Field Trip: Castle Valley Road to Castle Pass
Thursday, June 16, 2022
Leaders: Diane and Steve Rose : sfasfieldtrips5@gmail.com 8:00 AM to Early Afternoon
The 1.5 mile track to Castle Pass offers the chance to see some of the most sought-after birds of the high Sierra, such as Black- backed Woodpecker, Williamson’s Sapsucker, and Pine Grosbeak. The beautiful Castle Valley meadow and rugged Castle Peak provide the scenic highlights. Some of the other birds that we may see include Rufous, Anna’s, and Calliope Hummingbirds; Olive-sided Flycatcher; Western Wood-Pewee; Clark’s Nutcracker; Evening Grosbeak; Cassin’s Finch; Red Crossbill; White-crowned (oriantha), Fox (Thick-billed) and Lincoln’s Sparrows; Green-tailed Towhee; Orange-crowned, Nashville, and Wilson’s Warblers; Western Tanager; and Lazuli Bunting.
This walk is moderately strenuous. The dirt track begins at 7,300 feet elevation and ascends to 7,800 feet at the pass. But we will be walking at a “birding pace”, which means we will be moving slowly and making many stops. Although the track provides relatively even footing, consider using hiking sticks for increased stability on the steeper or rocky sections. Bring binoculars, snacks, water, and lunch if you want it. Prepare for changeable mountain weather by layering your clothing and bringing rain protection. Plan to be birding until the early afternoon.
This trip is limited to six participants plus two leaders. Participants must register online and sign our liability waiver at the meeting point. Each person must register separately by sending an email with their contact information to: sfasfieldtrips5@gmail.com. No drop-ins please. Please do not sign up unless you are committed to attending.