Malheur National Wildlife Refuge headquarters: There's a small natural history room here featuring mounts of birds and mammals found on the refuge. There's also a gift store and plenty of information about the refuge and surrounding natural attractions.

Central Patrol Road: Some folks call it a wasteland, but a trip down the gravel road along the Donner Und Blitzen River is well worth it. Expect to see hawks, owls, waterfowl, shorebirds, warblers and more.

Foster Flat Road: This unpaved road punches into the territory of wild horse herds, pronghorns, mule deer and jack rabbits. It also leads to the sage grouse “lek” or breeding ground.

Buena Vista Ponds: Pay attention. You can hear Virginia rails and soras in the reeds here. Sandhill cranes are usually plentiful. Watch for long-eared owls swooping along the grassland at sunset. There's also an overlook up on the hill that offers interpretive panels and a north/south view of the refuge and Steens Mountains.

Benson Pond: This is a nice area for picnicking and a short hike. Expect to see a variety of waterfowl. Also, keep watch for owls, warblers and songbirds.

Knox Pond: This is the place to see waterfowl and wading birds, such as avocets and black neck stilts.

Krumbo Reservoir: This site is open from April 28 until Nov. 1. It's popular with fishermen and birders alike. There's also a trail.

Frenchglen: This historic town is home to the historic Frenchglen Hotel. Stop in and visit.

Round Barn: Built in the late 1800s by horseman and rancher Peter French, this is a must-see. French and his fellow horseman trained horses during the winters. There's also a new visitor center nearby.

Diamond Craters Outstanding Natural Area: The area apparently was burned last summer, so it really looks volcanic these days. Pick up a self-guided tour brochure at the refuge headquarters. This is a good place to exercise, but watch out for rattlesnakes. Do take the short walk to the Malheur Maar. There's a surprise there.

On the Net: Malheur National Wildlife Refuge: http://www.fws.gov/malheur; Malheur Field Station: http://www.malheurfieldstation.org

John Scharff Migratory Bird Festival:

http://www.migratorybirdfestival.com