Lucky Peak Station

Four-wheel or All-wheel-drive higher-clearance vehicles required. BE PREPARED!! This un-maintained dirt road is narrow, steep and winding with tight curves and washed out ruts. Please limit number of vehicles and do not drive the road during rain or within 1 hour of rain showers.  Be advised that we do not have the ability to tow/pull your vehicle out of ruts.

From the intersection of Hwy 21 and I-84:, take Hwy 21 North (towards Idaho City). About 3 miles past the top of Lucky Peak Dam, turn left onto Highland Valley Road (about 3/4 mile before you get to The Hilltop Cafe) and  follow this for a total of about 6 miles to our site in the trees just below the radio tower. There are “Bird Observatory” signs at every important intersection. As you approach the peak, there is a gate. Park in the flat area to the right (beside the outhouse) and walk thru the gate and down the road for about 200 meters to our site in the trees.

View Map Directions

• Treats for the interns – we love fresh snacks, eggs, or backyard garden veggies!
• Closed-toe shoes for going on net runs and hiking up to hawk watch
• Camera
• Snacks

Songbirds

Songbird Banding at Lucky Peak is open every morning during migration
between July 16 – October 15 weather allowing.

You may arrive any time between 40 minutes after sunrise and 5 hours after sunrise, but the action is usually best in the first half of the morning. Plan to stay at least 1 hour to have the best experience.

Check sunrise times online before your visit

Raptors

Diurnal Raptor activities begin August 25 and run through the end of October from 10am to roughly 6pm. September and the first week of October are the best times to visit for high numbers and species diversity.

Owls

Banding begins on the night of August 28th and continues until October 28th, but mid-September to mid-October are best.

For Flammulated Owls plan on visiting in early/mid September (to maximize your chances). Northern Saw-whet Owls peak from mid-September to mid-October. We do our first net run about an hour after sunset, and then every 45-90 minutes after that.

You may wish to arrive before sunset to get acquainted with the terrain and introduce yourself to the crews. Please bring a headlamp or flashlight.

Our main banding site is partially handicap accessible.
The ground around the banding station is fairly level and sandy, so is accessible to most walkers and wheelchairs with assistance. Hawk watch is not fully accessible.

Our station is behind a locked gate that can be opened to allow vehicle or van access. Please email us ahead of time to schedule your visit so that we can be ready to assist with any access needs upon your arrival at the site. If not pre-arranged, one member of your party may walk to camp and request assistance from one of the crew members when you arrive.