Bonney Butte HawkWatch, OR

August 27 – October 31
Daily 9:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M. Weather Permitting

About the Site

Since 1994, crews of volunteers have watched thousands of raptors migrate past iconic Mt. Hood at the Bonney Butte HawkWatch. In partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, HawkWatch International conducts this long-term research to keep a critical pulse on the health of raptor populations and the broader environment in Oregon. As the only site of its kind in the Pacific Northwest, The Bonney Butte HawkWatch also provides an incredible opportunity to experience the magic of migration firsthand.

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Long-term Raptor
Count Data

Total Hours Counting

Total Migrants Counted

Average Count/Year

FAQ’s

Why are you counting raptors?

HawkWatch International has monitored the fall migration of raptors at the Bonney Butte HawkWatch since 1994. The goal is to monitor long-term trends in populations of raptors along the Pacific Coast Flyway. Because raptors sit at the top of the food chain, they are more sensitive to environmental changes. This makes them excellent biological indicators of ecosystem health. Through migration counts at our network of sites, we’re able to keep a pulse on the health of raptor populations and our shared environment. In addition to conducting our own conservation work, we share our data with state and federal agencies to help guide their conservation efforts.

What will I see at the site?

Up to 18 species of raptors can be seen at the site, including Sharp-shinned Hawks, Red-tailed Hawks, Cooper’s Hawks, Turkey Vultures, and Golden Eagles. This site also has a relatively high number of Merlins (up to 100 or more per year).

How do I get to the site?

The Bonney Butte HawkWatch is located within the Mt. Hood National Forest. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for the last 4 miles of the drive.

From Portland, head east on I-84 toward Troutdale. Take exit 16 toward Wood Village and turn right onto NE 238th Drive. Continue on NE 238th Drive, which becomes SE 242nd Drive/NE Hogan Drive. After about 3 miles, turn left onto NE Burnside Road/US-26 East and continue for 40 miles. Exit onto US-35 North toward Hood River. After 4.7 miles (just after passing over White River), turn right onto paved NF-48. After 6.8 miles, turn left onto paved NF-4890. After 3.6 miles, at a 4-way intersection, turn left onto 4-wheel drive NF-4891, following signs for Bonney Meadows. Keep right at the spur to stay on NF-4891 and after 4.2 miles (just past Bonney Meadow Campground), park in the unmarked Bonney Butte parking area on the right side of the road. Hike 0.5 miles up the old lookout tower road (walk around the gate) to the summit.

Where should I stay when I visit the site?

The Bonney Meadows Campground has six sites with a vaulted toilet for those interested in overnight stays. Mt. Hood National Forest also has numerous other camping and lodging opportunities nearby.

For those interested in hotels, there are several options in the nearby town of Government Camp, located about 25 miles from the site.

Do I need to register before I visit?

We ask that ONLY organized groups of more than 6 individuals register before coming. You can request a timeslot here: https://form.jotform.com/HawkWatchInternational/schedule-your-migration-visit

The Site at a Glance

Our Partners

The Bonney Butte HawkWatch would not be possible without the support of our partners. Thank you for investing in long-term raptor research, education, and conservation.

Join our Community of Raptor Conservationists

Curious what the crew is up to? Have questions about the local weather or the recent flight? Join our community of raptor conservationists in the Friends of Bonney Butte Facebook Group!

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