NOTICE: Mosquito Ridge Road was severely impacted during the 2022 Mosquito Fire and sustained additional damage during the record winter storms that followed. Significant re-engineering was needed to repair drainage, grading, retaining walls and road surface. The description below was written prior to the fire.
Just east of Auburn, Mosquito Ridge Road is a wonderful access to the Sierran environment. From Interstate 80, take Foresthill Road 17 miles to Mosquito Ridge Road in the town of Foresthill. Turn right. There are many convenient pull-outs along Mosquito Ridge Road, and typical Sierran birds abound. At 6.5 miles, look for a large turnout on the right, and a rocky cliff on the left from the road cut. Canyon Wrens have nested here in the cracks of the rock face. Listen for their cascading song. Violet-green Swallows have nested here as well. eBird Sightings (1 of 3 hotspots for the area)
It is 17.5 miles to Little Oak Flat, which is famous for Flammulated Owls, though they can be found beginning at mile 12 and well beyond. Stop often to listen. Northern Saw-whet Owls can be found beyond mile 20. Northern Pygmy-Owls (often during the day) and Western Screech-Owls can also be found. Spotted Owls inhabit the forests off the upper portion of the road. All owls are much easier to hear than see. Interesting mammals may be present on the road at night (black bear, ringtail, spotted skunk, gray fox, bobcat, and mountain lion have been reported). eBird Sightings
Daytime birding is also rewarding. Black Swifts can be found at Grouse Falls, though they are usually quite distant—a scope can help. To reach the falls, turn left onto Road 33 at mile 19, and it is 4.7 miles to the trailhead, and a nice half-mile hike (mosquitoes are often there too). eBird Sightings The Placer Big Trees grove at mile 25 is worth a visit. It’s the most northerly and perhaps the smallest grove of giant sequoias in the world. A nice loop can produce Pacific Wren, Hammond’s Flycatcher, and, sometimes, Pileated Woodpecker. Hermit Thrush song fills the grove, especially early and late in the day. eBird Sightings There are many additional side roads and trails to explore.
Chris Conard and Scott Hoppe
Violet-green Swallow, Image by Daniel Lee Brown