travel 1/2 mile and you will see a 4-way intersection.  Veer to the right (this keeps you on Rd 12).  About 1/4 of a mile past the 4-way you will cross Abbott Creek.  After crossing, look for the signs to Candle Creek Campground.
 
Amenities:  Birding! Car camping, hiking, photography and picnicking.  Campsites with restrooms.  There is access to numerous trailheads with opportunities for backpacking.  
 

Abbott Butte return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 56 D-3  DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 36 F-4   Geographic Coordinates   44.5582N   121.7107W

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Location:  To find Abbott Butte, from Sisters, drive west on Hwy 20/126 for 9.3 miles, turn right on to Road 14 (follow the signs to Camp Sherman).  Drive north on Road 14 for 2.7 miles and the road will fork.  Take the left fork which is Road 1419 (the right fork will get you to Camp Sherman) and travel 2.1 miles to the intersection of Forest Road 1419 and Road 1216 (SW Camp Sherman Road).  Continue north without turning and you will be on Forest Road 1420.  Go 3.6 miles to Forest Road 12.   Turn right and go 1.5 miles.  Turn left on the 800 Road.  Explore this road as far as your vehicle permits.  You can make a loop around Abbott Butte by staying right at each intersection and returning to Forest Road 12 (use a good map here).  If you aren't that adventurous, return to Forest Road 12 after exploring Road 800.  Continue north on Road 12 for 1.2 miles and turn left on Forest Road 1280.  Bird this road as it loops around Abbott Butte.  Reverse your course to return to Camp Sherman or Sisters.   
 
Habitat and Birds:  Upland forest of pines and fir with many burned areas and clear-cuts.  The surrounding forest holds woodpeckers (Black-backed, Lewis's, American Three-toed, and more), warblers (Hermit, Nashville and Townsend’s),  flycatchers (Olive-sided, Dusky, Hammond's, Pacific-Slope) and Sooty Grouse.  This is a good area for Lazuli Bunting.
 

Black Butte   return to the top

Geographic Coordinates44 23’ 57” N   121 38’ 04” W     DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 50 A-4     DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 42 Pg A-5

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Best Times to Visit: Summer and Fall  (Winter inaccessible except by skiing)
 
Habitat:  High Elevation Lakes, Subalpine Forests, and Timberline

General Birds in Area: Waterfowl and Finches.
 
Location:  Black Butte Website   

Metolius Preserve return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 50 A-3    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 42 A-4     Geographic Coordinates METOLIUS PRESERVE N. KIOSK - 44 26’ 48” N   121 40’ 48”  METOLIUS PRESERVE S. KIOSK - 44 26’ 01” N   121 41’ 54” W

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Location:  For maps, directions, and information, go to The Deschutes Basin Land Trust Website    TO SOUTH FORK KIOSK FROM SISTERS Drive 10.6 miles west of Sisters on Hwy 126/20. Take a right on Forest Rd. 2064 (Warm Springs Rd.). Travel 2.6 miles on 2064. Turn right on Forest Rd. 800. Go ¼ mile and turn right on Forest Rd. 810. Go ¼ mile to the kiosk. Maps are available here.  TO NORTH FORK KIOSK FROM SISTERS, Drive 9.8 miles west of Sisters. Take a right on Rd. 14 (Camp Sherman). Travel 2.6 miles until you come to a “Y”. Stay left and go 2.2 miles. Turn left on Forest Rd. 1216. Drive 1.4 miles and take a left on Forest Rd. 600. Drive ¼ mile to the kiosk. Maps are available here.
 
Habitat and Birds:  Upland forest of Pines and fur.  This is a prime birding spot that holds most of the upland forest birds.  White Headed and Pileated Woodpeckers (close to north fork of Lake Creek) are fairly easy to see.  Both Sooty Grouse and Ruffed Grouse can be found.  This is a fantastic area.  Unusual strays that are more common to the east have been found here in the summer.  A list of species can be found at The Deschutes Basin Land Trust Website 

Round Lake return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 50 A-3    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 42 A-3     Geographic Coordinates 44 26’ 37” N   121 47’ 24” W 

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Location: From Sisters, drive west on Hwy 20/126 for 13.2 miles.  Turn right on Forest Road 1210.  Travel 1/4 mile and turn left on the Round Lake Rd. (this is still Road 1210).   Travel just under 5 miles and look for Forest Road 600 on your left.  Take 600 3/4 of a mile to the trailhead for the lake.

Best Times to Visit: Late Spring, Summer, Fall

Habitat and Birds:  The burns close to Round Lake have been a good location for Black backed and Three Toed Woodpecker.  Lazuli Buntings have taken to the burnt open areas and Sooty Grouse and Mountain Quail can be found.

Suttle Lake return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 50 A-3    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 42 A-4     Geographic Coordinates 44 27’ 04” N   121 05’ 53” W

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Location: From Sisters, drive west on Hwy 20/126 for 13.2 miles.  Best Times to Visit: All seasons

General Birds in Area: Water birds, raptors, mountian warblers, and woodpeckers
 
(This area is in the Santiam Christmas Bird Count Circle)
 
Location: From Sisters, drive west on Hwy 20/126, turn left at the first Suttle Lake turn, Suttle Lake Campgrounds.  It is approximately 35 miles from Bend to Suttle Lake.
 
Amenities:  Birding! Car camping, hiking, picnicking and photography.  The campsites have restrooms.  Suttle Lake is a resort area and has a small restaurant, boating, cabins for rent, etc.  There is a nice hiking trail that goes around Suttle Lake.  Blue Lake is near Suttle Lake and part of Blue Lake is in Corbett State Park.
 
Habitat and Birds:  Large Lake surrounded by forest.  The lake holds wildfowl.  And the surrounding forest holds most of the local woodpeckers and Pygmy Owl
 
 

Jefferson Wilderness Trail Heads return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 50 A-3    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 42 A-3     Geographic Coordinates 44 27’ 04” N   121 05’ 53” W
 
Location: Leave Sisters west on Hwy 20/126, turn right on Road 12.  Take Road 12 to Road 1234.  Follow signs.  To Round Lake, follow signs from Road 12 to Road 1210.
 
Amenities:  Birding! There is car camping at Round Lake and the campsite has a restroom.  Hiking, photography, and backpacking.  The trailhead at Jack Lake has a restroom.
 
Habitat and Birds:  High elevation forest.  The burns close to Round Lake have been a good location for Black backed and Three Toed Woodpecker.  Lazuli Buntings have taken to the burnt open areas and Sooty Grouse and Mountain Quail can be found.

Corbett Snow Park and Adjacent Forest Service Road

return to the top

DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 50 A-3    DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 42 A-3    Geographic Coordinates 44 25’ 14” N   121 47’ 28” W 

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Best Times to Visit: Late Spring, Summer and Fall
 
Habitat: Mountain Ponds and Marshes, Pine and Fir Forests
 
General Birds in Area: High Mountain birds  (This area is in the Santiam Christmas Bird Count Circle) 
 
Location: From Sisters west on Hwy 20/126 past Suttle Lake.  Turn left at signs to Corbett Sno Park.  Continue through parking lot to a dirt road, Forest Service Road #800, and then follow Road #800 to multiple, small beautiful lakes.
 
Amenities:  Birding, car camping, hiking, photography, snow shoeing and cross country skiing.  There is a restroom at the Sno Park.

Olallie Lake   return to the top

Geographic Coordinates44 48’ 20” N   121 47’ 07” W   and Jefferson Park   44 42’ 44” N   121 48’ 15” W  Jefferson Park Trailhead 44 42’ 24” N   121 52’ 29” W  DeLorme (copyright 2001) Pg 56 B-2   DeLorme (copyright 2008) Pg 36 C-4 

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Best Times to Visit: Summer and Fall  (Winter inaccessible except by skiing)
 
Habitat:  High Elevation Lakes, Subalpine Forests, and Timberline

General Birds in Area: Waterfowl and Finches.
 
Location: From Bend, drive to Sisters, and then stay on Hwy 20/126 to Hwy 22 to Detroit.  Turn right on Road 46 for 17.5 miles (follow signs to Breitenbush Hot Springs Resort).  Turn right on Road 4690 and travel for 8.1miles (Road 4690 turns into a gravel road after 6miles) then turn right on Road 4220.  Follow Road 4220 for 6 miles to Olallie Lake.  To locate the Jefferson Park trailhead, travel about 10 miles east of Detroit and turn north on Forest Road 2243.  Take this road 7.4 miles to the parking area at the trailhead.  The park is a 5 mile hike in wilderness areas so make sure proper preparations are made. 
 
To get back to Detroit, you can either go back the same way you came or you can continue on Road 4220 and make a loop out of the drive.  Continuing on the loop back to Road 4690 on Road 4220, the road becomes very rough.  You must have a high clearance vehicle.  This way is not recommended unless you like rocky, slow roads, it is scenic though!
 
Amenities:  Birding, car camping at some of the smaller lakes, hiking, and photography.  There are some campsites with restrooms.  Paul Dennis Mt. Hood National Forest Campground is right on the shore of Olallie Lake.  There are tent sites, and both cabins and yurts for rent. There are numerous small lakes and ponds if you continue on Road 4220.  Olallie Lake is a water source, so swimming is not allowed.  At Triangle Lake there is a horse camp. Horseshoe Lake was my favorite.
 
Disclaimer:  There may be many more amenities at some areas, and some of them may not be open at times in others.  We have tried to be as accurate as we could!  It is best to always take a couple of good, detailed maps with you.