We entered Mt. Ranier National Park through the west gate and climbed steadily up to Paradise, the highest point here you can drive in the park. Douglas fir, western red cedar and other gorgeous trees lined the edge of the road. A canyon of tall trees. The weather grew progressively cloudy as we neared Paradise. Once there we saw a parking lot nearly full and lots of people. A small meadow beside the parking lot was a nice place to look.
We learned quickly that the Stellar's Jay liked to forarge near people, most specifically where people are eating all fresco.
Nearby, perched on top of a small balsam, a Canada Jay (formerly grey jay) kept a weary eye before flying to the taller trees across the parking lot.
We saw a few other birds in the area: American Robin and Yellow-rumped Warbler.
We drive to the east entrance and walked the Grove of Patriarchs trail where we heard more Stellar's Jays fussing in the very tall tree tops.
Not too birdy but we have a great opportunity to observe two local Jay species.
So far it looks like a great trip. Now, think about following the same route next Spring. Malheur is a gold mine in April. As are various places in the Cascade Mountains. The woodpeckers you want to find could be there.
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