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.

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.

Silliman Lane looking south photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
Silliman Lane is the road that leads from the town of Green River, to the Green River WTP (waste water treatment ponds) on the south side of town.  The gravel and dirt road passes through farm land for its entirety, and is bordered on the east side by a canal.  This creates a descent riparian habitat with large cottonwood trees, various shrubs including willow, and russian olive.  A large tree line going east from the road near the south end is very thick habitat.  At the end of the road you reach the WTP on your left.

Birding:
Although birders submit lists from the WTP here on occasion, where birders generally look from is not clear.  In the past you could dangerously look from the edge of the interstate, but wanting better and safer looks we found the way tot he ponds through town--via Silliman Lane.  The lane is a great birding spot on the way into the ponds, and provides a very different habitat with the open farmland and riparian.  Various raptors might be encountered along this stretch including RED-TAILED HAWK and either SHARP-SHINNED or COOPER'S HAWK.  During the winter months DARK-EYED JUNCO along with flocks of WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW can be found.  These flock might include the rare zonotrichia found in Utah and are worth looking through.  Int he summer months WESTERN KINGBIRD, SAY'S PHOEBE, and YELLOW WARBLER can be found along the road, while the habitat looks really good for YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT and BLUE GROSBEAK.  Various migrants can probably be found in the spring and fall given the habitat.  If you are here anytime and want to check out the WTP, I highly recommend doing so via Silliman Lane and seeing what non-waterbird species you can find on your way in.

Directions:
From the intersection of SR-19 and Broadway in Green River, head south on Broadway for .2 miles. Turn left on to Green River Avenue for .3 miles. Turn right onto Airport Road for .2 miles. Here there will be a left turn onto Silliman Lane.  The lane continues for .7 miles to the Green River WTP.

Grove Creek Canyon from Google Street View

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Description:
Grove Creek Canyon is located at the extreme east end of 500 North in Pleasant Grove (Utah County).  Scrub oak, rabbit brush, sagebrush, and thickets of squawbush make up most of the habitat at the mouth of the canyon.


Birding:
The mix of bird species at Grove Creek Canyon changes with each season. Spring and summer are, by far, the most productive seasons for birding the canyon. Common spring and summer species include COOPER'S HAWK, WHITE-THROATED SWIFT, BLACK-CHINNED and BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD, a variety of FLYCATCHERS and VIREOS, HOUSE WREN, BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER, WARBLERS, CHIPPING SPARROW, WESTERN TANAGER, BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK, and LAZULI BUNTING.  COMMON POORWILL are often heard singing right at and just after dusk during summer evenings. Fall brings migrant raptors and feisty RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRDS as they make their southward migration.  Winter can be slow in the canyon, but ROSY FINCHes are sometimes seen moving in flocks along the hillsides and above the canyon.

Some of the year round species include NORTHERN FLICKER, WESTERN SCRUB-JAY, SPOTTED TOWHEE, BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEE, AMERICAN KESTREL, BLACK-BILLED MAGPIE and GOLDEN EAGLES which are regularly seen soaring above the canyon and its surrounding peaks.

Directions:
If driving south on I-15 from Salt Lake County take SR 92 (Timpanogos Highway) east to the mouth of American Fork Canyon and turn south on North Canyon Road. Follow this road south into Pleasant Grove and turn left (east) at 500 North. Follow 500 North all the way to the parking lot at the mouth of Grove Creek Canyon.  Alternatively, from State Street in Pleasant Grove head north on Canyon Road. Turn right (east) at 500 North and follow the road to the parking lot at the mouth of the canyon.

Battle Creek Canyon from Google Street View

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Description:
Battle Creek Canyon is located at the extreme east end of 200 South in Pleasant Grove (Utah County). The parking area at the mouth of the canyon is a mix of dirt and gravel. Dirt trails lead from the parking area in several directions. Crossing the foot bridge to the north, over a stream bed, leads to a small park and pavilion called Kiwanis Park. The trail straight east from the lot goes into the canyon. This trail will lead you to a nice waterfall that is about 40' high and a little less than a mile from the trail head. It is a great hike for families and small children as it follows the stream up the canyon to the waterfall with slight elevation gain. Additional trails go south from the parking lot and are primarily used by hikers and cyclists. Scrub Oak is prominent with a mix of maple and other trees.


Birding:
The mix of bird species at Battle Creek Canyon changes with each season.  Common spring and summer species include COOPER'S HAWK, WHITE-THROATED SWIFT, BLACK-CHINNED and BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD, a variety of FLYCATCHERS and VIREOS, HOUSE WREN, BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER, WARBLERS, CHIPPING SPARROW, WESTERN TANAGER, BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK, and LAZULI BUNTING.  COMMON POORWILL are often heard singing right at and just after dusk during summer evenings.

Fall brings migrant raptors and feisty RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRDS as they make their southward migration.

Winter can be slow here, but some specialty birds can be found.  The faint, high-pitched calls of BROWN CREEPER are often heard as they forage along the trunk and main branches of the mature trees around the pavilion. ROSY FINCH are sometimes seen moving in flocks along the hillsides and above the canyon.  WESTERN SCREECH and NORTHERN SAW-WHET OWL inhabit the trees at the mouth of the canyon and along the foothills during winter as well. The Saw-whets are pushed down from their preferred habitat during hard winters.

Some of the year round species include CHUKAR on the hillsides, CALIFORNIA QUAIL, NORTHERN FLICKER, WESTERN SCRUB-JAY, SPOTTED TOWHEE, BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEE, AMERICAN KESTREL, GREAT HORNED OWL and GOLDEN EAGLES which are regularly seen soaring above the canyon and its surrounding peaks.

Directions:
If driving south on I-15 from Salt Lake County take SR 92 (Timpanogos Highway) east to the mouth of American Fork Canyon and turn south on North Canyon Road. Follow this road south into Pleasant Grove and turn left (east) at 200 South. Follow 200 South all the way to the parking lot at the mouth of Battle Creek Canyon.  Alternatively, from State Street in Pleasant Grove head north on Canyon Road. Turn right (east) at 200 South and follow the road to the parking lot at the mouth of the canyon.

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.

Mosquito Cove from Google Street View

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Description:
In 2007 while looking for a place to camp while doing field work near Zion National Park I came across notes in a field notebook about "Mosquito Cove".  It appeared to be either BLM land or private land that was open to the public for camping.  Nestled against SR-9 on the north along the Virgin River on the south and between Virgin and Sprigndale, the flats were in the floodplain, surrounded by cottonwood and willow the riparian habitat was amazing.  The sand washed clearing here made for great camping, and there could easily be 50 to 100 campers here on busy weekends--especially holidays.  I've camped here at various times of the year and always found it to be dead during the weeks.  But in 2011 a large flood came through the area and ever since the gate has been closed the unofficial "campground" here is closed now.  I think a combination of people treating the land terribly (litter and refuse), and the danger presented from being i the flood plain weren't worth the risk so the state decided to lock it down.  Which is a shame because it really was some great camping--and birding.

Birding:
Although I've only submitted 6 checklists from Mosquito Cove, I probably camped here 10 to 15 times over 3 to 4 years. Exactly 34 species have been reported, and I've managed to see all of them in my combined trips--it helps that all the lists form others happened to be there with me ;)  There are several species found here regularly during the breeding season that were fairly easy to find. Notably SUMMER TANAGER was a sure thing.  BLUE GROSBEAK, ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER, LUCY'S WARBLER, CASSIN'S KIGBIRD, and HOODED ORIOLE were all found as well, along with a throng of other riparian migrants and breeders. PLUMBEOUS VIREO, LESSER GOLDFINCH, and SPOTTED TOWHEE are often present and easy to track down.  Migrant wise WESTERN TANAGER, WILSON'S WARBLER, and WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE can all be found.  Occasionally BUSHTIT make their way through the area, while various waterfowl might be seen flying past on the river--notably COMMON MERGANSER.  You can still bird the area from the road, but I don't know how much luck you will have.

Directions:
From La Verkin, take SR-9 east bound  11.4 miles till you reach the road on your right that dead ends at the fence..

21st Street Pond from Google Street View

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Description:
The pond is 29 acres with a maximum depth of 9'. Its water from the the Ogden River, which collects water from a 323 square mile watershed area. There is a controlled water outlet to help maintain the proper lake level. The riparian habitat surrounding the lake makes for an excellent habitat on the edge of Ogden.  A path follows the perimeter of the lake making for a nice easy walk.

Birding:
Not an overly popular birding site there are only a handful of checklists spread out during the year form here.  In the winter waterfowl can be found, and aside from COMMON MERGANSER, COMMON GOLDENEYE, and GADWALL, there has been WOOD DUCK observed here.  During the spring, summer, and early fall waterbirds like AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN, DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANT, and BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON might be found.  CALIFORNIA GULL are found year round, and CASPIAN TERN are present in the warmer months.  WARBLING VIREO, WESTERN KINGBIRD, YELLOW WARBLER, and BULLOCK'S ORIOLE are common summer songbirds.  There have been a couple notable finds here including a May BLACK PHOEBE, a September OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER, and a June LEAST FLYCATCHER.  AMERICAN DIPPER can be found along the river on the north side of the pond as well, while AMERICAN CROW are seen passing through the area from time to time.

Directions:
From I-15 Exit 343 in Ogden, go east for .9 miles on 2100 South till you reach the turn in for the pond on your left.

No Photo At This Time photo by Utah Birders

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Description:
Upper Sand Cove Reservoir is a small round reservoir in the canyon just outside Gunlock.  Surrounded by open desert, shrubsteppe, and cliff habitats the reservoir is a small oasis in a barren land. It smaller sister reservoir Lower Sand Cove is just down the road.  Small patches of riparian habitat are present as well, and the open water here is ice free year round.

Birding:
This small off the beaten path reservoir doesn't get a ton of visitors but if you check it out you might find something interesting.  During the winter AMERICAN WIGEON, REDHEAD, RING-NECKED DUCK, BUFFLEHEAD, COMMON GOLDENEYE, RUDDY DUCK, and HOODED MERGANSER have all been seen here.  NORTHERN HARRIER and ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK have been found during the winter months as well.  Spring migration brings shorebirds--while only AMERICAN AVOCET has been reported, other species definitely come through.  WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE, DUSKY, and GRAY FLYCATCHER have been reported during fall migration along with a variety of warblers including: MACGILLIVRAY'S, YELLOW, BLACK-THROATED GRAY, and WISLON'S.  The best bird to ever be found her though is obvious--in 2002 Rick Fridell found a KENTUCKY WARBLER here in August when the reservoir was empty and the migrants were feeding on flies and ants in the mud.

Directions:
As you are about to enter the town of Gunlock from the south--before you go over the river, take the immediate right onto Lower Sand Cover Road and drive 6.5 miles to the reservoir on your left.

South end of Boots Cox Park from Google Street View

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Description:
Boot Cox Park is a small park in the middle of St. George, that you would never know existed if you didn't stumble upon or be pointed to it by someone else.  The tiny park is surrounded on the north, east and west sides by homes--utter suburbia.  To the south are pastures that are part of a farm. In the southeast corner are tennis courts, while a small pavilion and playgrounds are just north.  The west half ant eh area north of the playground are all open grass, but the park is entirely surrounded by deciduous trees.  There have been several conifers around the north end as well as the tennis courts, but I think some may have been removed recently.  The large pasture directly south has a seep so the field is often wet.  There is a fence line separating the park form the private property, and a road that is also private going directly south form the tennis courts.  A paved path follows the perimeter of the park.

Birding:
About 5 years ago someone found a pair of VERMILION FLYCATCHERS here, and ever since this has been a regular stop for birders visiting St. George.  The flycatchers are typically found along the south edge of the park bordering the pastures to the south.  Often they are found in the trees here, along the fence line, along the road heading south or i any of the small trees or shrubs in the fields.  As many as 5 have been seen here at once--presumably a breeding pair and offspring.  Sometimes they just aren't present and may just not be here some years.  Other birds often seen here year round include BLACK PHOEBE, SAY'S PHOEBE, NORTHERN MOCKINGBIRD, and EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVE.  During the winter months WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW, YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER, and AMERICAN PIPIT can usually be found .  In the summer WESTERN KINGBIRD and BLACK-CHINNED HUMMINGBIRD can be found.  In late May migrants pass through the park and WESTERN TANAGER, BULLOCK'S ORIOLE, and BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK are all possible.  YELLOW-BELLIED SAPSUCKER and ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK have both been found here and the potential for other good migrants and over wintering birds are really good here.

Directions:
From south of St. George, take I-15 exit 6 north for .25 miles and turn right at the 1st light onto Main Street.  Go .7 miles north then turn right onto 700 south.  Go 1.1 miles--just after you go under the freeway take a right onto 900 east and go .5 miles.  The parking lot is on your right--you can also drive to the end of the road and park on the street. Alternatively, form the north you can take I-15 exit 8 and turn left on to St. George Blvd crossing the freeway for .2 miles. Turn right onto River Road and go 1.2 miles. Turn right onto 900 south and go .4 miles.  Turn left onto 900 east and make your way .2 miles to the parking lot on your right.

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.

Beryl from Google Street View

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Description:
Beryl is an unincorporated community in Iron County that was originally established as a Union Pacific Railroad siding.  Now it is more of a ghost town.  If you look on Google Maps, it looks like a city was laid out here, with perfectly rectangle blocks for streets--but there is nothing there--just sagebrush, rabbit brush, and greasewood surrounded by desert. The 1 mile by 1 mile grid does have a few birding features, like a small patch of trees in the northeast corner around some old shacks--this is where the water tower is located, and where the road crosses the tracks going north and then west. In the northeast corner of the quadrant is a small compound where someone lives, and there are about 6 or 7 small deciduous trees here as well.  If you were to go north on 800 West you would eventually reach a large farm, with a huge field on the west side of the road, several small fields on the east side of the road, and a ton of trees.  The drive is lined with them for about a 1/4 miles, and the housing area is also surrounded.  This looks like some of the best migrant trap birding i Beryl, but I am not sure who owns it, or how welcome they would be to birders, so tread lightly if you choose to go here.  In general shrubsteppe is the habitat throughout the area aside form the 3 spots mentioned above.  There are other scattered farms for miles in every direction as well.

Birding:
There aren't a lot of reasons to go to Beryl--its dusty, dry and in the middle of nowhere.  There is potentially some migrant trap possibilities here but it would be a long way out here, if there were no migrants.  Some of the breeders here are good local birds though.  SAGEBRUSH SPARROW is notably common at this locations, while BLACK-THROATED, LARK, and BREWER'S SPARROW are also found. SAGE THRASHER, WESTERN KINGBIRD, SAY'S PHOEBE, and WESTERN MEADOWLARK are also expected.  COMMON POORWILL and BURROWING OWL have been reported, while the most abundant species present is HORNED LARK.  Judging the checklists that have been submitted I am guessing that lists have been submitted from nearby juniper habitat, far from Beryl, as some of the species are directly associated with that habitat, and not the habitat found in Beryl.

Directions:
From I-15 Exit 59 in Cedar City head west on SR-56 for 35.3 miles to Beryl Junction. Turn right and go north 11.9 miles on the Beryl Highway.  At this point you are in the southeast corner of a 1 mile by 1 mile set of streets for what was Beryl.  There is nothing there currently. If you continue a mile north you will hit a crossroad.  Here if you turn left then immediately right over the tracks you will end up on 10400 north and can drive about a mile west to take a right on 800 west and head north to a farm along a tree lined drive.  Otherwise, where every you drive in the area, it is all considered Beryl.

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.

Mouth of Yellow Fork Canyon from Google Street View

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Description:
Yellow Fork Canyon is the end destination for most ravelers on Rose Canyon Road.  This trail closes to vehicles is a quick way to lose the noise of the road, and enjoy the best birding in the area quickly.  The habitat is a continuation of what's in Rose Canyon, with mixed oak and juniper woodlands being the predominant habitat type. A small creek lends some riparian habitat with willow and other shrubs present as well.  Rocky hillsides with some cliff habitat can be found, as well as some shrubsteppe on rolling hills.  The lower section of the canyon is an easy hike from the trailhead and you can quickly find yourself off trail following birds through the woods. The upper portion of the trail is about a 30 minute hike from the bottom, and this is where the habitat becomes more montane.  There is another hot spot for this location called "Yellow Fork Canyon -- Upper", and it is recommended that checklists for the upper canyon are split from the lower canyon given the differing habitats.

Birding:
The first time I came to Rose Canyon was in High School, and it was to look for JUNIPER TITMOUSE.  This was known as the closest reliable spot for this species from Salt Lake City--and it still is--after birding in Rose Canyon I continued in the less travelled Yellow Fork.  The juniper woodlands here are prime habitat and this species can be found year round along with WESTERN SCRUB-JAY, BLACK-BILLED MAGPIE, and COMMON RAVEN here.  During the breeding season BLACK-THROATED GRAY, VIRGINIA'S, YELLOW, and MACGILLIVRAY'S WARBLER, join PLUMBEOUS VIREO, DUSKY and GRAY FLYCATCHER here.  BUSHTIT are reported infrequently, and WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCH have been found here.  The bird list is essentially going to be similar to Rose Canyon, but the birding is easier and the land is public.  There are definitely more birds and a wider array here, but the specialty species remain the same.  The current list definitely has species found in the upper portion of the canyon as there is overlap in species that wouldn't normally be found in oak or juniper.  But bird both the lower and upper canyon, and create a list for both to help split things out in the future!

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.

Cherry Canyon Logging Trail from Google Street View

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Description:
Also known as "Bear Canyon", the sign at the trailhead reads "Cherry Canyon Logging Trail".  This route to the summit of Lone Peak is an easy to follow alternative to the more popular Draper Ridge and Jacobs Ladder trails. Although the route involves more elevation gain than these two more popular routes, it offers several advantages. Frequent switchbacks eliminate most of the brutally steep sections which are found on the other two trails. A much larger portion of the trail passes through coniferous forest, and the presence of a perennial spring provides a year-round water source.  The lower reaches of the trail pass through dry hillsides and mixed oak woodlands before gains in elevation pass through aspen and mid elevation conifer.  If you were to hike all the way to Lone Peak you would eventually end up above tree line on rocky crags above 11,000'.  From 4,850' at the trailhead, the trail runs for about 6 miles and goes up 6,400' in elevation to 11,253' at the very top.  This is an average of 1,070' per mile of elevation gain making this a very difficult hike.

Birding:
This post is long due to the directions.  Very few birders have submitted checklists so I won't spend too much time saying what you'll see here.  Do this hike for the hike--not the birds--the birds will come as you pass through various habitat belts and be similar to what you would see starting at the mouth of either Cottonwood Canyon and driving to the very top--only it's all on foot.  I think it's safe to say that you could easily have a 30-50 species day here anytime between mid May and September if you did the entire hike.  If you just did lower portions, you would only see the birds typical of the oak belt; and so on up through the habitats.  If you do this hike, please submit a checklist for it, and share comments in the section below.  As more lists become available the birding information will be updated here.

Directions:
From the intersection of 12300 south and 1300 east in Draper, head south on 1300 east for .2 miles. At the traffic circle take the 3rd exit onto Pioneer Road.  Follow this east for 1.1 miles. Turn right on 2000 east and go .2 miles. The road becomes Highland Drive and after about 125 yards there will be a left turn into the Orson Smith Trailhead.

And the actual hike directions taken from summitpost.org:  hike up the small dirt road, passing two large concrete vaults on the left 250 yards up the road. Approximately 100 yards beyond these vaults look for a trail heading steeply up the slopes on the right (east) side of the road. Follow this trail for 0.2 mile until it intersects the north-south Shoreline Trail at a signed 4-way junction at 5,200'.

Continue east at this junction on the trail identified as "Cherry Canyon Logging Trail". From the signed junction the trail meanders a bit and makes numerous small switchbacks as it slowly climbs through scrub and sagebrush up the lower west facing flanks of Lone Peak.

At 7,200' the trail crosses onto the Cherry Canyon (to the south) side of the ridge for a pleasant .25 mile stretch of fairly level hiking before beginning to climb again. The trail then makes a few more switchbacks but continues climbing in a generally eastward direction.

At 8,485' a spur trail, marked with a cairn, joins from the south (this spur trail traverses south .25 mile to the Draper Ridge Trail). After passing this junction the trail descends slightly and enters a forested stretch as it continues east for .3 mile, where it reaches the perennial spring at 8,440'. The spring is located in the Bear Canyon drainage.

From the spring the trail continues climbing through pines, steeply at times, turning northward for a brief period before turning back eastward as it enters the South Fork of Little Willow canyon. The trail winds through a number of large granite outcrops before arriving in an open meadow. In the trees on the right (south) side of the meadow is the Outlaw Cabin at 9,275 ft.', a small log cabin complete with a wood stove.

From the Outlaw Cabin it is possible to traverse south .25 mile and intersect the standard Draper Ridge/Jacobs Ladder trail. However, it is shorter and just as easy to continue east up the South Fork Little Willow drainage.

There is no trail beyond the Outlaw Cabin but it is a simple matter to follow the drainage east, staying on the left (north) side of the drainage as it begins rising more steeply. Near the top the drainage narrows, rimmed on the east and south by granite cliffs and spires.

Begin veering left and route find your way through the rocks. Soon after you will find yourself on the west wall of the cirque, and the summit of Lone Peak will pop into view for the first time. This is a good spot to note a few landmarks for navigation on the return, since it would be easy to incorrectly begin descending into the drainage immediately to the north, which is the North Fork of Little Willow.

From the west rim of the cirque climb over a short rise, then descend a bit as you route find your way north-east through rocks and low alpine trees. Occasional cairns may be spotted to help guide the way. Regain the ridge which slowly curves east, becoming the summit ridge of Lone Peak. This is another good spot to note a few landmarks for the return hike down.

Follow the summit ridge staying initially on the left (north), then crossing over to the south side of the ridge. The final few hundred feet to the summit involves class 3 scrambling with exposure.

Bell Canyon Gulley from Google Street View

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Description:
Bell Canyon Gulley is a small gulley that follows the course of Big Willow Creek as it winds its between neighborhoods toward Hidden Valley Golf Course. Sloping hills on either side of the creek create different habitat from the riparian section below. The upper slopes mostly consist of tall grass, but there are also fairly large patches of gambel's oak and sagebrush as well. Trails run through all these areas as well as paths that follow the creek. The gulley is mostly dry except for during runoff and following rains. Tall cottonwoods cover the sides of the creek with some thickets mixed in as well. Dog walkers can occasionally be seen on the trails here but for the most part this location receives little traffic.

Birding:
Birding is likely most productive here on both spring and fall migration as migrants would be attracted to the fairly unique habitat for the area. WESTERN TANAGER, GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE, WARBLING VIREO, LINCOLN'S SPARROW, GRAY and DUSKY FLYCATCHER  have all been seen on migration here. All 4 regularly occurring Utah HUMMINGBIRD species (CALLIOPE, RUFOUS, BROAD-TAILED, and BLACK-CHINNED) have been observed as well, the latter likely resident throughout the summer. CALIFORNIA QUAIL, SPOTTED TOWHEE, BLACK-BILLED MAGPIE, WESTERN SCRUB-JAY, and COOPER'S HAWK can be seen year-round in addition to other expected species in the area. Raptors such as AMERICAN KESTREL, and RED-TAILED HAWK, as well as GREAT HORNED and WESTERN SCREECH-OWLS have also been seen. Breeders here include species such as BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER, BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK, YELLOW WARBLER, and LAZULI BUNTING.

Directions:
From I-15, take exit 292 for 11400 S and proceed east for about 3 miles. Make a right on to 1700 E and head south for .25 miles. Make a left onto Wasatch Boulevard and continue east for .5 miles. Parking is available on the north side of the road in a large dirt lot across from highland drive. To access the gulley from here, walk down the large dirt area between neighborhoods to the trails.

North Canyon Trail photo by Stephanie Greenwood

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Description:
North Canyon Trail is located in Bountiful and is basically the "other side" of Mueller Park Trail. You can walk 4.5 miles to Rudy's Flat, or make a 13 mile loop and end up at the Mueller Park trailhead. Once you get to Rudy's Flat, the trail is kind of a saddle to Elephant Rock, without much more elevation gain. At the end of Canyon Creek drive there is a 1 mile dirt road that is very rough that leads to the trailhead. Unless you have a very rugged 4WD you'll need to park at the end of the pavement. The road is rutted and gets increasingly narrow with no turnaround. It's a nice walk, though, and you'll see lots of birds along this path in the summer. Habitat starts out with a somewhat riparian habitat with willows, spruce, and mixed oak woodland as the trail follows the creek. Further up the trail you'll encounter more of a montane environment with mature spruce trees and even a patch of mountain mahogany. The first mile and a half of the trail is a gradual ascent, and then starts to get steeper as the trail winds up the mountains. Go a few miles and you'll be rewarded with amazing views of the valley. The trail will wind in and out of habitats between scrub maple and mature pines to give you a variety of birds.

Birding:
Durig the winter, look for BLACK-CAPPED and MOUNTAIN CHICKADEES, BROWN CREEPER, GOLDEN-CROWNED KINGLET, and STELLER'S JAY. In the summer, along the first mile of road/trail you'll find numerous FOX SPARROW, SWAINSON'S THRUSH, MACGILLIVRAY'S WARBLER, BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK, ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER, and CORDILLERAN FLYCATCHER. Higher up the trail you'll find DUSKY FLYCATCHER, WESTERN TANAGER, RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH, and CASSIN'S FINCH.  Both DUSKY and RUFFED GROUSE  are also possible. NORTHERN GOSHAWK have been known to nest in nearby Mueller Park, so they are also possible. However, there are also many COOPER'S HAWK around so view your accipiters with a careful and discerning eye.

Directions:
From I-15, take the 2600 South (Woods Cross) Exit, head east on 2600 South. This curves around to Orchard Drive, heading north. Turn right (east) on to 1800 South and head east up the hill. Once you get to Bountiful Blvd, turn right, and head south to Canyon Creek Drive (about a mile) and turn left (east). At the end of this road is where North Canyon begins.

River Lane from Google Street View

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Description:
River Lane is probably the most well known (or top 2) birding location in Utah County.  River Lane follows the Spanish Fork River for a couple miles until it dumps into the south end of Utah Lake.  The first mile of road passes through agricultural and private land. Some grassland  along with riparian habitat along road edges creates an interesting mix of habitats.  Once you reach the end of the pavement and hit dirt road you will drive right on the rivers edge for about a mile to the lake.  The river is on the southside of the road with thick riparian habitat on both sides of the river, as well as on the north side of the road.  Aside from the cottonwood and other deciduous tree canopy there is a large russian olive component, as well as willow, and various other deciduous bushes and shrubs creating a thick understory.  The habitat is truly unique and everything to the south and northeast is primarily agricultural land, lake shore, or marsh.  At the end of the road, the river mouth open up and an old road follows the lake shore north.  Following this you can continue in riparian habitat as well.  Views of the lake form here add an open water habitat.  Someone created a separate hot spot for this location called River Lane -- Sandy Beach.  This is probably a good thing to take note of birds just at the end of the road.  This area is heavily used by the public for fishing, and various other activities.  Unfortunately, some people that visit don't have any respect for the area leaving their garbage, and in some instances dumping large amounts of trash here.  There have also been incidents of poaching various birds here, and dead migrants found on several occasions with obvious trauma. But the birding is incredible, and these sorts of things are the exception to what is an otherwise amazing place.

Birding:
River Lane has long been a popular migrant trap amongst Utah Birders.  From late April through May and again in August through October passerine migrants can be found in decent numbers in the riparian habitat along the road.  It has had major fallout in the past--and has had some great rarities.  There is no such thing as a bad day of birding here--some just are slower than others.  In reality you can park at one end of the road and walk the entire length and back to bird it; but usually the best method is to pick a spot, park and walk around until you feel you've birded the area good, then driving further down the road and repeating.  Usually you can make 4 or 5 stops by the time you hit the end of the road. So lets talk about the birding here.  Common residents here include RING-NECKED PHEASANT, NORTHERN HARRIER, BLACK-BILLED MAGPIE, and SONG SPARROW.  During spring migration things seem to come in waves here with a nice mix of ORANGE-CROWNED and VIRGINIA'S WARBLERS, and COMMON YELLOWTHROAT in late April.  May is by far the time of year that most birders visit.  On May 30, 2011 an incredible fallout occurred across parts of central and northern Utah, and River Lane saw its fair share of incredible sightings.  An estimated 200 WESTERN TANAGERS painted the trees, while dozens of OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHERS mingled with various empids, dozens of warblers, grosbeaks, and buntings.  Species that usually show up in minimal numbers were everywhere.  Notable spring migrants here include SAGEBRUSH SPARROW, LARK BUNTING, INDIGO BUNTING, NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH, and LONG-EARED OWL.

The breeding season although hot and muggy along the river can turn up some birds that aren't all that common elsewhere in the county or northern part of the state. GRAY CATBIRD and YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT are both found here fairly easily.  Historically YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO were reported here infrequently in the summer leading some to believe they may have nested in the area.  But in recent years they have been a no show. Another interesting bird that shows up here on the tail end of migration through the middle of June are PURPLE MARTIN.  BLUE GROSBEAK and EASTERN KINGBIRD also tend to get noticed here during the summer as well as the early fall. The summer can be a real slow time here, and birders usually stay away until August and September when things pick up again.

Fall brings all kinds of great birds--potentially even greater diversity than in the spring.  CASSIN'S VIREO, TOWNSEND'S WARBLER, NASHVILLE WARBLER, and various sparrows pop up here during fall migration. Interesting note, there are no spring records for SAVANNAH SPARROW here--only fall.  The fall rarity pool is impressive as well.  ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK, BLACK-AND-WHITE-WARBLER, YELLOW-THROATED VIREO, RED-EYED VIREO, NORTHERN PARULA, YELLOW-THROATED WARBLER, AMERICAN REDSTART, and TENNESSEE WARBLER are some of the very noteworthy species that have been observed.  It's not uncommon in spring and fall to be able to see all 6 regularly occurring swallows here in one day--and if you're lucky you can tack on the martin.  Fall also brings COMMMON NIGHTHAWKS, which are often flushed form perches while you walk the side roads in search of migrants.  The list goes on and on. A typical day here in the fall could turn up 40-50 species in just a couple hours.

The winter doesn't get quite the attention as migration, but sparrow flocks can be found along the road.  While predominantly WHITE-CROWNED SPARROWS and DARK-EYED JUNCO are found AMERICAN TREE, WHITE-THROATED, and HARRIS'S SPARROW have all been observed here.  MERLIN are also seen with some regularity in the winter months; while NORTHERN SHRIKE are rare here but fairly regular nearby on Swede Lane.

River Lane is a premier Utah birding destination.  With a location list of over 200 species this trap is the kind of place where just about any bird might show up in Utah.  Any time you pass through Springville, take an hour and swing out and bird River Lane--you might just find something great!

Directions:
From I-15 Exit 260 in Springville go west on Rte 77 for 4.2 miles.  At the stop sign turn right and go another .2 miles to River Lane.  Turn right here and you are on River Lane.  Follow this north for 1.3 miles. It will jog to the left and then right again about half way.  At the 1.3 mile mark you have to turn left onto a dirt road.  After .2 miles you're along the river and the best birding until you reach the lake.

No Photo At This Time photo by Utah Birders

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Description:
 The Painted Rocks area is located on the east side of the lake off Highway 28 between Levan and Gunnison.  This area offers a large day use area, three lane concrete boat ramp, a group campsite and 41 individual campsites with covered tables.  This campground also includes tent pads, restrooms, a garbage collection point, security lighting, potable water system, dump station, and fire pits.  This campground is easily accessible off Highway 28 between Levan and Gunnison. It is controlled from one entrance station.  Day use fees are $7 and $8 for overnight camping. For what Painted Rocks lacks in habitat, it makes up for in species.  Despite being relatively low quality habitat with very few trees for migrants, the shrubsteppe and desert here have isolated the few trees enough to make them work as a trap.  There is also a juniper woodlands component bringing in a variety of birds that would otherwise not be present.

Birding:
Although this area also receives very few birders, a few intrepid individuals have built a decent species lists with just a few visits.  As with other campgrounds on the lake the list here includes a lot of waterfowl.  I would suggest including this on a separate checklist for the Yuba Lake SP (incl. Sevier Bridge Reservoir) hot spot to keep the waterbirds on the water and the land birds as part of the campground list.  Of course this is purely a recommendation and in the end birders can make their own assumptions based off what's on the lists.  VIRGINIA'S and ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER along with WESTERN TANAGER and BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK have been observed during migration, while DUSKY and GRAY FLYCATCHER, JUNIPER TITMOUSE, PINYON JAY, and BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER can be found during the breeding season in the juniper.  ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER has been observed in this isolated hot spot, while LARK SPARROW and SAGE THRASHER Are typical of the shrubsteppe. Take a look at the checklist to see the waterbirds observed here, as well as various raptors which use the open hunting grounds year round.

Directions:
You have to make a concerted effort to reach this campground isolated on the east side of the lake.  There are numerous ways to get here, and if you are birding on the the east side of the lake the best route is to drive to the north end of the reservoir and turn right onto Old Botham Road and go east 5.7 miles.  Turn right onto Hwy 28 and go 3.4 miles.  Turn right and drive .2 miles before taking a slight left another .4 miles till you reach the campground. Alternatively you could take Hwy 28 all the way from Nephi south to Levan and then continue till you reach the signs for the run off on your right.

Jeremy Ranch Road photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
Jeremy Ranch Road is a dirt road connecting SR-65 just above East Canyon Reservoir, to Jeremy Ranch on the south end and I-80.  The road follows East Canyon Creek and provides riparian habitat along with agriculture, shrubsteppe, and Gambel's Oak woodlands.  The Summit County portion on the south end is covered here, while the northern portion in Morgan County has its own page here.

Birding:
Jeremy Ranch Road is often used as a shortcut to East Canyon from Park City, as well as a side trial for birding in East Canyon. The southern portion of Jeremy Ranch Road in Summit County is very similar to the northern half in Morgan County.  This section seems to get a lot more birders, but I have a feeling that many lists submitted to eBird are for the entire road and don't take into consideration the two counties.  In the Summit County section it is not uncommon to find WILLOW FLYCATCHER during the summer months along the river; while on the northern section in Morgan County this species seems mostly absent. During the summer one can expect to find SPOTTED SANDPIPER, DUSKY FLYCATCHER, various species of SWALLOW, HOUSE WREN, GRAY CATBIRD, YELLOW WARBLER, and GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE among other common breeders.  FOX and SONG SPARROW are both common along the river corridor as well. AMERICAN DIPPER Can be found at various points along the river, and during the winter months are often seen very close to the south end of the.  Birding is extreme easy here and can be done by car, foot, or on bike.  This makes a great morning or evening summer outing and can be covered in a couple hours quite thoroughly.  

Directions:
Take I-80 exit 141 in Jeremy Ranch and go north onto Homestead Road. Take your first left onto Rasmussen Road after getting off the interstate.  Go for .1 mile into the traffic circle and take the first right onto Jeremy Road.  From here the road heads north and turns from Jeremy Road, into East Canyon Road, then into Jeremy Ranch Road. All in all it's 8.6 miles long until SR-65--with the northern half being a separate hot spot location in Morgan County.