Looking south from Mission Road photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
If you happen to be in Bluff during spring take a quick drive to the east along Mission Road/SR-162 towards Montezuma Creek. For the first couple miles the road is borders on the north by red rock cliffs, and on the south by agricultural fields.  Further south is the San Juan River.  There are a couple locations to access the river where lush riparian habitat dominated by cottonwood, willow, and russian olive provide great habitat.  The fields along the road are often flooded in the spring providing wetland type habitat even if just for a few weeks.  During the rest of the year birding along the river is also possible, but the fields won;t be as productive.

Birding:
This quick drive is mostly birding by car, but you can get out and scope the fields to look for waterbirds during migration.  If the fields are wet in April you will usually see a handful of WHITE-FACED IBIS, and may snag some shorebirds like MARBLED GODWIT, or even gulls like FRANKLIN'S GULL.  Along the road there are usually SAY'S PHOEBE, WESTERN KINGBIRD, ROCK WREN, and WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW.  CHIPPING and BREWER'S SPARROW might be present, while LUCY'S WARBLER can usually be heard in the trees along the river.  Overhead keep an eye out for WHITE-THROATED SWIFT and VIOLET-GREEN SWALLOW.  One thing to keep an eye out for here is CHIHUAHUAN RAVEN which have been found mixed in with large flocks of COMMON RAVEN in the fields.  The much smaller cousins are quite easy to pick out in a flock if present.  Migrants along the river, as well as waterfowl can be found. Apparently during the winter, large numbers of WOOD DUCKS have been seen but are unreported here in eBird.

Directions:
From the intersection of Red Rock Rd and Main Street in Bluff, head east on Main Street for .8 miles.  Turn right onto Mission Road which you can take for 2.9 miles to the turn off to old swinging bridge on the right.

Green River WTP photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
The Green River WTP (waste water treatment ponds) are located on the south side of town, and accessed via Silliman Lane. There are actually 4 ponds on the location, with the largest one being the northwest pond visible form Silliman Lane covering 12.7 acres. The northeast pond is the second largest at 7.3 acres, while the southeast pond covers 4 acres, and the southwest just 3.7 acres.  Since only the northwest pond is visible from Silliman Lane the others are much harder to find access to.  Although you can view all the ponds from the west bound lanes of I-70, this is a dangerous area to scan from as there are no pullouts.  At the end of Silliman Lane a dirt road continues through a fence and actually wraps all the way around the south end, possibly giving view to the other ponds.  I am not sure of whether or not this is private property or who to contact for access.  To the south of the ponds are barren desert slopes and then the interstate.  The north and west sides are bordered by farms, while the east side is bordered by the Green River. Like waste water treatment ponds through rural Utah, these provide some of the best birding in Green River, and are the only still water in the area making them a haven for waterbirds of any kind--especially during migration.

Birding:
Most visits to this location are during the spring and fall when birders are headed between the southeaster part of Utah and the Wasatch Front.  The WTP is a must stop if you pass through as there will invariably be something unexpected for the location in the middle of the desert.  In the spring as waterfowl migrants head north you can make a pretty good list here with a short stop.  While GADWALL, NORTHERN SHOVELER, and CINNAMON TEAL are present in good numbers you might also find AMERICAN WIGEON, BLUE-WINGED TEAL, REDHEAD, and LESSER SCAUP.  A hybrid MALLARD x GADWALL (Brewer's Duck), was seen her in April 2015.  Although some divers like PIED-BILLED GREBE and DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANT have been observed they aren't as expected. WHITE-FACED IBIS may be here, or along the river, or in the fields along Silliman Lane.  Perhaps the biggest draw for birders is shorebirds.  With the Green River being a natural north-south migration route--the standing water here provides excellent feeding grounds.  LESSER YELLOWLEGS, MARBLED GODWIT, LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER, LEAST SANDPIPER, SPOTTED SANDPIPER, and WILSON'S PHALAROPE have been seen here.  4 species of Gulls have also been recorded--with large flocks of FRANKLIN'S GULLS using the ponds during migration, and BONAPARTE'S GULLS popping up mixed in.  All 6 species of regularly occurring swallows show up here during migration, while species like WESTERN KINGBIRD, SAY'S PHOEBE, ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER, and NORTHERN MOCKINGBIRD are reported form the summer months.  GRAY CATBIRD are occasionally reported, as well as BLUE GROSBEAK, YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT, and BULLOCK'S ORIOLE.  Most of these passerine species are more likely to occur along Silliman Lane to the north and are likely from earlier checklists before this location was created. Needless to say the entire area is a migrant trap for lots of species.  With enough birders stopping to check the ponds out on a regular basis some big finds would come form here in the desert where standing water is at a premium.

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.

Central Lehi Fields from Google Street View

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Description:
The Central Lehi fields are everything west of the Jordan River to Redwood Road between 2100 North and Lehi Main Street on the south end.  Typically birding is confined to 3600 West form the north till you reach the go leg mid way and the road turns into 400 East until it hits Main Street.  Allred's Pond is found along the southern portion of the road while the North Lehi Fields are located on the north side of 2100 North.  The area is predominantly farm land, with several mink and hog farms as well.  At the dog leg there are two patches of trees, one running north-south, the other east-west where songbirds, and migrants can be found.  The fields here are often flooded in the spring creating a great wet habitat for the birds.  The biggest down side to this area is that the road can be busy and it is really narrow making it dangerous at times--and the smell is often unbearable because of the farms.

Birding:
I have definitely submitted about 90% of the checklists for this location as I pass from the North Lehi Fields to Powell Lake or back.  The irony is the birding here is good enough to make it worthy of its own hot spot.  I've really only birded here in the early spring through May, and then a couple times in the early winter.  During the spring and winter there are often huge flocks of CALIFORNIA GULLS that have RING-BILLED mixed in.  The Ring-billed number drop dramatically as spring wear on and they are replaced by hundred of FRANKLIN'S GULLS in mid April through May.  On a couple occasions in April I have have BONAPARTE'S GULLS flyover here headed north.  The only other odd gull I have found is a HERRING GULL mixed in once.  Other off flybys include a flock of FORSTER'S TERNS likely leaving Powell Lake to head north. One of the main draws for me is when the fields flood in mid April usually through early May.  This is not natural and is done by the landowners for their crop.  It benefit birders though as generally 100's, if not 1,000's of WHITE-FACED IBIS flock in to feed.  I have found both GLOSSY IBIS and hybrid Glossy X White-faced Ibis mixed in with these flocks.  And these flocks often create a feeding frenzy which other birds join in to.  CATTLE EGRET and SNOWY EGRET have both been seen mixed in.  The crazy thing is the shorebirds that join--dozens of MARBLED GODWITS can be seen, while the occasional AMERICAN AVOCET and LONG-BILLED CURLEW show up.  At the dog-leg I have had several SOLITARY SANDPIPER--and in the early summer SANDHILL CRANE have been observed here as well.  One of the better finds here was a RUSTY BLACKBIRD near the north end among 1,000's of starlings and BREWER'S BLACKBIRDS in November.  These huge winter flocks are a common sight near the farms.

Directions:
From I-15 Exit 282 in Lehi take 2100 North westbound for 1.8 miles. Turn left onto 3600 West and cross the east bound lanes of 2100 North. You are now in the Central Lehi Fields.  After 1 mile the road dog legs and becomes 400 East before continuing another mile south to Lehi Main Street.

Bountiful Landfill from Google Street View

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Description:
The Bountiful City Landfill is a large landfill in the city of Bountiful sitting on the southeast edge of Farmington Bay WMA, and just north of Bountiful Pond.  The landfill is bordered by several bodies of water, and mostly empty fields, with some marsh and wetland habitat.  The actual landfill is--a landfill, and is used very frequently by locals to dump their trash.  Access to the landfill proper has been hit or miss over the years.  In the 90's and early 2000's it was as simple as saying you wanted to go look at birds and they would usually let you drive in, just asking that you stay out of the way.  In recent years they have form time to time turned birders away.  You might even go so far as to pay the fee to dump if you want to get in.  The popularity of the location as a birding site has waned in the past decade, mostly due to better, safer access,  and gulling opportunities at other locations.

Birding:
If you were interested in gulls and lived in Utah in the late 90's or early 2000's, you probably spent some time at the Bountiful Landfill plugging your nose, while scanning the various gulls in the middle of winter. In 2004 when a LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL was found here, it became a go to location for birders to search.  Aside form the throngs of CALIFORNIA and RING-BILLED GULLS present there were always a nice mix of variously aged HERRING GULLS to look at.  THAYER'S GULL could usually be found in the mix, and occasionally GLAUCOUS and GLAUCOUS-WINGED GULLS were picked out.  There is even a record for WESTERN GULL.  Various other birds you normally find at dumps are here as well--flocks of starlings, blackbirds, pigeons, and ravens are not uncommon.  Various raptors hunt the perimeter, and birds form the marshes surrounding can often be heard and seen. I stopped going to the landfill after Lee Kay Ponds and Farmignton Bay really started being the gull magnets they are.  There are probably quite a few good gulls still using the dump, and if you live in the area, it might be worth checking from time to time in the winter.

Directions:
From the Legacy Parkway, take Exit 4 on to 500 South.  Head west towards the frontage Road, and continue 2.2 miles.  You will pass Bountiful Pond on your left and keep going straight until you reach the entrance to the landfill straight ahead.

Warm Springs from Google Street View

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Description:
Warm Springs is a series of shallow ponds along I-15 at 2300 North in Salt Lake City.  Most birding here is on the ponds west of the interstate south of 2300 North where as many 4 ponds are present.  The 2 most notable are directly south of American Building Components and Rocky Mountain Fabrication and can't be seen from 2300 North.  The only access is a tiy6 two track that allows you to scan looking east (see directions below). The shallow ponds often dry to nothing by later summer, but are usually quite full in the spring. The industrial complexes around really give the area a stark and "wasteland" type of feel.  There are some russian olives along a canal that borders the west end of the ponds.  Further west form here is a wetland observation area--ironically the view into it is often obscured by phragmites.

Birding:
What do a loud interstate, a industrial park, and a large playa with a shallow film of water on it have in common?  Not a whole lot, but it sure makes a great stop for birds i nan otherwise inhospitable area of the city.  More than a dozen species of waterfowl have been observed here. NORTHERN SHOVELER seems ever present, while in the fall winter and spring you might glimpse RING-NECKED DUCK or RUDDY DUCK.  WOOD DUCK and both GREATER and LESSER SCAUP have been observed.  GREAT and SNOWY EGRET along with WHITE-FACED IBIS may occasionally turn up here, while the main draw has always been shorebirds.  Salt Lake City despite having a large portion of Great Salt Lake shoreline is mostly devoid of good shorebird habitat--Warm Springs surprisingly fills the void to an extent.  Both GREATER and LESSER YELLOWLEGS are common fall migrants here. SPOTTED SANDPIPER, KILLDEER, AMERICAN AVOCET, and BLACK-NECKED STILT are all easy finds.  Small numbers of peeps occasionally show up and LEAST, WESTERN. and SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER have all been seen.  Due to the limited number of birders that go here, a lot probably goes unnoticed.  Occasionally good gulls are seen at this locale.  BONAPARTE'S GULL have been seen during migration while MEW, HERRING, and THAYER'S GULL have all been observed during the winter.  During migration all 6 regularly occurring Utah SWALLOW species can be found here.  Other species typical of marsh can be found here, mostly in the areas to the west.

Directions:
From I-15 southbound take exit 311 as it loops back 180 degrees and hits 2300 North.  Turn left here and go .4 miles.  On your left there will be a dirt road a small canal, another dirt road, then a big canal then another road.  Take the 1st dirt road (furthest east) and go south.  It degrades to two track and eventually dead ends at a fence between the north and south pond to your west. Form I-15 northbound taking exit 311 turn left onto Warm Springs Road for .4 miles.  After you pass under the freeway the road heads west becoming 2300 North.  Go another .4 miles till you reach the road on your left.

Sand Hollow Reservoir from Google Street View

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Description:
The sprawling 20,000-acre park, which rests mostly on USDI Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, rivals Utah's two largest state parks - Wasatch Mountain and Antelope Island. Sand Hollow already one of the most visited destinations in the Utah State Park system, with recreation opportunities for nearly every user from boaters to bikers, and OHV riders to equestrians. A favorite destination for local off-highway vehicle enthusiasts, Sand Mountain provides 15,000 acres of perfectly sculpted dunes. The red sand is an incredible backdrop for Sand Hollow reservoir. At nearly twice the size of nearby Quail Creek Reservoir, Sand Hollow offers boating and other water recreation in a spectacular setting.  The park opened in 2003 and sits at roughly 3,000' in elevation.  The reservoir comprises 1,322 acres of the park and is the main draw for birders.  As a state park this is a fee area.  Along the west edge of the park is the headquarters, campground, enormous parking area, boat launch and to the south the dam.  From here you can take the park road around the south end which is mostly beaches and flats, leading into the dunes to the south.  Most of the north and east end of the park is only accessible by boat.  Outside of the park gates you can take an old highway around the south end of the park into mostly sagebrush covered hills before flattening out in desert with a small cholla collective.  Being a popular destination for weekend warriors it is often crowded, loud, and not ideal for birding. During the week and early in the day however it is fantastic!

Birding:
When Sand Hollow was built it really changed the face of water birding in Washington County.  It replaced Quail Creek as the largest body of water, and out in the open desert to the south, became the location for migrant waterbirds to use.  With more than 175 species being recorded here it has an impressive list of rarities. 31 species of waterfowl have been seen here including all 3 SCOTERS, LONG-TAILED DUCK, 5 species of GEESE, and TRUMPETER SWAN.  Large flotillas of ducks converge here during the winter months and often number in the 1,000's.  PACIFIC LOON, RED-NECKED GREBE, NEOTROPIC CORMORANT, and BROWN PELICAN are a nice list of vagrant divers that have been observed here.  NORTHERN HARRIER are present around the edges of the reservoir, and in the fields adjacent.  GOLDEN EAGLE is seen fairly often soaring high over the desert here.  During the winter BALD EAGLE can usually be found as well.

The shorebird list is almost as impressive as the waterfowl list with 26 species being recorded.  The big treat here was a PURPLE SANDPIPER several years ago that was the first time the species have been observed west of the Mississippi.  SEMIPALMATED PLOVER, WHIMBREL, SANDERLING, DUNLIN, PECTORAL SANDPIPER, and RED PHALAROPE have all been seen here, showing jsut about anything can show up in the desert at this oasis.  POMARINE JAEGER to date is the only species to show up here, but I imagine all 3 will be recorded eventually.  With 10 species of gulls being recorded, its no surprise that vagrants are in the mix with HEERMANN'S, SABINE'S, WESTERN, GLAUCOUS-WINGED and LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULLS all being found here.  5 species of tern have been seen with LEAST, BLACK, and COMMON TERN all being notable. During the winter months SAGEBRUSH SPARROW, SAGE THRASHER, and CACTUS WREN can be picked up driving around the south end of the reservoir and checking the sagebrush and cholla patches. During migration various sparrow species may be seen, as well as all 6 regularly occurring species of SWALLOWS in Utah.  LOGGERHEAD SHRIKE can be seen year round, and NORTHERN SHRIKE has been recorded in the winter.

When birding at Sand Hollow I like to start at the entrance station where GREATER ROADRUNNER has be seen and head up to the parking lot stopping on the north end of the west dam.  From here you can scope the deeper areas of the reservoir near the dam.  You can also drive down a small dirt road here for closer viewing of the beach for shorebirds--this is usually only worth while in the morning or mid week when the water sports folks aren't out yet.  Continuing along the road in the parking lot headed north you can scan more beach, water, and the large rocks near the marina.  After working to the boat launch I head back towards the entrance and will take the park road south around the lake to the beaches for more scanning.  Gulls and shorebirds often roost here so these beaches are a good spot to spend some time  As you work east the water gets further away and you can drive to it in some areas.  Towards the east end is where many dabbling ducks are often found.  You can't really go wrong birding here from fall through late spring (May). The summer months are hot, and the place is packed.  But the rest of the year its a must stop while birding the area.

Directions:
From I-15 exit 16 head east on SR-9 for 4.6 miles.  Turn right onto Sand Hollow Road and go 4 miles till you reach the left turn onto Sand Hollow Parkway and into the entrance station.  Alternatively from Exit 10 in Washington, head south to the first light form the freeway and turn left onto State/Telegraph Street and go 1.1 miles.  Turn right on to 300 east and go 1.6 miles.  Turn left onto Washington Dam Road and go 2.8 miles.  Turn right onto Washington Dam Exit and go .2 miles to turn left to enter the Southern Parkway.  Follow this for 3.3 miles then turn left on to Sand Hollow Road.  After .8 miles turn right into the entrance to the park.

Pioneer Road Marsh photo by Mike Hearell

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Description:
This marsh complex is located in Marriott-Slaterville in the western portion of Weber County. It is surrounded by private property but can be viewed from a pullout along Pioneer Rd. It is a mudflat with a drainage of water running through the middle most of the year, but is flooded during irrigation season. The canal has water year round, but is much deeper during Summer months. During cold extreme cold weather the marsh itself will freeze up, but the canal stays mostly open.

Birding:
 During the Winter this is one of the very few locations to find gulls. Mixed in with the expected species, MEW GULLS and LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULLS have both been observed here. During Spring this is a good spot to locate wading birds including AMERICAN AVOCET, BLACK-NECKED STILT, LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER, and both species of YELLOWLEGS. AMERICAN WHITE PELICANS also frequent the marsh during this time. Fall is the best time to visit as the migrating WATERFOWL use this area as a rest stop.  Depending on the time of year the canal can have multiple species of GREBES, DIVING DUCKS, BELTED KINGFISHER, and has even had a TRUMPETER SWAN.

Directions:
Take the 400 N (Weber County Fairgrounds) exit off of I-15 and head west 2.9 miles to the pullout.

Thanks to Mike Hearell for this location submission.

Quail Creek State Park from Google Street View

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Description:
Quail Creek Reservoir is a 600 acre man made body of water that was completed in 1985 to provide irrigation and culinary water to the St. George area. Most of the water in the reservoir does not come from Quail Creek, but is diverted from the Virgin River and transported through a buried pipeline. Two dams form the reservoir with a maximum depth of 120' .  The surrounding red rock desert and dry slopes create an oasis in the desert.  There is a campground along the main road with a number of deciduous trees creating a migrant trap.  The shore line provides numerous beaches, sandbars, and exposed rocks.  Near the inlet there are often mudflats when there is low water, and an overgrown riparian habitat created  a lush environment in this otherwise arid location.

Birding:
Quail Creek really is an oasis in the desert.  For over a decade it was the only major body of water in the area and attracted a fair share of amazing birds.  With the addition of Sand Hollow just to the south there is some competition, but the rare birds still find their way here.  For birders this is often a better location due to there being fewer water sports enthusiasts than Sand Hollow.  In any event, the bird list here is approaching 200 species and from October through April just about anything can show up. With 27 species of waterfowl on record the list is impressive.  EURASIAN WIGEON, BLACK, SURF, and WHITE-WINGED SCOTER have all been seen here.  Quail Creek is one of the few lakes in Utah where all 4 Loon species found in Utah have been seen.  RED-THROATED, YELLOW-BILLED, and PACIFIC LOON in addition to COMMON have all been seen here on multiple occasions. All regularly occurring grebes have been seen here as well as RED-NECKED GREBE.  During January 2015 a BROWN PELICAN was here for less than 24 hours and NEOTROPIC CORMORANT has been seen here a handful of times.  During the winter it is not uncommon to see all 3 MERGANSER species here, as well as WESTERN GREBE, and large rafts of gulls that are usually mostly RING-BILLED with some CALIFORNIA GULLS. With these gulls there have been some great finds. MEW, THAYER'S, LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL have all been seen, while HERRING GULL is reported occasionally.  During fall migration SABINE'S GULL are reported form time to time; while in the spring FRANKLIN'S and BONAPARETE'S GULLS are often reported.  All 4 regularly occurring Utah TERN species have been seen as well.  In October 2007 a very confiding LONG-TAILED JAEGER provided a lot of Utah Birders with their state lifer for this species here.

While waterbirds are the focus here, the shoreline boasts its own impressive species list.  Migrant shorebirds can't help but use this location--and that means a variety of species have been seen.  Notably PECTORAL SANDPIPER, BAIRD'S SANDPIPER, MARBLED GODWIT, and LONG-BILLED CURLEW. Moving away from the shore the campground is a great spot to look for migrants in May and during the fall. What is actually expected here is up to interpretation.  The campground host in the past has had feeders for hummingbirds and songbirds.  ANNA'S and COSTA'S HUMMINGBIRD have been seen, as have WHITE-THROATED and HARRIS'S SPARROW.  Some of the best passerine birding though is by the inlet.  The thick riparian habitat here attracts various warblers--with YELLOW and LUCY'S breeding here.  YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT, PACIFIC WREN, and WILLOW FLYCATCHER have been seen here.  One of the better finds here has been a PRAIRIE WARBLER!  The cliffs at the inlet are a good location to look for both CANYON and ROCK WREN.  BLACK-THROATED SPARROW can be found here and RUFOUS-CROWNED SPARROW has been observed as well.  The list goes on and on--really the best way to learn more about the birds here is to go birding at Quail Creek.  You won't be disappointed.

Birding here is all done along the west edge form the main road.  There is a pullout at the dam which is good for scanning the lower reaches of the reservoir for waterbirds. In the spring keep an eye out for BLUE GROSBEAK here.  You can scan the middle portions of the reservoir from the campground, as well as the main beach.  Walking here is easiest by parking in the campground area and walking the trees, and also in the boat launch area to walk or scope.  Near the inlet there are numerous pullouts to scan the upper reaches of the reservoir, and to park and walk into the riparian areas.

Directions:
From I-15 exit 16 for Hurricane/Zion head east on UT-9 for 2.5 miles. Turn left at the light and follow the road 1.1 miles tll you reach the dam on your right.  There is a viewpoint here where you can park.  You can also continue on the road another .9 miles to the campground on your right.  From here is is another .9 miles till the inlet.  Alternatively from southbound I-15 north of Leeds you can take ext 23 and go left under the freeway. Turn right onto N. Main Street and follow this road south for 3.8 miles.  Turn here and youare at the inlet and can follow the raod along the reservoir.

Sandy Beach from Bing Birds Eye 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.  This area is more known for the migrant trap birding along the road than the birding here at the end of the road.  Most birders don't think of the two locations as separate--as they are birded in the same trip usually.  But the habitat at the river "delta" is quite different, and if you were focusing on waterbird then the list you would have here is going to be quite different than on the road--with some overlap.  The actual beach isn't much of a beach anymore--as year after year it seems to erode more and more to the point where there isn't a ton of beach shoreline.  But the waterbirds are still on the water, and the wide open views of the lake for here could make for a potentially great lake watch site.

Birding:
During the winter months when the lake freezes over there isn't much bird activity--but during migration and the summer months there can be quite a bit of bird activity on the water.  Fall migration seems to be the real high point for things here when both CLARK'S and WESTERN GREBE are present in good numbers, along with AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN, DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANT, and CASPIAN TERN.  Other birds end up mixed in including HORNED GREBE, BLACK TERN, SABINE'S GULL, and CATTLE EGRET.  Waterfowl can often be seen passing and about 15 species have been recorded including TUNDRA SWAN and RED-BREASTED MERGANSER. The shorebird list form here is actually quite impressive with almost 20 species and some real nice rarities including: AMERICAN GOLDEN-PLOVER, STILT SANDPIPER, DUNLIN, and SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER.  Here at the end of the road its not uncommon to find EASTERN KINGBIRD during the summer, and various migrant songbirds in spring and summer. WESTERN TANAGER are often foraging at the tree edges here.  huge flights of all 6 species of swallows are often seen out over the water here during questionable weather.  Check out the River Lane hot spot for more information about the birding here--and next time you stop by try creating a checklist for both locations!

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 continue straight till the road dead ends at the beach.

Willard Bay NW Playas photo by Mike Hearell

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Description:
The majority of this hotspot is the playas to the NW of Willard Bay, also known as the Willard Spur. It is flooded from Fall through early Summer. The road between the Reservoir and Spur can be quite rough, and muddy when raining. The two jetties, dike and roadside are lined with wheatgrass, phragmite, greasewood, and pickleweed. During late Summer the NW playa is dry.

Birding:
This location holds large numbers of waterfowl when flooded and not frozen. During Spring migration, large numbers of Marbled Godwit, White-faced Ibis, Black-necked Stilt and American Avocet use the shallow waters of the Spur. Most common species of waterfowl, shorebirds and waders can be found on the Spur as long as it holds some water. The roads are rough and at times only passable with a vehicle with higher clearance but, if you make the trip you might be rewarded with Snowy Plovers, HORNED GREBE, EURASIAN WIGEON, LEAST and BLACK TERN, BAR-TAILED GODWIT, sea duck or even the occasional JAEGER.

Directions:
This hotspot is located on the NW corner of Willard Bay SP in Box Elder County. From I-15 take exit 351 and turn south onto HWY126 (2000 W). Head south on HWY 126 for 0.3 miles and turn right onto 4000 N. Approximately 2.3 miles west turn right off of 4000 N onto dirt road (4150 W), this road will eventually bring you parallel to the south dike of Willard Bay Reservoir. Follow this road past Harold S Crane along the west side of Willard Bay until you reach the NW corner with the light tower.

Thanks to Mike Hearell for this location submission.

Antelope Island Marina from Google Street View

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Description:
The marina at Antelope Island State Park is used to launch various craft on to the Great Salt Lake.  Most use is by the state as well as sailors launching private sail boats.  The marina has also been used by a minority of "hunters" who have taken to the practice of stalking birding listservs to attempt to hunt the rare ocean species of waterfowl that over winter here in small numbers.  Due to the drying up of the lake the marina sees far less usage then in former years.  The small marina has jetties/breakwalls on the north and west sides, while the causeway provides the break to the east.  To the south is the island with a decent amount of shrubsteppe habitat in direct view of the marina.  The north jetty can be walked while you can drive the west jetty via the south side of the parking lot at the marina.  Just follow the dirt road as it loops to the west.   The habitat at the marina is shrubsteppe as well as disturbed land, with a beach on the north side of the north jetty facing out.  Mud flats inside the jetties, and on the outside provide additional shorebird habitat.  The open water of the Great Salt Lake to the north and the west is the primary habitat at this location.

Birding:
As with several locations on the island, the marina isn't a major birding destination, but a small part of the great birding on the island.  Scanning the shoreline inside the jetties, and on the beach to the north can turn up shorebirds in the spring and fall including RED-NECKED and WILSON'S PHALAROPE.  The beach here is a spot where RED PHALAROPE has been seen historically and is always worth checking.  Small flocks of WESTERN SANDPIPER are occasionally seen sheltering here, and have had BAIRD'S and SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPERS mixed in. During the winter months SNOW BUNTING has been reported along the west jetty.  Sea ducks like HARLEQUIN DUCK, LONG-TAILED DUCK, SURF, WHITE-WINGED, and BLACK SCOTER have all been observed inside the breakwater as well as to the north from the jetties. Also during the winter look to the brushy areas south of the marina for AMERICAN TREE SPARROW.  In spring and summer breeding RED-WINGED BLACKBIRDS can be seen and heard in the same area.  In May 2013 a LARK BUNTING was seen just up hill from the marina to the south.  One potential for the area that isn't often taken advantage of is a lake watch.  The area on the jetty provides a great vantage point looking north and to see birds following the causeway then heading west around the island in stormy weather.  A LONG-TAILED JAEGER in September 2014 was seen in this general area and these types of rare finds probably pass the island annually going unnoticed as they cruise out over the open water.

Directions:
In Layton, take I-15 exit 332 west bound onto Antelope Drive for about 7 miles to the entrance station to the park.  After paying an entrance fee continue about 6 miles across the causeway to the island. The marina will be on your right when you arrive.

Blanding WWTP from Google Street View

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Description:
The Blanding Wastewater Treatment Ponds (WWTP for short) are 4 ponds used for treating the waste water from the town of Blanding, Utah.  Situated on the south end of town the ponds are the only notable bodies of water and marshland in Blanding creating an oasis in the otherwise barren desert here on the Colorado Plateau.  The ponds have rock banks with some exposed mud flats as well as cattails and other reeds and cover creating a great habitat for migrating waterbirds.  The ponds are private property and must be viewed from public roads around them on the north and east sides.  Some sparse farm land is also nearby but for the most part the surrounding area is arid desert.

Birding:
Sewage ponds + barren desert = some of the best birding in the area.  This equation holds true throughout the desert southwest and in Blanding it is no different.  These ponds get birds that would otherwise not be seen very often in San Juan County.  Given that there is no one regularly reporting birds from Blanding the actual productivity and true status of many of the birds that use these ponds is really unknown.  If you are passing through Blanding this is a must stop for birds--after all it may be the only location away from Lake Powell that gets a decent variety of waterbirds in the desert here.  For started the waterfowl list is very impressive with 17 species including WOOD DUCK, CANVASBACK, HOODED MERGANSER, and BLUE-WINGED TEAL all being recorded.  EARED, WESTERN, and CLARK'S GREBE in addition to PIED-BILLED GREBE have been found here.  GREAT and SNOWY EGRET along with BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON have been observed while WHITE-FACED IBIS use this location in good numbers throughout spring migration.  This oasis is a saving grace for shorebirds and during spring migration GREATER YELLOWLEGS, WILLET, LONG-BILLED CURLEW, MARBLED GODWIT, and WILSON'S PHALAROPE have been observed here among others.  Both BONAPARTE'S and FRANKLIN'S GULL have been recorded during spring migration as well as CALIFORNIA and RING-BILLED GULLS. Passerine species are drawn to the green surrounding the water during migration and various warblers and sparrows have been seen here.  COMMON YELLOWTHROAT, LARK SPARROW, SAGE THRASHER, and SAY'S PHOEBE are all expected during the breeding season.  Currently there are no checklists for the winter and early spring here.  Winter and fall migration really might turn up some great birds, so don;t hesitate to scope things here if you are passing through.  I consider this the best birding location in Blanding.

Directions:
From the corner of Center and Main Streets in Blanding head south on Main Street/US-191 for 3.6 miles.  Turn left onto Shirt Tail Corner and go 200' til you reach the ponds.

Bountiful Pond photo by Stephanie Greenwood

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Description:
The Bountiful Pond (officially the Bountiful Lake), nestled between the Bountiful City Landfill and the South Davis Sewer District, is a hotspot and migrant trap for passerines, gulls and terns, and waterfowl. It is within the city boundaries of West Bountiful, however it is owned and maintained by the City of Bountiful. It is an artificial pond created with federal aid and a grant obtained by the City of Bountiful as a sport fishing restoration effort. Originally it was a quarry of sorts, where clay was dug out and used to seal the bottom of the landfill.  Local streams and city runoff water are now diverted to flow in to the pond. The pond is stocked with several species of fish, there is a parking lot, pit restroom, picnic tables and paths and planted trees. Adjacent to the outer regions of Farmington Bay, the diversity of birds that can show up at "the pond" can be surprising in this unassuming place. It is free and open to the public 24/7. There is a paved path that runs around most of the pond. Expect fishermen, horse riders and scout camping groups year round, especially on weekends. Best times to visit are week day mornings.

Birding:
The west side of the pond along the row of trees and the area south of the pond are usually the best areas for birding. If you park along the frontage road just south of the pond, barely past the entrance to the sewer district (right as the fence ends) you can walk down in to an orchard-like area with grass and trees and follow it down the canal to the pond. During migration expect warblers, sparrows, and flycatchers in this area. Follow the row of trees down to the water and walk the path that runs on the west side of the water. In the summer look for nesting Eastern Kingbirds in the trees along the water, and flocks of swallows resting in the trees. Also scan the trees, shrubs and ground for passerine activity. Notable rarities have included CLAY-COLORED SPARROW, WHITE-THROATED SPARROW and HARRIS'S SPARROW. Late March through early October look for terns, both Caspian and Forster's. In early August BLACK TERNS migrate through Farmington Bay, and are possible at the pond. Common Nighthawks are also not uncommon in the warm evenings of August and September. COMMON TERN has also been sighted in early Spring. September migration will bring Cassin's Vireos. Around late September through October, owls may be present roosting in the trees. There are also a number of domestic ducks and geese that love to be fed, found near the parking lot area. Summers can be pretty thick with mosquitoes; protective clothing is advised.

Directions:
Take I-15 or Legacy Highway to the 500 South exit and exit West. The road will curve and head north. Take this for a couple miles until you see the South Davis Sewer District. You'll see the water on the west side of the street.  You can park along the road and take the path described above, or you can turn left (right before the canal, it is an unmarked road) and park in the parking lot.  Restrooms are at the parking lot area.

Decker Lake from Google Street View

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Description:
Decker Lake is a small lake in West Valley City, fed by a canal from the Jordan River.  The lake had a paved and dgravel path around the entire perimeter with several benches.  There are three "arms" of the lake--the northwest, south, and east arms.  The lake sits next a juvenile detention facility, and is surrounded by large office complexes, and other commercial property.  I-215 West side belt route runs along the west side of the lake.  The lake is open to partially open year round and has some small Russian Olives and pines surrounding it.  The shoreline is primarily open with stretches covered in phragmites.

Birding:
Decker Lake is popular during the fall, winter and spring, mostly for waterfowl, divers, shorebirds, and in recent years gulls. Suring spring and fall, waterfowl, shorebirds, and other waterbirds use the lake to rest and feed.  During the winter it is not unusual to see GADWALL, NORTHERN PINTAIL, NORTHERN SHOVELER, and GREEN-WINGED TEAL here with the Mallards.  Large flocks of Canada Geese that visit often have CACKLING GEESE mixed in.  SNOW, ROSS'S, and GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE have all be recorded as well.The major draw in recent years has been between November and February for gulls that use various locations around the south end of the Great Salt Lake.  During the winter months 10 species of gull have been recorded here including: ICELAND, WESTERN. MEW, LESSER BLACK-BACKED, GLAUCOUS, and GLAUCOUS-WINGED GULL.  Large numbers of gulls often flock in the south leg.  If birding other west Salt Lake Location like Lake Park, the Jordan River, or Lee Kay Ponds, it's worth a stop here.

Directions:
From Redwood Road north of 2500 South, take Parkway Blvd (2495 south) west bound.  The road curves to the south.  When you come to a light turn left and follow this to the next right which is Research Way.  Turn right here and follow the road to the entrance to the Decker Lake Detention Facility.  Turn right into the dirt parking lot outside the facility and park.  Coming from the south on Redwood Road, take a left on Research Way (about 2720 south) and go till the road forks at the lake.  Take the left fork to stay on Research and make your way to the parking area.

An Empty Allred's Pond from Google Street View

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Description:
Small private pond surrounded by agriculture and less than a block from the Jordan River.  Depending on the  time of year the pond may be empty.  The owner has been doing maintenance in recent years and the pond often has low or no water.

Birding:
Allred's Pond is usually a stop between birding spots in Lehi.  You can pull off to the edge of the road and scan the pond with binoculars or a spotting scope.  Depending on the water level sometimes there are mudflats, and other times the only shore is a steep bank covered in reeds and other weeds and bushes.  When there is at least some water there are usually birds.  During low water during thee spring its not unusual to see some shorebird here, including WILSON'S PHALAROPE, WILLET, and GREAT YELLOWLEGS.  Gulls are also seen here when roosting or feeding in the nearby fields.  In spring and summer this can include FRANKLIN'S GULLS.  Various waterfowl are often present as well, and BLUE-WINGED TEAL has been observed here.  During migration large flocks of swallows often swarm the pond when there is a decent amount of water.

Directions:
From I-15 in Lehi, take Exit 279 and head west on Lehi Main Street.  From the freeway it's about 3.9 miles to 10420 West where you will turn right and head north--this is just after you cross the Jordan River.  After Turning Right it is .4 miles to the pond on your right.  Coming from the west and Redwood Road take Crosswoods Road/Lehi Main Street 1/2 mile before turning left onto 10420 North.

Lake Park from the Air photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
Lake Park is made up of Stonebridge Golf Course, undeveloped fields,  and a business park.  There are numerous small "lakes" or ponds, connected by various canals.  As of the winter of 2013-2014 there seems to be a bit of development of the undeveloped sections so the landscape may change drastically in the coming years.

Birding:
Lake Park has become a popular winter birding destination in Salt Lake County for gulls and waterfowl from November through April.  Because most of the property is private birding can be difficult, but there are a couple of primary areas to look for things.  You can drive most of the roads, and pull off into parking lots to scan some fields and ponds.  You can also exit your vehicle and walk where there are sidewalks.  Please be mindful of no trespassing signs. The main pond to the south of the Stonebridge Golf Cours Club House is often the center of birding here.  When the water is open various waterbirds may be present.  When frozen, or partially frozen, gulls often use it to roost.  The west pond near 5600 West, just south of Target has been a great spot for close viewing of gulls when the water is open.  In November 2013 a PACIFIC LOON spent a number of days here.  Between the two ponds a hefty list of rare gulls have been recorded, including: WESTERN, GLAUCOUS-WINGED, GLAUCOUS, LESSER BLACK-BACKED, MEW, and THAYER'S GULLS.  The golf course grounds and fields between provide great feeding sites for large flocks of Canada Geese, sometimes numbering in the 1,000's.  CACKLING, GREATER WHITE-FRONTED, ROSS'S, and SNOW GOOSE are all recorded almost annually here with the mix.

Directions:
From SR-201 you can reach the park from the west at 5600 West, or the east at 4000 West/Bangerter Highway.  Take either road south from SR-201 till you reach Lake Park Blvd.  From Bangerter turn right onto Lake Park Blvd, and from 5600 West turn left.

Powell Lake photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
In 2013 the north section was drained leaving mudflats that provided excellent habitat for shorebirds and waders.  The low water on the southside also provided ample shorebird habitat--mostly on the west and southern edges.  The east edge borders a canal lined with Russian Olive and Phragmites.  Phragmites also dominate large portions of the north edge as well.

Birding:
During spring migration waterbird use the lake while passing through.  Depending on the level of the water that may mean there are various species of ducks, gulls, waders, shorebirds, and swallows present.  Timing also plays a role in what might be here during the window.  24 species of shorebirds were recorded in 2013 in just 5 weeks.  The rarest birds included a LEAST TERN, GLOSSY IBIS, and DUNLIN.  During the fall and early winter while open water remains, large numbers of gulls use the pond for resting and feeding.  In 2013 both MEW and LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL were mixed in with the more common species.  In the winter the water is frozen and bird life is scant.  During the hot summer and early fall there are birds present but there are also lots of bugs, and nothing of note to look for.

Directions:
Go west on Lehi Main Street about 3 miles from the center of town.  Turn left (south) onto Willow Lane (3130 West) and go to the stop sign a couple of blocks away.  Turn right onto Willow Reed (340 South) and Powell Lake will be about 1 block away.