Hello,

I'm driving from Kirkland to Spokane on Friday, and I would like to take a
side trip up Manastash Creek, out of Ellensburg, en route. I haven't been
there before, and I had a few questions.

First, what is the condition of the unpaved parts of the road to Buck
Meadows? Is the road open?

Second, will I have any trouble staying on the right route to Buck
Meadows? I have the maps and directions in Hal Opperman's A Birder's Guide to
Washington. Is that sufficient?

Third, approximately how long should I figure on it taking me, from I-90 to
Buck Meadows? Just the driving time - I'll add on any birding stops I
might make.

The birds I'm looking for are Williamson's Sapsucker, Red-naped Sapsucker,
Gray Jay, Townsend's Solitaire, Red Crossbill, Veery, and maybe Vesper
Sparrow and Ruffed Grouse. Any advice on specific places to look for any of
these species?

Thanks very much for any advice.

Regards,

Barry Brugman
Kirkland, WA