This is an easy stroll on a combination of paved path and dirt road through a variety of habitats supporting up to 20 species, including local birds and, especially in spring and summer, a number of seasonal visitors. From Mammoth Creek Park West, follow the Town Loop east through the tunnel and continue downstream along Mammoth Creek. In the pines, look for Steller's jays, mountain chickadees, nuthatches, and dark-eyed juncos. In the snags near the bridge that crosses to the Hayden Cabin, look for Cassin's finches, pine siskins, and northern flickers. Scan for nesting holes used by tree swallows and mountain bluebirds. Check the willows along the creek for migratory warblers. When you come to the dirt road, leave the path and follow the road, staying along the creek. The open Great Basin sagebrush country on your left is excellent habitat for Brewer's sparrows and green-tailed towhees. When the road comes again to the Town Loop Path, loop back toward the Hayden Cabin. Cross the bridge and explore the open meadows around the old structures, watching for flycatchers and maybe a western wood peewee. On your way back to Mammoth Creek Park West scan the sky to the south, toward the Sherwin Range, for red-tailed hawks riding the thermals.
Birding on the Town Loop
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Experience Checklist
- A good eye
- Binoculars
- Insect repellent
- Local bird guide
- Notebook
- Spotting Scope
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen/lip protector
- Wildlife-identification guide
Public Services
Experience Information
- Trail Length
- 1.2 miles
- Trail Surface
- Mixed
- Duration
- Less than 4 hours
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This experience begins at Mammoth Creek Park West.
- Get driving directions to Mammoth Creek Park East
- Get driving directions to Mammoth Creek Park West
- Get public-transit options*
*Note that not all facilities are accessible via public transit.
Related Trails
Sierra Park Connector
0.3 mi
- Surface: Asphalt
Town Loop
7.8 mi
- Surface: Asphalt
Related Trails
Trail | Length (mi) | Surface | Activities and Services |
---|---|---|---|
Sierra Park Connector | 0.3 | Asphalt | |
Town Loop | 7.8 | Asphalt |
Related Destinations
Hayden Cabin Museum
- Hours/Season: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., daily | Summer
Mammoth Creek Park East
- Hours/Season: N/A | Fall Spring Summer
Mammoth Creek Park West
- Hours/Season: Day use only | Year Round
Related Destinations
Destination | Activities and Services |
---|---|
Hayden Cabin Museum | |
Mammoth Creek Park East | |
Mammoth Creek Park West |