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Birchim Canyon Birding

Overview

Birchim Canyon Hike

“Riparian area very good for migrants and vagrants. Pine Creek and Rock Creek join just E. of US 395, then flow through this short, narrow canyon to the confluence with the Owens River near a DWP power plant. Look for Canyon Wrens on the rocky north canyon wall.”

- Eastern Sierra Audubon Society

Black-chinned hummingbird and blue grosbeak photos by Susan Teefy

How long is this hike?

This is a nice, short walk in a shady area.

How do I get there?

Going north out of Bishop (12 mi from the "Y" - junction of US 395 and US 6; 1.7 mi north of Pine Cr. Rd.) the canyon is seen on the east side of the highway. There is room to park off the northbound lanes; move well off of the roadway on the right side. Access is through a gate. A dirt road - not accessible to private cars - runs the length of the canyon, a distance of about 1 mile. (NO access from the Power Plant end - please access from 395.)

Are dogs allowed?

No dogs for this trip, please.

Red-winged blackbird (all bird photos by Susan Teefy)

What birds might we see and hear?

  • Black-chinned hummingbird

  • Blue grosbeak

  • Flicker

  • Kestrel

  • Spotted towhee

  • Bewick’s wren

  • Cliff swallow

  • Great blue heron

  • Rock wren

  • Downy woodpecker

  • Red-winged blackbird

Bewick’s wren

Great blue heron