This retreat is a unique opportunity to learn about Sage-Grouse in Harney County. Your tour begins with a family-style dinner at 6:30 PM (sharp) at the Frenchglen Hotel and an overnight stay at the individual houses behind the historic Frenchglen Hotel. The following morning, the tour departs at 4 AM for a 1.5 hour trip to a lek on Roaring Springs Ranch. Over 20 male Sage-Grouse may be strutting and you’ll have 2 hours out of the vehicle for viewing, photographs, etc. Roaring Springs Ranch Biologist Andrew Shields leads this tour and shares results of Sage-Grouse research being conducted to learn more about these unique birds. The tour concludes back in Frenchglen at 10 AM, leaving plenty of time for a full afternoon of birding in the Blitzen Valley. This is an amazing opportunity to see and hear Sage-Grouse in their natural setting! You are responsible for lunches and transportation to Frenchglen. The price is for a double occupancy. The tour may be cancelled at the last minute if access to the lek isn't possible due to weather.
CATLOW VALLEY SAGE GROUSE OVERNIGHT RETREAT | Friday 4.6.18 | 6:30 PM - 10 AM
Full refunds before March 23. No refunds on or after March 23.
All tours depart from Burns High School. TRANSPORTATION IS PROVIDED – no caravanning or driving your own vehicles except for the llama tours and the overnight Sage-Grouse excursion that begins in Frenchglen. Please arrive early, check in at Bird Central (located in the gymnasium at Burns High School), and be prepared with your own amenities. Most tours travel to remote areas. Bring snacks, lunch and water, and dress for changing weather conditions - “fowl” weather gear and sturdy shoes or boots are advised. There may be long stretches between restroom stops and the birds will only be as visible as they choose! Tours depart at the scheduled time.
Participants with limited mobility should contact the Harney County Chamber of Commerce prior to booking tours to assure accessibility and accommodations. Must be 10 years or older to participate unless otherwise noted in the tour description as “family friendly." Pre-registration is REQUIRED.