Holistic Birding
Ironwood Drive and Environs
Overview
Sterling Forest State Park comprises 21,935.08 acres of nearly pristine natural refuge amidst of one of the nation's most densely populated areas, a remarkable piece of woodland, a watershed for millions, and a tremendous outdoor recreation area. This unbroken deep-forest habitat is important for the survival of many resident and migratory species, including black bear, a variety of hawks and songbirds, and many rare invertebrates and plants.
Birding Ironwood Drive
Drive slowly along the road listening and looking for birds. There are numerous pull offs as well as a fairly wide shoulder. Ironwood Drive has hosted over 170 bird species including the much coveted Cerulean Warbler, along with breeding Hooded Warblers.
There are also trails leading off of the road and if you drive to to the end of the road, you will enter a circle parking area. Pull along the side of the circle to park. (Please note that for eBirding purposes, this parking area and the powerline cut is a separate hotspot.) After birding the parking area, duck under the chain and head to your right.
You will cross over a small stream (hopefully someone has put a board up!) and as you approach an intersection you can either go straight into the forest, or make a right and then a left up to the powercut or right-of-way. This powerline cut can be extremely productive in May and June. This used to be THE spot for Golden-winged Warblers, but unfortunately, it has been several years since these birds have been observed here.
After birding the powerline you can either head back to your car, or make a sharp left as you descend and bird along the water.
This area is thick with ticks, be sure to wear permethrin treated clothing or use DEET products to protect yourself.
Visitor Information
Facilities
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Restroom at the nearby Sterling Forest Visitor Center.
Accessibility
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Trails are primarily dirt and can be rocky and muddy in places.
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Powercut trail is rocky and steep.
For recent bird sightings and more information, visit eBird.
Ironwood power cut eBird page.
