Lower Price Canyon photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
The lower portion of Price Canyon in Carbon County follow US-6 along the Price River along the floor of the canyon.  The sometimes steep cliffs are interspersed with canyons, ravines, and in some places rolling hillsides covered with a  variety of habitats including: shrubsteppe, mixed oak woodlands, juniper woodlands, and various coniferous woodlands, dominated by Ponderosa pine.  Some small deciduous patches of aspen and cottonwood may be found along the river along with willow for some riparian habitat.  Most birding int he canyon is done by car, with few birders stopping to explore along the road.  It can often be loud making for a hard time hearing birds.  You can venture into some of the side canyons for more dense habitat and to get away form traffic.

Birding:
There are only a handful of checklists form the canyon.  This lower stretch is often hard to bird in, but if you make your way into a small side canyon you might be able to find a few things.  Species like ROCK WREN can be found on the cliffs, and CANYON WREN are probably also present.  Along the river during the summer months FOX and SONG SPARROW along with YELLOW WARBLER might be tracked down.  There are probably AMERICAN DIPPER in the river, but there are no reports.  Various waterfowl have been reported, but I think some of this is actually from higher up the canyon in a different county where the river flows across wide open spaces littered with beaver dams making large ponds.  The habitat in the canyon in Carbon County doe not have nay of this.  COMMON RAVEN and RED-TAILED HAWK are seen on a regular basis as are BLACK-BILLED MAGPIE and AMERICAN ROBIN.  GOLDEN EAGLE may be seen soaring over the ridge year round, while BALD EAGLE are present in the winter months.

Directions:
From the on ramp at Exit 240 on US-191/6 in Price, head north on US-191 for 8.4 miles till you reach the mouth of the canyon.  From here you can continue another 9-10 miles in Carbon County in the lower portion of Price Canyon along US-191/6.

Price Canyon Recreation Area photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
The Price Canyon Recreation Area, which is administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), offers visitors a chance to enjoy cooler temperatures and the shade of large ponderosa pine trees during the summer.  The recreation area is located on a ridge high above Price Canyon.  The entrance road, a scenic overlook accessible by automobile, and a hiking trail, provide excellent views of rugged canyon country. Amenities include large, well-spaced campsites are available.  Facilities at the campground include picnic tables, fire pits, vault toilets, trash receptacles, and parking spaces. The Price Canyon Recreation Area is a U.S. Fee Area.  A nominal fee of $8 is charge for overnight camping and reservation of the group picnic areas. As a side note, lightning frequently strikes the ridge tops near the campground.  Avoid open, exposed areas when lightning is a possibility. The road is closed in the winter. The dry hillsides here and canyon walls are accentuated by mixed oak woodland and conifer forest dominated by Ponderosa pines and a small mix of juniper woodlands.

Birding:
Birding along the road to the top passing through the forest you should be able to track down birds like DUSKY FLYCATCHER, PLUMBEOUS and WARBLER VIREO, both RED-BREASTED and WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCH, ORANGE-CROWNED, VIRGINIA'S, and YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER, and both SPOTTED and GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE.  One of the specialty species here is GRACE'S WARBLER which is probably a regular breeder, but goes unnoticed since birders don't visit that often.  I have a feeling GRAY VIREO is probably also regularly occurring, and PYGMY NUTHATCH probably are found int he general vicinity as well. Spending some time looking here and all 3 of these might actually be regular breeders. As you get higher in the forest things like WESTERN TANAGER, CASSIN'S FINCH, RED CROSSBILL, and CLARK'S NUTCRACKER can all be found.

Directions:
From the on ramp at Exit 240 on US-191/6 in Price, head north on US-191 for 15.7 miles till you reach the turn off to Price Canyon Recreation Area Road on your left.  Turn here and you can follow the road 3.1 miles to the top and several parking areas, camping sites, and picnic tables.

The Castle Gate photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
The Castle Gate is a rock formation near the mouth of Price Canyon. This formation features two sheer sandstone walls on either side of the Price River, which appear to open like a giant gate as travelers approach this narrow section of the canyon. The hot spot here includes Bear Canyon on the southwest side of the highway, which is the best location to bird int he area.  A small road winds up the canyon and it can be walked passing through a variety of habitats including mixed oak woodland, aspen, and conifer.  Birders rarely stop in Price Canyon, which really has some potentially amazing birding sites--like the Castle Gate.

Birding:
Given the sparse habitat in the area and limited birder visits there isn't a lot of data here.  The habitat in lower Bear Canyon should hold SPOTTED TOWHEE year round, with LAZULI BUNTING, BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK, and AMERICAN GOLDFINCH during the warmer months.  I would assume VIRGINIA'S WARBLER probably breed here.  ROCK and CANYON WREN can probably be found on the cliffs year round. During the summer months looking to the sky WHITE-THROATED SWIFT and VIOLET-GREEN SWALLOW likely ride the currents here.  Keep an eye out for raptors like GOLDEN EAGLE and even OSPREY along the river here.  Higher up the canyon as the habitat become more forest species typical of aspen and conifer forest should be present as well. With a few more checklists from other times of the year, a better picture of the birding here can be put together.
Directions:
From the on ramp at Exit 240 on US-191/6 in Price, head north on US-191 for 11.7 miles till you reach Bear Canyon on your left and the Castle Gate on your right.

Recapture Reservoir photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
At 6,100 feet in elevation, Recapture Reservoir lies in the shadow of the Abajo Mountains to the west.  The once large reservoir has seen its water level dwindle in recent years, and currently the reservoir may only be 3-4 football fields long.  Surrounded by canyons covered in pinyon juniper woodland, and Ponderosa pine, the shorelines have a desert feel too them.  The juniper habitat on the east side of the reservoir is very thick.  When the water is higher, a wetland habitat is often found near the inlet at the back of the reservoir, while there are usually plenty of beaches and sandbar habitat as well.

Birding:
In this part of the state Recapture was the biggest open body of water east of the Colorado--but now with it's receding water level, its days as a waterbird migrant trap might be numbered.  Historically in late March through May the lake attracted a variety of waterbirds.  Notably more than 20 species of waterfowl have been observed here including WOOD DUCK, BLUE_WINGED TEAL, GREATER SCAUP, and HOODED MERGANSER.  Diving birds like COMMON LOON and WESTERN GREBE are usually present as well.  A decent shorebird list has built up with most species being reported just once or a few times. SNOWY PLOVER, MARBLED GODWIT, LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER, and both RED-NECKED and WILSON'S PHALAROPE have all been observed.  BONAPARTE'S and FRANKLIN'S GULL have been seen during migration along with CALIFORNIA and RING-BILLED GULL. A spring wears on and breeders arrive its not uncommon to see large numbers of WHITE-THROATED SWIFT and VIOLET-GREEN SWALLOW soaring near the dam.  The juniper along the east side are usually good for a number of passerine species including both GRAY and DUSKY FLYCATCHER, BLACK-THROATED GRAY-WARBLER, and JUNIPER TITMOUSE. Other specie that are reported form here include BUSHTIT, GRAY VIREO, PINYON JAY, and one report of a LEWIS'S WOODPECKER.  The area list spans over 100 species and on a late spring day you can have a very productive morning of birding here.

Directions:
From the intersection of Main and Center Streets in Blanding, take Center Street/U-191 east for 1 block then continue to follow it as it turns north for 4.2 miles across Recapture Dam.  After the dam take the first left.  At .2 miles you can turn left and follow the road down to the water here.  You can also continue straight around the backside of the reservoir on this road.

Abajo Mountains North Side photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
After you pass Dalton Springs you are on Road 101 wrapping around the north slope of the Abajos.  Passing through various habitats, including shrubsteppe, juniper woodland, oak woodland, aspen, and conifer from 7,500' to around 8,500' in elevation.  These mountains are one of the most underbirded ranges in the state and the distributions of species here is widely unknown.  Along the drive there are various side roads, campgrounds, lakes, and places to look for birds.  You can pull off in any number of places and walk the road, as well as wandering into the forest.  In order to get a better picture of the status and distribution of birds in the area, this location along with others along Road 101 on the north slope have been split out into their own locations. A nice drive out of Monticello and you can bird Dalton Springs, Monticello Lake, here along Road 101 on the slope, and end up on the west at Foy Lake.

Birding:
Whenever I find myself in Monticello a quick drive west into the mountains has become a traditions.  The only issue is most of the time its in the spring, so I never get to see what the summers are like up here.  The road along the north slope takes you through a ton of great habitats, allowing for plenty of birding opportunities and a variety of species.  Often looking to the skies you will find raptors soaring--RED-TAILED, COOPER'S, and SHARP-SHINNED HAWK are all see with some frequency, while TURKEY VULTURE are a common sight.  I have heard reports of both NORTHERN GOSHAWK and GOLDEN EAGLE as well.  Along the road, you can often find WILD TURKEY, while MOUNTAIN and WESTERN BLUEBIRD sit on snags along the road.  Various woodpeckers, and corvids can be seen, while sparrows, warblers, and flycatcher are probably present in various habits during the summer.  These underbirded mountains need some love from birders, and the summer probably not only provides escape from the heat in the desert below, but also a chance to make some birding discoveries in the area.

Directions:
From the intersection of 200 South and Main Street/US-191 in Monticello, head west on 200 south for .3 miles.  Turn left onto Abajo Drive, which after .4 miles turns into Creek Road heading west into the mountains.  After 4.3 miles you will pass Dalton Springs Campground and head northwest around the north slope.  The next 6 miles along the north slope along Road 101 are all part of this hot spot.

Foy Lake photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
Foy Lake is a small (maybe 5 acre) lake, nestled into the mountains on the north slope of the Abajos.  With steep hillsides covered in mixed Aspen, conifer, and oak woodlands rising to the south the imposing mountains loom over the small body of water.  To the west, oak gives way to mixed juniper woodlands; while a mix of mostly oak, aspen and juniper gently slope down to the north.  The edge of the lake is bordered by cattails, giving it marshy sections, while several species of large shrubs at the base of the slopes provide a riparian habitat. A pit toilet is available, as well as camping.  In order to get a better picture of the status and distribution of birds in the area, this location along with others along Road 101 on the north slope have been split out into their own locations. A nice drive out of Monticello and you can bird Dalton Springs, Monticello Lake, Road 101 along the slope, and end up on the west here at Foy Lake.

Birding:
Foy Lake is a little further drive back into the mountains, but the birding seems to be a little more productive here than at nearby Monticello Lake, given the proximity to the range of habitats.  Various waterfowl may be present once the water is ice free in the spring. CANADA GEESE and MALLARD can usually be found, while other waterbird migrants like REDHEAD and PIED-BILLED GREBE might be present.  The surrounding hills can provide numerous corvids, including STELLER'S JAY, WESTERN SCRUB-JAY, BLACK-BILLED MAGPIE, COMMON RAVEN, and even CLARK'S NUTCRACKER.  Not a whole lot of birders ever make it here in to the Abajos, and the area is in generally unknown to birders.  Lots of things to be discovered in the area, with status and distributions of mountain species in this part of the state being largely undocumented.  There are virtually no reports form birders here in the summer months, so what actually might be here is up for debate.

Directions:
From the intersection of 200 South and Main Street/US-191 in Monticello, head west on 200 south for .3 miles.  Turn left onto Abajo Drive, which after .4 miles turns into Creek Road heading west into the mountains.  Continue another 9.3 miles, and then stay left at the fork going another 1.1 mile till you reach Foy Lake.

Monticello Lake photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
Monticello Lake is a small 5 acre lake on the north slope of the Abajos, surrounded by mixed oak and aspen woodlands.  The open slopes are dominated by this habitat, while the peaks of the Abajos linger to the south. Conifer stands mixed in nearby, along with riparian habitat along Spring Creek to the east, provide a variety of habitats.  There is a dirt road along the west side of the lake, along with a pit toilet.  Access is limited to when the snow melts in the spring, and when it arrives again in the fall.  Typically by the time the lake is accessible the ice is gone. In order to get a better picture of the status and distribution of birds in the area, this location along with others along Road 101 on the north slope have been split out into their own locations. A nice drive out of Monticello and you can bird Dalton Springs, this lake, Road 101 along the slope, and end up on the west at Foy Lake.

Birding:
In the past people have birded Monticello Lake while birding the North Slope of the Abajos, but the new hot spot was only just created in 2015.  The birding in the area looks like it would be awesome during the summer given the great range of habitats here.  The actual lake is so small that there are never a ton of birds on it, with CANADA GEESE and MALLARDS usually present when the water is open.  Other waterbirds will show up form time to time during migration, including EARED GREBE.  The surrounding open habitat usually has a few MOUNTAIN and WESTERN BLUEBIRDS, while WILD TURKEY are occasionally seen on the road nearby.  Looking at the nearby habitat I would assume you can pick up YELLOW WARBLER, LAZULI BUNTING, and DUSKY FLYCATCHER along nearby Spring Creek.  The hills to the south are going to have your regular mountain fair including WARBLING VIREO, HERMIT THRUSH, CHIPPING SPARROW, WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE and other Aspen specialists.  The coniferous portions should have a variety of finches, woodpeckers, etc.  Birders don't tend to make it down here in the summer, so what might actually be here is still pretty wide open of discussion.  If you find yourself in Monticello in June or July do yourself a favor and make your way in to the Abajos and see what you can find!

Directions:
From the intersection of 200 South and Main Street/US-191 in Monticello, head west on 200 south for .3 miles.  Turn left onto Abajo Drive, which after .4 miles turns into Creek Road heading west into the mountains.  Continue another 7.1 miles till you reach Monticello Lake on your right.

Lodge Pole Campground from Google Street View

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Description:
Aspen and mixed conifer forest dominate the habitat here, with mountain meadows and various montane riparian habitat.  The campground has 55 camp sites as well as 2 group sites and can be reserved in advance.  It is ran by a concessionaire and closed int he winter.  A store and other facilities are on site as well.  Daniel's Creek "flows" down canyon from here creating wet meadows and some montane riparian habitat.  Several trails lead up into the hills and the surrounding habitat.  There are also numerous access points to the forest via nearby forest service roads.

Birding:
Birders typically don't trek here in the winter.  I'm not sure if there are feeders, but if there were, they could attract some good high elevation species in search of food.  Summer is the ideal time to visit to get away form the hot valleys and enjoy the mountains.  The summit is really a tourist destination for OHV users, but the surrounding forest provides plenty of birding opportunities.  Form June through September you will be able to find the species typical of the aspen habitat in the area like: RED-NAPED SAPSUCKER, WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE, DUSKY FLYCATCHER, WARBLING VIREO, HOUSE WREN, HERMIT THRUSH, YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER, CHIPPING SPARROW, and WESTERN TANAGER. In the meadows and sage flats you can expect to see MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRD, SAGE THRASHER, VESPER SPARROW, and BREWER'S SPARROW.  If you make your way into the forest where there are pine you will come across PINE SISKIN, CASSIN'S FINCH, MOUNTAIN CHICKADEE, and RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH.  The area is really great for birding and fairly typical of most similar habitat in the area.  If you  are looking to explore some place new, the side roads here might make a good day trip.

Directions:
From the intersection of Main and Center Streets in Heber, follow Main Street / US-40 south for 16.6 miles up Daniel's Canyon till you reach the campground on your right.

Daniel's Summit from Google Street View

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Description:
Daniel's Summit has become a popular winter destination for snowmobilers, with the Summit Lodge catering to this niche.  During the summer months OHV and horse riding is a popular activity replacing the winter sports here.  A restaurant and gift shop are available if you have any food or drink needs.  The Uintah National Forest can be accessed to the south and north here, while Lodge Pole Campground sits just down canyon.  Aspen and mixed conifer forest dominate the habitat here, with mountain meadows and various montane riparian habitat.  At the summit the lodge sits on the southwest side of the highway while a number of private residences sit to the northeast.   A wet pasture at the lodge is the extent of the other habitat here.  There is a forest service road accessible about 1/4 miles south that follows Hobble Creek to the west  behind where the lodge is.  The habitat here is shrubsteppe with forest rising off to the sides of the meadows and flats.  Various forest roads can be accessed from the area providing great opportunities to get away from the main road.  If you are headed to Strawberry Reservoir you will pass the summit--so it might be worth a short stop to check things out!

Birding:
Birders typically don't trek here in the winter.  I'm not sure if there are feeders, but if there were, they could attract some good high elevation species in search of food.  Summer is the ideal time to visit to get away form the hot valleys and enjoy the mountains.  The summit is really a tourist destination for OHV users, but the surrounding forest provides plenty of birding opportunities.  Form June through September you will be able to find the species typical of the aspen habitat in the area like: RED-NAPED SAPSUCKER, WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE, DUSKY FLYCATCHER, WARBLING VIREO, HOUSE WREN, HERMIT THRUSH, YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER, CHIPPING SPARROW, and WESTERN TANAGER. In the meadows and sage flats you can expect to see MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRD, SAGE THRASHER, VESPER SPARROW, and BREWER'S SPARROW.  If you make your way into the forest where there are pine you will come across PINE SISKIN, CASSIN'S FINCH, MOUNTAIN CHICKADEE, and RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH.  The area is really great for birding and fairly typical of most similar habitat in the area.  If you  are looking to explore some place new, the side roads here might make a good day trip.

Directions:
From the intersection of Main and Center Streets in Heber, follow Main Street / US-40 south for 17.4 miles up Daniel's Canyon till you reach the summit and lodge on your right.

Copperton Park from Google Street View

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Description:
Copperton Park is a lush tree covered park in the middle of tiny Copperton.  The park is lined with large deciduous and coniferous trees, as well as a number of smaller trees as well.  The southern edge of the park has a playground, basketball courts, and tennis courts.  The rest of the park is open spaces, but dominated by the large old trees here.  A walking path loops through the park, while sidewalk surrounds it.  There are neighborhoods on 3 sides while a ravine is to the south.  In an otherwise obscure town the park is a very interesting habitat.

Birding:
Copperton Park is one of those places where if more birders went, the list for the area would be a lot bigger.  It absolutely would act as a migrant trap in the spring and fall, while it has great winter habitat for mountain species.  The summer months are likely slower, but most of the year there is some decent birding here.  The only issue is that it is just out of the way on the west side of the valley set back in a tiny town.  Winter visits to the park have the potential to turn up some good birds. Both GREAT HORNED and BARN OWL have been found roosting here in the thick tree cover, while RED-NAPED SAPSUCKER, HAIRY & DOWNY WOODPECKER, and NORTHERN FLICKER have all been reported.  MOUNTAIN CHICKADEE, RUBY-CROWNED KINGLET, TOWNSEND'S SOLITAIRE, CASSIN'S FINCH, and PINE SISKIN have all been observed here.  During migration it's no surprise that WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE, WESTERN TANAGER, and BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK have been found.  COMMON NIGHTHAWK have been reported in mid-summer as a bonus.  This park absolutely is underbirded and potentially is a super hot spot during migration.  It would be very interesting to see what really passes through in May and September.

Directions:
From the intersection of Bacchus Highway and New Bingham Highway, take New Bingham Highway 1.9 miles west into Copperton.  Turn left onto Apex Road and go .2 miles. The road turns 90 degrees right here and becomes Hillcrest Street. Go .2 miles till you reach the parking lot on your left.

Mountain Dell Canyon from Google Street View

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Description:
For 5.2 miles Mountain Dell Canyon follows Clear Creek along SR-65 from Little Dell Reservoir to Big Mountain Pass.  The canyon bottom is a lush riparian habitat dominated by cottonwood and other deciduous trees.  The shrubsteppe and mixed oak covered hillsides line the canyon walls extending up into the hills on both sides.  As you ascend past the Affleck Park Campground about 1/2 way to Big Mountain Pass, the road becomes windier with several switchbacks.  The habitat also changes when large stands of Aspen become a dominant part of the south side of the canyon.  Small patches of coniferous trees dot the landscape, while some cliff habitat joins the scenery on the north side.  There is often some confusion with regards as to what Mountain Dell Canyon actually encompasses.  The area has been referred to as East Canyon, Upper Emigration Canyon, and Mountain Dell Canyon in the past.  Maps show Mountain Dell Canyon starting below Little Dell Reservoir, but don't specifically list a name for the area above the reservoir.  Over time this name has fallen into place, and may or may not be geographically correct.

Birding:
Mountain Dell Canyon is a beautiful short drive on the way to Big Mountain Pass.  The birding isn't phenomenal, but it can be very good.  There are a few very specific species that you will find on almost any trip birding here in the summer months.  Both HERMIT and SWAINSON'S THRUSH can usually be heard at dusk, while YELLOW WARBLER is a common sight.  Both GREEN-TAILED and SPOTTED TOWHEE are expected, and CHIPPING SPARROW are in no short supply.  SONG and FOX SPARROW can usually be turned up while a colorful contingent of species are often encountered including: WESTERN TANAGER, BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK, LAZULI BUNTING, and AMERICAN GOLDFINCH.  Almost any trip here will produce that list of species, while with a little work you may turn up ORANGE-CROWNED and MACGILLIVRAY'S WARBLER--and even VIRGINIA'S.  GRAY CATBIRD have been reported, as have AMERICAN DIPPER on the creek. DUSKY FLYCATCHER are occasionally encountered higher up, while RED-NAPED SAPSUCKER might be found in the aspen patches.  The canyon is also particularly good for owling.  FLAMMULATED OWL and NORTHERN SAW-WHET OWL can often be found in the summer months with some searching.  GREAT HORNED and LONG-EARED OWL have both been observed as well.  COMMON POORWILL can be heard at night, but are much harder to pick out.  The road is closed from mid-November, usually till about May.  It depends on how much snow is present.  The canyon can often be a popular evening drive so it can be busy in the summer, but usually not too bad.  It is a popular spot for bikers, and at night deer are often on the road coming to water, so be very careful on the windy road.

Directions:
From I-80 exit 134 take SR-65 north for 2.9 miles past Little Dell Reservoir.  Once you pass the reservoir you enter the canyon.  It continues another 5.2 miles till you reach Big Mountain Pass.

Upper Beaver Canyon from Google Street View

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Description:
The lower stretch of the upper canyon starts at Mahogany Cover Rec Site Campground where the habitat is a mixed juniper and oak woodland along the montane riparian corridor on the Beaver River.  Cliffs rise form the canyon floor and some talus slopes and rock slides can be found along the road.  A ponderosa forest and mid elevation mixed conifer forest on the south side of the road eventually mix with aspen woodland as you gain elevation. Lush mountain meadows can be found in low areas where the canyon floor widens and the river slowly tumbles by. Side roads lead to various canyons, and deeper into the mountains away form the highway. Three Creeks Reservoir and Puffer Lake add a high elevation lake habitat to the mix, while the Eagle Point Ski Resort adds some open terrain in between the trees on the mountainside just below the summit.  The drive here is beautiful, and worth the trip into the mountains alone!

Birding:
Most birders visit here in the summer months--although the ski resort here would allow for winter birding if you were inclined--I would imagine ROSY-FINCH flocks could be found here if there were feeders present.  During the summer months though the high elevations here provide relief form the heat in the valleys below--and the bird life changes dramatically from below.  Finches like RED CROSSBILL, PINE SISKIN, and CASSIN'S FINCH are common while PINE GROSBEAK are occasionally seen.  WESTERN TANAGER, WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW, YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER, GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE, and HERMIT THRUSH are easy finds along the road.  STELLER'S JAY and CLARK'S NUTCRACKER can both be found here, while MOUNTAIN CHICKADEE, RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH, and RUBY-CROWNED KINGLET are easy finds in the forest.  Looking to the sky you might see a soaring GOLDEN EAGLE or RED-TAILED HAWK; and along the river SPOTTED SANDPIPER and AMERICAN DIPPER are both likely to be found.  If you find yourself here on the scenic byway, please share your sightings--not many birders find themselves here so you might discover something great!

Directions:
From the Intersecton of Main Street and 200 North in Beaver, head east on 200 North for 3.6 miles till you reach the mouth of Beaver Canyon.  Continueon the road up the canyon 7.5 miles till you reach the S-curve and the Mahogany Cove Rec Site Campground. The hot spot begins here and continues approximately 11 miles past Eagle Point Ski Resort.

Lower Beaver Canyon from Google Street View

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Description:
The lower 7 miles of Beaver Canyon below the S curve pass predominantly through mixed oak woodland and mixed juniper woodland as the road follows the Beaver River.  The habitat along the river is a lush montane riparian habitat providing a refreshing element to the dry canyon.  Cliff habitat along with a mixed conifer forest  border the southern edge of the road as you get closer to the S curve providing a nice mix of mid-elevation mountain habitat in the lower part of the canyon.  There are various pullouts, trails, camp sites, and side roads/canyons on the way up.  At the S curve a small dirt road leads to an old wooden structure along the river to the east of the road.  Below the curve is some type of property with various buildings--I don't recall if this is a private residence, or some type of buildings related to forestry/management.  Above the S-Curve where the lower portion of the canyon ends is Mahogany Cove Rec Site Campground with a small loop and handful of camp sites.

Birding:
Birding is easy along the road here--and best during the summer months.  You can stop at various points hop out of the car and spend a few moments before moving on.  Because the habitat is mostly the same you will find a similar mixture of species as you move up the road.  Near the S-curve things change slightly with the start of a Ponderosa and mixed conifer woodland so you will get some higher elevation species as well.  Species typical of the lower canyon include BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD, WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE, WARBLING VIREO, YELLOW WARBLER, SPOTTED TOWHEE, and AMERICAN ROBIN.  You can also expect to find a few other species typical of the mix of oak, juniper and riparian, including: BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK, LAZULI BUNTING, PLUMBEOUS VIREO,  and CHIPPING SPARROW.  As you move up canyon and near the pines you will almost certainly find WESTERN TANAGER, CORDILLERAN FLYCATCHER, and MOUNTAIN CHICKADEE.  PINE SISKIN and CASSIN'S FINCH are also likely here given the great habitat.  In the cliffs be sure to listen for CANYON WREN, while WHITE-THROATED SWIFT might be high along skyline with the CLIFF and VIOLET-GREEN SWALLOWS.  And although there are not reports of AMERICAN DIPPER from the creek, I would imagine with enough looking you could probably track one down.

Directions:
From the Intersect on of Main Street and 200 North in Beaver, head east on 200 North for 3.6 miles till you reach the mouth of Beaver Canyon.  The hot spot follows the road up the canyon 7.5 miles till you reach the S-curve and the Mahogany Cove Rec Site Campground.

The Western Abajos from Google Maps User

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Description:
The west half of the Abajo or "Blue" Mountains is definitely an under-birded location.  The east half which has easy access form Monticello rarely sees much in terms of birds, so the west end which is only accessible via dirt road really has a lot to be discovered.  In terms of what the area consists of--it is generally everything west of the main spine or "east group" of peaks which consists of Twin Peaks East, Abajo Peak and West Mountain.  From here the mountains level out  a bit and various canyons dot the landscape for 6-10 miles going west. Then the "west group" of peaks including Horse Mountain, Seven Sisters Buttes South, and Mormon Pasture Mountain can be found.  This area has commonly been referred to as "The Gooseberry".  The mountains/buttes/mesas continue to the west and include a number of smaller notable "peaks" as the mountains turn into canyon lands and desert.  You could literally create dozens of hot spots in the area if trying to come up with a solid list of what is in the area--but birders generally don't visit so there are a lot of unknowns here.  The habitat in the lower reaches of the mountains are mostly juniper woodlands with some oak as well.  Various shrubsteppe covered hills can be found, while small riparian lined creeks are not uncommon i the draws and canyons.  As you travel higher mixed aspen and coniferous woodland can be found.  I am keeping this very general in hopes that others will stop in and create various points in the area in the future, and hopefully help build a better data set.

Birding:
We can assume the birding here is very similar to that on the east end of the Abajos--except with more range in habitats, likely meaning more possible species.  For the little amount of access to the east side, the west is even more isolated, and generally roads in the area are only open in the summer and fall, meaning birding is best here in June and July.  Passing through various habitats means you could see a lot of different species.  The small amount of checklists submitted to eBird show the range with species such as GRAY VIREO, GRACE'S WARBLER, WESTERN TANAGER, PYGMY NUTHATCH, BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD, and WESTERN BLUEBIRD being reported.  These high elevation sites could potentially hold some very interesting birds given their remoteness, birders just don't make it to them.  Do Hermit Warbler and Hepatic Tanager creep into southern Utah here?  How many pairs of Spotted Owls breed here?  Are there Rosy-Finches above the tree line?  Could Brown-capped nest here?  What is the status of Pine Grosbeak? Northern Goshawk? American Three-toed Woodpecker?  These are questions that birders can answer by visiting areas like this and submitting a checklist to eBird!

Directions:
Here are the directons into "The Gooseberry". From the intersection of Main and Center Street in Blanding head south on Main Street for 3.9 miles.  Turn right onto SR-95 and travel 6.3 miles west. At this point you will turn right on to Cottonwood Road and go 5.3 miles before taking a slight left onto Elk Mountain Road for another 2.7 miles.  Here turn right onto North Cottonwood Road and continue 17.5 miles into the hear of the mountains. From here you can travel east of west on Gooseberry Road.  If you go west you end up in the Horse Mountain area eventually.  If you go east there are a number of small canyons, ridges, peaks, and other high elevation sites accessible via various roads.  The area is there for your exploring!

Upper Falls Park from Google Street View

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Description:
Just up the road from Bridal Veils Falls, is Upper Falls Park.  The mixed oak woodland along the road borders the riparian habitat along the river.  The mountains to the south are covered in aspen and conifers, in between cliffs.  The falls are just to the west of here while a small dam on the river, controls the flow here.

Birding:
There isn't a ton of data for this location which is only open to the public form April through October.  This is really the best time in the mountains anyways.  Along the river keep an eye and an ear out for AMERICAN DIPPER which love the fast flowing water here.  WARBLING VIREO, YELLOW WARBLER, and SWAINSON'S THRUSH are usually hear, and often seen in the trees.  BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK, BULLOCK'S ORIOLE, and AMERICAN GOLDFINCH add some color to the trees.  Looking skyward you will probably see WHITE-THROATED SWIFT and VIOLET-GREEN SWALLOW.  Since BLACK SWIFT have been known to use the area, it is a possibility from here as well.  FOX SPARROW, GRAY CATBIRD, and WESTERN TANAGER might also be found while you're looking around.  During the winter if you are passing by, BALD EAGLE are often found in this area.

Directions:
From I-15 exit 272 in Orem for 800 North head east on 800 North for 3.6 miles.  Take the ramp on your left onto US-189/Provo Canyon Road and go another 4.8 miles till you reach the right turn down to the park.

The Hole from Bing Birds Eye View

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Description:
If you've ever driven to Chepeta Lake int he High Uinta's, you've drive through "The Hole".  Growing up I would often hike here with my family, and learned quite a bit about birds in these hills.  At the pull off to The Hole, a small creek meanders at the bottom of the ravine, under towering conifers and aspen.  The habitat in the hole down stream (east) from this spot is mostly aspen with some conifer mixed in. Sagebrush covered hillsides directly to the south lead to another large patch of aspen directly south of the parking area.  To the north the hill is steep as the road above switchbacks before heading higher up the mountain.  From where the pull off is, directly west across the road is a gate and and old  logging road.  From here you can hike about a mile up the mountain into large open meadows, and beautiful aspen covered hillsides.  At least 7 springs dot these hillsides providing ample water sources for wildlife. Elk Spring, Rock Spring, Mugwump Spring, Grits Spring, Ray Spring, Center Fork Spring, and Lightning Killed Bull Spring form a border about 1.5 miles wide and a top to bottom on the mountain.  These hills rarely if never see birders and are a great getaway from people to enjoy nature by yourself.

Birding:
By the time eBird came around I didn't spend as much time in this area, and only have one checklist int he past decade.  But the birding here is your typical Uinta Mountain birding, and it's some of my favorite.  Hiking up the trail across the road you're going to find AMERICAN THREE-TOED WOODPECKERS and have the possibility of both RUFFED and DUSKY GROUSE.  PINE GROSBEAK and CASSIN'S FINCHES are often found along the trail here.  STELLER'S JAY are common while occasionally CLARK'S NUTCRACKERS will fly overhead.  WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCH can be found here with the more common RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH.  Along the creek by the parking area MACGILLIVRAY'S WARBLER, WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW, and HERMIT THRUSH are usually present.  Although you might never find yourself in The Hole, it's one of those places that if you visit, you'll want to go back to!

Directions:
From US-40 on the east Side of Roosevelt, turn left onto 5750 East.  Go north staying on this road for 10.1 miles.  Here is will turn into White Rocks Highway for the next 4 miles, before becoming Farm Creek Road for another 6.4 miles. At this point the pavement ends and you need to take the immediate left onto FR-117.  Follow this for 5.4 miles until you reach the pull off on your right--this is "The Hole".

Upper Yellow Fork Canyon from Google Maps User

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Description:
To access this area, start in Yellow Fork Canyon and walk about a mile through mixed oak and juniper habitat. You will eventually come to a white gate and see a trail running up a steep hill to the right (north). Take this or make your own trail and climb to the ridge line that runs in between Yellow Fork and Butterfield Canyon. Follow the ridge line trail, which will lead you into mid elevation conifer and mixed aspen forest and give you a different set of birds.

Birding:
Birding here is always best during the spring, summer, and fall months. Winter tends to be quite slow and access to the ridge line trail is made difficult by snow. During spring and fall migration, the warbler list can be quite impressive: VIRGINIA'S, YELLOW, YELLOW-RUMPED, MACGILLIVRAY'S, BLACK-THROATED GRAY, NASHVILLE, and TOWNSEND'S WARBLERS are found here without much difficulty.

Flycatcher species in the lower portions of the hike include Willow (along the stream) and GRAY FLYCATCHER. OLIVE-SIDED, HAMMOND'S and CORDILLERAN FLYCATCHERS are usually found in the higher elevations, while DUSKY FLYCATCHER and WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE are found throughout the whole area. I usually make my own trails and hike the Juniper covered hillsides on the north side of the Yellow Fork trail and then make my way up the ridge between the two canyons. While in the Juniper habitat I almost always see BLACK-THROATED GRAY WARBLER, GRAY FLYCATCHER, JUNIPER TITMOUSE, and MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRD as well as some of the other more common species.

Other common birds in the lower area include: PLUMBEOUS and WARBLING VIREO, BUSHTIT, GREEN-TAILED and SPOTTED TOWHEE, WESTERN TANAGER, and BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK.  Once on the ridge line trail, you have an open view of both sides of each canyon. Hawks and vultures are soaring above you (sometimes at eye level) looking for prey.
RED-TAILED, SWAINSON'S SHARP-CHINNED, and COOPER'S HAWK have been seen here along with GOLDEN EAGLE and TURKEY VULTURE. Besides the raptors, VIOLET-GREEN SWALLOW are also seen in good numbers above the canyons.

Habitat along the first part of this trail is mostly sagebrush. VESPER, CHIPPING, and BREWER'S SPARROW can be seen all along here. On the Butterfield side, look and listen for OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER perched on the tops of tall dead trees.  Keep walking the trail until you reach the Pine and Aspen habitat. In this area you can see many high elevation birds such as
MOUNTAIN CHICKADEE, STELLER'S JAY, RED-NAPED SAPSUCKER, HAIRY WOODPECKER, RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH, BROWN CREEPER, both SWAINSON'S and HERMIT THRUSH, and HAMMOND'S, CORDILLERAN, and OLIVE-SIDED FLYATCHER.

The most notable sighting I have had here was a flock of 65+ PINYON JAYS that flew over me heading south just before I got onto the ridge.

Directions:
From I-15 Exit 291 at 12300 south in Draper head west for 6.3 miles as the road becomes 12600 south.  Turn Left on to Main Street in Herriman and follow it as it heads southwest for 2 miles. Turn Left on to 6400 West/Rose Canyon Road for 1 mile.  Turn right--this is a continuation of Rose Canyon Road.  After .8 miles you will arrive at a pond to your left at "The Cove At Herriman Springs". From here the road continues 2.6 miles till the trailhead at Yellow Fork Canyon is on your right. From here it is a mile hike up the trail to the upper canyon section.

Thanks to Kendall Watkins for this location submission.

Yankee Meadows from Google Maps User

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Description:
Yankee Meadow is a popular 53-acre lake located east of Parowan, Utah.  The lake is generally not accessible during the winter, except by snowmobile. About the time the lake become accessible in April, the ice is starting to come off.  There are two Forest Service campgrounds in the area. Camping is not allowed in the immediate vicinity of the lake. A restroom and gravel launch ramp are available at the lake. There are no garbage facilities at the lake so please pack out what you pack in.

Birding:
Birding is best here during the summer months when the reservoir is accessible.  Species typical of higher elevations in the southern part of the state are common here, including: HAIRY WOODPECKER, CLARK'S NUTCRACKER, MOUNTAIN CHICKADEE, HERMIT THRUSH, and CASSIN'S FINCH.  There are very few checklists for the area, given where it is and the small number of birders in the area.  The actual species list is probably much higher than that in eBird, but it needs a little help in the checklist department.

Directions:
From the intersection of Main and Center Streets in Parawon head east for .3 miles on Center Street. Continue straight across 3rd East as the road veers south and becomes SR-143. Go 3.3 miles then turn left onto Bowery Creek Road.  Go 1.4 miles, then continue onto Yankee Road for another 3.1 miles.  Take the slight right onto FR-049 and go another 2.4 miles to the reservoir.

Yellowpine Campground from Google Maps

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Description:
Not to be confused with Yellow Pine Campground on the Mirror Lake Highway, Yellowpine is located at 7,500' in elevation  in a scenic, heavily forested canyon next to Rock Creek and is surrounded by mountains. Large Ponderosa pine trees shade the campground, and aspens dot the landscape. Rock Creek Trail begins nearby for equestrian use and connects with the wheelchair-accessible, paved interpretive nature trail along  Rock Creek.  Shrubsteppe, mountain meadows, and riparian habitat are also present creating a nice mix of mid-elevation habitat typical of many south slope birding locations.

Birding:
As with most Uintah Mountain birding locations, June through September are prime for birding here.  Species typical of the Uinta's can be found here including CLARK's NUTCRACKER, STELLER'S JAY, and OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER.  The mid-elevation site mean you will get a mix of species you wouldn't get at higher elevations, including birds like: WARBLING VIREO, CEDAR WAXWING, YELLOW WARBLER, WESTERN MEADOWLARK, and BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK.  Along the river you can find AMERICAN DIPPER--and WILD TURKEY have been reported from here as well.

Directions:
 From Highway 40 in Duchesne, Utah, turn north onto Highway 87. Go 15 miles to Mountain Home turnoff. Continue 2.5 miles toward Mountain Home. Turn left at the Rock Creek Store. Proceed about 15 miles to Yellowpine.

Yellowstone Group Campground from Bing Birds Eye View

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Description:
Yellowstone Group Campground lies along its pretty namesake, The Yellowstone River in an aspen forest dotted with mixed oak and Ponderosa pines on the south slope of the Uinta Mountains. The campground can accommodate up to 80 people, and 8 vehicles. The surrounding habitat includes shrubsteppe, and of course the riparian habitat with a willow component just east of the campground. The areas to the south and east are part of the Uintah and Ouray Indian Reservation.

Birding:
To date there isn't enough information to be really helpful for telling you what and when you might see here.  Ironically the 2 checklists for this location are from January and April, when getting here might be difficult due to the roads.  Like most Uinta Mountains campgrounds and birding locations, summer is the optimal time to go--between June and September.  GRAY JAY can be found here, and other species like MOUNTAIN CHICKADEE, RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH, and TOWNSEND'S SOLITAIRE have been recorded.  The habitat likely is home to YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER, HOUSE WREN, DARK-EYED JUNCO, DUSKY FLYCATCHER, RED-NAPED SAPSUCKER, and other species typical of mid to high elevation mountain sites in northern Utah.  If you happen to find yourself in the area, please help build this otherwise small list by submitting a checklist!

Directions:
From the intersection of US-40 and Center Street in Duchesne, go north on Center Street for 15.6 miles. Turn left onto 21000 West and go 8 miles heading north. Turn right and go .4 miles, crossing a creek.  Turn left onto Yellowstone Road and go 4.2 miles.  Stay right onto FR-119 and go another 2.5 miles till you reach the pull off to the campground on your right.