[obol] RECENT PHOTOS: Pine grosbeak, A3 Toe WP, and North Cascade scenic photos

[khanh tran]

Hi all,

Here are my recent photos of this 4th of July weekend of birding/hiking in the North Cascade areas of Washington.  My partner and I hiked the trails leading to the alpine areas of Slate Peak, Cutthroat and Heather's Pass.  It was a wonderful trip!!

Highlights included: Several Pine Grosbeaks, White winged Crossbills, White tailed Ptarmigans, Spruce Grouse, Boreal chickadees, Gray crowned Rosyfinches and one Great gray Owl.  You can see my trip report on Tweeters.

I have included more scenic pictures to encourage ALL to explore the amazing areas.  The birds will come en route and you won't be disappointed.  The scenic hikes range from 5-12 miles round trip and are relatively easy with little to moderate gains in elevations.  Slate Peak is a short hike (about 400 yards) from the parking lot and it is the highest road you can drive on in Washington, reaching an elevation of almost 7200 feet!!  Views are beautiful!!

Hope you have a GREAT SUMMER by exploring the wonderful Northwest!!!

http://www.pbase.com/spruce_grouse/recent_photos&page=all

Good birding,

Khanh Tran (Portland, Oregon)