T:Boreal Owl trip info

Several folks have queried me regarding a proposed itinerary for the Okanogan
Highlands Boreal Owl trip.

Here is some general info, followed by a list of places and hikes which have
been memorable for me in the past at this season.

Meet at 7 pm Friday evening 29 Sept. at Cedars Inn in Okanogan. Caravan from
there towards Tiffany Springs Cpgr. via Road 37 and 39. Alternative is to go to
this campground in daylight and meet at 8:30 pm at "Baldy Pass" which is on
Forest Road 37 located at D1 on p. 114 of the DeLorme.. This area may also be
reached from Winthrop via Forest Road 37. All roads are excellent quality
gravel. Ordinary vehicles are okay. Car camping at Tiffany Springs but with no
facilities. Bring your own water. Temps may range from 20F to 65F. Snown can
occur in early Oct. Boots are advised. Some hunter orange is a good idea,
either hat or vest, as we will encounter grouse hunters.

Things to do, generally south to north on Road 39:

1-Walk around Roger Lake for Spruce Grouse, N. Pygmy-Owl, Boreal Chickadee,
White-winged Crossbill.

2-Freezeout Ridge and Tiffany Mtn. Migrating hawks and eagles are likely.
Ptarmigan are rare but possible on this mountain. A relatively easy walk to the
summit. Lapland Longspurs are also likely.

3-Twentymile Meadows. A short walk to a classic sub boreal meadowland where
scrubby birch and potentilla provide good moose habitat. Spruce Grouse also.

4-Tiffany Lake and Middle Tiffany Mtn. A beautiful subalpine lake, with Lyall's
larch likely in autumn gold.

5-Thunder Mtn burn. Should have woodpeckers.

6-Long Swamp. More chances for boreal species listed above.

7-Chopaka Mtn hike. Best chance for ptarmigan on this trip. Also migrating
raptors.

Beginners most welcome on this trip!
Andy Stepniewski
Wapato Wa