Helper City River Parkway photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
The Price River Parkway winds its way through Helper following the Price River. Along the Parkway you will find quiet places to sit, beautiful natural areas and pieces of history. Located along the Parkway in downtown Helper is a pavilion with a sand volleyball court. You may reserve the pavilion by calling Helper City.  A nice riparian habitat dominated by cottonwood and willow lines the river providing great habitat.  The actual walking path along the river starts at Martin Road on the northwest end and goes to Janet Street at the south.  This walking path is 3/4 of a mile one way.  From here you can keep going north on Martin Road for .6 miles till you reach a large pond on the east side of the road lined with cattails and surrounded by some open fields before rising to the cliffs on the east side.

Birding:
There has been a decent amount of visitors to the area for the first half of the year, but only one checklist after July.  Species typically found here include AMERICAN ROBIN, MALLARD, COMMON RAVE, BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEE, HOUSE FINCH, EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVE and the more common introduced urban species typically found in cities.  Some of the more notable reports include FRANKLIN'S GULL, AMERICAN DIPPER, TOWNSEND'S SOLITAIRE, VIRGINIA'S WARBLER, VESPER SPARROW, and several reports of EVENING GROSBEAK.  Like most desert riparian habitat in Utah lots of birds are attracted by the plentiful food associated with this habitat, so anything can show up.  PINE SISKIN and CASSIN'S FINCH have been reported as well as HERMIT THRUSH, an BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK.  During spring and fall migration this stretch of river might see some good migrants moving through along he natural corridor of the river.  If you are passing through Helper this is absolutely worth a quick stop to see if anything interesting is around.

Directions:
From Main Street in Helper take US-191/6 north for .3 miles and take the exit onto Martin Road on your right. This is where the pathway heads southeast from (not sure about parking but you can probably park along the street).  If you continue north another .6 miles you will reach the pond on your right.

Foy Lake photo by Tim Avery

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

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

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

Lower Price River Road photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
The road follows the Price River for about 3.5 miles across open desert before hugging the river and following it another 4 miles into the book cliffs at the canyon bottom.  Eventually the road hits the river and you can either go north up Trail Canyon, or cross the river and go south on another dirt road.  For birding purposes I suggest probably turning around here and heading back.  The combination of habitats can make for a descent morning of birding with the sparsely vegetated desert hitting marsh and wetland along the river--and a riparian habitat with cottonwood and willow.  As you hit the canyon the the desert turns to rocky hillsides, and cliffs bordering the riparian habitat of the river.  To the south several hillsides have juniper woodlands as well.  This area has been mostly ignored by birders and potentially could be a worthwhile stop along the way from Price to Green River.

Birding:
This one really might be a gem in the desert.  I've only stopped here twice on a whim to see what might be around.  The open desert for the first couple of miles of road isn't overly productive int eh early spring.  But things like SAY'S PHOEBE, ROCK WREN, and HORNED LARK can be found along the road with ease.  MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRD are in the area, and notably BLACK-THROATED SPARROW can be found.  The are along the river is probably best during the spring and fall but some interesting breeders might occur here.  YELLOW WARBLER are probably the standard, but Yellow-breasted Chat, Blue Grosbeak, Willow Flycatcher, and other riparian specialists probably use the habitat in the canyon.  The wetland areas along the river on the flats can attract waterfowl, and possibly waders, shorebirds, and other waterbirds.  In the canyon look to the cliffs for CANYON WREN and WHITE-THROATED SWIFT.  In the skies above TURKEY VULTURE and other raptors can probably be found regularly. This stop could end up being a great hot spot one day, it just needs some attention.

Directions:
From the on ramp at Exit 243 on US-191/6 in Price head south on US-191 for 35.4 miles till you reach a dirt road and turn off on your left.  Turn here and you are on Woodside Lower Price River Road which continues 7.7 miles into the Book Cliffs.

Woodside from Google Street View

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Description:
Woodside is a ghost town located on the west bank of the shallow Price River in the nearly uninhabited eastern part of Emery County. Its fenced-in filling station is one of the only signs of human activity along the lonely stretch of U.S. Route 6/191 between Wellington and Green River.  At one point in the early 1900's the town had a population of over 300 and actually was a thriving small community.  Today the property is private and surrounded by fence.   The Price River sits to the south lined with cottonwood trees, while sparse desert is found on all sides.  Greasewood dominated the landscape, while some shrubsteppe habitat is also present. A cold-water geyser is on the property but is rarely seen from the road anymore. Along the river these is some marsh and wetland habitat as well.  Given the remote location in the desert the trees do act as a migrant trap.

Birding:
This location hasn't received a lot of coverage--most birders passing do just that--and pass without stopping to see what might be around.  The trees can be hard to access, but can be birded form the road--albeit dangerously.  A small road wraps around the north side of the ghost town through the desert and greasewood.  BREWER'S SPARROWS can be found here in the summer months, while WHITE-CROWNED SPARROWS fill in during the winter.  SAY'S PHOEBE can be found in the area, and WESTERN KINGBIRD are present in the summer months.  RED-TAILED HAWK are often seen perching in the trees along the river.  Since there aren't a ton of checklists and visits the actual species list is probably much higher and numerous migrant species can probably be found here in May and September.  Given how isolated the are is the potential for a mega find here is very high.

Directions:
From the on ramp at Exit 243 on US-191/6 in Price head south on US-191 for 35.4 miles till you reach Woodside on your right.

Duchesne Wastewater Treatement Ponds from Google Street View

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Description:
Not to be confused with the Duchesne Water Treatment Plant, the Wastewater Treatment Ponds are located east of the town of Duchesne just north of US-40 and bordered on the north by the Strawberry River. The compound includes two large ponds on the west side and two smaller ponds on the east side with a riparian habitat following the river on the north side.  The ponds have marshy habitat along the edges with dikes separating the ponds.  To the south are sparse hills with some shrubsteppe and juniper woodlands. There are also 3 small ponds to the west of the facility that aren't part of the compound and lay near the river on private property.

Birding:
Another day birding and you find yourself at another wastewater treatment pond.  Here in the desert west these places are inevitably some of the best birding in what are otherwise unbirdy places.  All over Utah you can find these tiny ponds in out of the way towns and probably some pretty good birds if you spend some time at them.  The Duchesne WTP are right along US-40 so if you are going from Strawberry Reservoir east to Roosevelt or Vernal you will pass by them.  I highly recommend stopping even if just for 5 minutes to scan the ponds and see what waterbirds are resting.  During most of the year there are going to be some birds here.  CANADA GOOSE and MALLARD aside you should also find GADWALL, AMERICAN WIGEON, NORTHERN SHOVELER, RING-NECKED DUCK, LESSER SCAUP, and REDHEAD.  In the winter and during migration you may find BUFFLEHEAD, CANVASBACK, and COMMON GOLDENEYE. GREATER SCAUP are recorded here with some frequency as well.  In the spring, summer, and fall you might find BLUE-WIGNED, CINNAMON, and GREEN-WINGED TEAL.  There is a November record for ROSS'S GOOSE, so good things do show up here. HORNED, EARED, and CLARK'S GREBE have all been observed during fall migration. BALD EAGLE are occasionally seen here along the river during the winter months.  A small variety of shorebirds have been recorded in the spring including: RED-NECKED and WILSON'S PHALAROPE, BLACK-NECKED STILT, LEAST SANDPIPER, and SPOTTED SANDPIPER.  All 6 regularly occurring swallows in Utah can be seen here in the spring and fall. MARSH WREN, SONG SPARROW, and YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD are common on the marshy edges of the ponds.  In the riparian habitat listen carefully during the summer months.  Amongst the chorus of BULLOCK'S ORIOLE, YELLOW WARBLER, and AMERICAN GOLDFINCH you might pick out a BLUE GROSBEAK which nest here.  The hillsides are a good spot to look for LARK SPARROW and other species form the nearby habitat likely bleed into here so things like SAGE THRASHER and BREWER'S SPARROW are certainly possible.

Directions:
From the intersection of Main and Center Streets in Duchesne, head east on Main/US-40 for 1.6 miles till you reach a dirt road on your left where you can view the ponds.

Sparks Spring from Bing Birds Eye View

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Description:
Very little information to go on about this location.  It appears to be on the Locomotive Springs Loop Road, so in most cases is probably entered as part of the hot spot. The small spring provides open water, and some wetland habitat in an otherwise shrubsteppe surrounded desert in just about the middle of nowhere.

Birding:
Currently the location list has just 5 species.  TUNDRA SWAN, NORTHERN HARRIER, COMMON RAVEN, HORNED LARK, and notably SAGEBRUSH SPARROW--all from a single mid February Checklist.

Directions:
Getting to this location take some planning and choosing the best route to suit your needs.  Instead of trying to list out step by step directions, we have created a a Google search with 3 different options for driving here: View Google Map and Directions.  Good Luck!

5th West from Google Street View

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Description:
This trail leads from the southwest edge of Provo along a canal into a marsh and wetland area on the edge of Utah Lake.  The first part of the walk passes through degrades farm and grassland, with a riparian component--dominated by Russian Olives.  Further south the area consists of mostly marsh and wetland, with some riparian habitat--and the lake to the south and west.  During the summer month it is a mosquito haven, so be prepared for lots of bugs.

Birding:
Although this location can be visited year round, the bugs like deter most folks in the summer and early fall.  Most visits are from winter, through May when a variety of waterfowl are present including: GADWALL, AMERICAN WIGEON, and GREEN-WINGED TEAL.  There is a mid-winter report of WOOD DUCK from here as well.  CALIFORNIA QUAIL can be found along the northern section of the trail, while RING-NECKED PHEASANT can be found throughout.  NORTHERN HARRIER might be seen hunting here, and a variety of other raptors are possible.  VIRGINIA RAIL and SORA can be found--often heard during the spring in the wet areas.  NORTHERN FLICKER, AMERICAN KESTERL, BLACK-BILLED MAGPIE, BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEE, AMERICAN ROBIN, and SONG SPARROW are common year round here.  During the winter flocks of WHITE-CROWNED SPARROWS and DARK-EYED JUNCOS fill the bushes here.  During migration warblers can be found in the trees, and MACGILLIVRAY'S, WILSON'S, and YELLOW have all been seen here.  COMMON YELLOWTHROAT and MARSH WREN can be heard singing in the marsh all summer long. GREAT-TAILED GRACKLE are occasionally see here, straying from the parking lots across the freeway to likely breed nearby. In the past there has been an OSPREY nest in the trees 1/4 mile to the west and a trail to the south that leads to the lake shore.

Directions:
From I-15 Exit 263 in Provo go north on University Avenue for .4 miles.  Turn left at the 1st cross street onto Towne Centre Drive and go .6 miles.  Turn left onto 1200 South and follow it for 700' as it bends north.  Take the sharp left onto 500 West and go south for .6 miles till you reach the end of the road and the access point.

1200 W 1700 N from Bing Birds Eye View

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Description:
In the northwest corner of Logan this area is a wetland and marsh area, surrounded by grasslands, and the city to the east.  There is no other information online about this location, so if you have been or can add anything, don't hesitate to comment below.  It appears there is some shorebird habitat based on the species found here and along with the marshy habitat this is the focus.

Birding:
Most visits to the area appear to be from May and August, assuming this is specifically for shorebirds and potentially passerine migrants it eh riparian areas.  In May look for SNOWY EGRET, WHITE-FACED IBIS, SWAINSON'S HAWK SORA, and WILLET.  WILSON'S SNIPE and KILLDEER are probably found year round, along with AMERICAN KESTREL NORTHERN HARRIER, RED-WINGED BLACKBIRD, and WESTERN MEADOLWARK.  During fall migration shorebirds appear to be the focus and in August you might see: SEMIPALMATED PLOVER, LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER, and BAIRD'S, SEMIPALMATED, WESTERN, SOLITARY, and PECTORAL SANDPIPERS.    This array of shorebirds is a nice grouping for such an area in Cache County.  A variety of songbirds have been reported in the fall as well including: AMERICAN PIPIT, YELLOW WARBLER, CHIPPING SPARROW, and LAZULI BUNTING.  Notably a mid-summer record for BOBOLINK suggest this species might breed in the area.

Directions:
From the intersection of Main Street and US-89 in Logan, head north on Main for .8 miles. Turn left onto 1000 North and go 1.3 miles. Turn right onto 1000 West and go .5 miles. Turn left onto 1400 North for .3 miles before turning right onto 1200 West and going another .2 miles and you reach the location on the left..

16-16 Pond Fields from Google Street View

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Description:
Just north off 2200 South along 1600 West in Logan there are a couple of ponds, and a river.  One pond sits about a block east closer to US-89 with a  canal running west then south to the intersection of 2200 south and 1600 west.  At what would be about 2000 South a creek goes under the road with a marsh/wetland and riparian habitat bordering it.  This loops to the west creating a long "pond".  South of the is a larger pond which is completely surrounded by farm fields.  I am not sure what access is like to the actual ponds, but the riparian and marsh area at 200 south on 1600 west is along the public road and can be birded easily.

Birding:
Not nearly as popular or well known as nearby 20-20 Ponds, 16-16 access appears to be more limited with the actual ponds in the area all being back from the roads and not visible without permission to enter the private property surrounding them.  However, there is no public information on birding here, so this is just an assumption.  From 1600 West as mentioned there is a creek, and riparian habitat visible along with the obvious farm land.  WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW, SONG SPARROW, RED-WINGED BLACKBIRD, and BLACK-BILLED MAGPIE are all found here relatively easily.  It looks like most visits happen form fall through spring.  MARSH WREN, BELTED KINGFISHER, and MOURNING DOVE are also reported frequently while variety of waterfowl and a small number of other species are occasionally seen here.

Directions:
From US-89 at 1000 West south of downtown Logan, go south on US-89 for .4 miles. Turn right onto 2200 South and go .3 miles.  Turn right onto 1600 West and continue .3 miles till you reach the pond.

20-20 Ponds from Google Street View

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Description:
To the northwest of the intersection of 2000 West and 2200 South in Logan is 20-20 Ponds.  It is actually just one large horseshoe shaped pond, with the tails on the south side and the loop on the north.  The best viewing is on the large southeast corner of the pond from 2000 West just up a little bit from 2200 south.  The pond has a small amount of riparian habitat at various locations, but specifically here.  There is some marsh/wetland type edges, and the areas surrounding the pond are all farm land.

Birding:
20-20 is a popular fall through spring stop to look for waterbirds.  Notably 24 species of waterfowl have been recorded here including TRUMPETER, MUTE, and TUNDRA SWAN.  A winter record of BLUE-WINGED TEAL is noteworthy, while GREATER SCAUP, HOODED MERGANSER, and BARROW'S GOLDENEYE have all been reported.  NORTHERN SHOVELER, CANVASBACK, GADWALL, and RING-NECKED DUCK are fairly common finds here.  The open farm lands here are great for raptors and in the winter you might find NORTHERN HARRIER, BALD EAGLE, or ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK.  SANDHILL CRANE are often seen here in the spring, while a various assortment of other species and passerine birds have been observed over the years.  This location is unique with a lot of seen once or twice species int eh songbird column.  AMERICAN GOLDFINCH, RED-WINGED BLACKBIRD, SONG SPARROW, and BLACK-BILLED MAGPIE are regularly occurring year round.

Directions:
From US-89 at 1000 West south of downtown Logan, go south on US-89 for .4 miles. Turn right onto 2200 South and go .8 miles.  Turn right onto 2000 West and continue .1 miles till you reach 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.

Talons Cove from Google Street View

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Description:
Talons Cove borders the northwest corn of Utah Lake, and provides an interesting set of habitats for birding while golfing.  You could technically bird the streets along the course here, but much like other courses in the area, this is more of a golfing destination than a birding destination, although for birding it is an excellent golf course! 18 holes of mostly open terrain, surrounded by minimal grasslands and shrubsteppe.  Small trees can be found along the course in various locations, with a few areas of thick russian olive.  2 ponds i the northeast corner of the course provide wetland and marsh habitat, and the lake is visible form the course.  Wetlands along the shore are close enough that with binoculars you could make out some species on the lake.  The front 9 is much birdier than the back from my experience here.

Birding:
Talons Cove really is a great course for birding.  The mix of habitats provides great opportunities for various species.  During the summer months is the best time to visit the course, and you'll likely encounter HORNED LARK, WESTERN KINGBIRD, and CLIFF & BARN SWALLOWS through out the course.  At the marshy areas on the ponds, you can expect YELLOW-HEADED and RED-WINGED BLACKBIRDS.  COMMON YELLOWTHROAT and MARSH WREN can usually be heard at these spots as well.  Along the lake front areas scanning you will likely see and or hear CASPIAN TERN, WESTERN GREBE, NORTHERN HARRIER, and AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN.  In the riparian areas, and the spots with dense russian olives songbirds are abound.  YELLOW WARBLER, LAZULI BUNTING, and BULLOCK'S ORIOLE are common.  BLUE GROSBEAK have been observed at the course, and prefer these area on the east edge.  Like most golf courses the access is limited to the edges, unless you're golfing--luckily here there are a lot of edges that can be birded.  If you are passing through during the summer, stop in for a few minutes and see what's singing!

Directions:
From the intersection of Redwood Road and Pioneer Crossing in Saratoga Springs, head south on Redwood Road for 3.9 miles.  Turn left onto Fairway Blvd and go 225'.  Turn left and go .1 miles to the parking lot and club house.

Looking North from Inlet Park from Google Street View

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Description:
This is the southernmost point of the Jordan River Parkway where it meets up with Utah Lake in Utah county just north of Saratoga Springs. At Inlet Park there is a dam that controls the flow of water from Utah Lake into the Jordan River. The Parkway is paved the whole way and used by walkers, runners and bicyclists. The walk from Inlet Park to Pioneer Crossing Overpass is 1.2 miles. You can continue to walk the Parkway underneath the Pioneer Crossing Overpass--as with the rest of the Jordan Rive,r we have slit eBird into sections, and a new section begins from here and goes 1.4 miles to Lehi Main Street, where you will reach the north side of Powell Lake which is another great hotspot. Also once you return to your car consider taking a spotting scope to Pioneer Crossing Ponds which is another e-bird hotspot.

Birding:
This is a good place to bird all year long. There are trees, shrubs and the river that provide food and cover and nest sites. Birds to watch out for include: RING-NECKED PHEASANT, SANDHILL CRANES, GREAT EGRET,TURKEY VULTURE, BLACK-CAPPED and MOUNTAIN CHICKADEES, YELLOW-HEADED and RED-WINGED BLACKBIRDS, NORTHERN FLICKER, GREAT BLUE HERON, BULLOCK'S ORIOLE, EVENING and BLUE GROSBEAK, PRAIRIE FALCON, AMERICAN KESTREL, AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN, COMMON and RED-BREASTED MERGANSER, BARN, NORTHERN ROUGH-WINGED and CLIFF SWALLOW (nesting under Pioneer Crossing Bridge), and WILSON'S SNIPE.

Directions:
In Utah County, at the intersection of Pioneer Crossing and 2300 West head south where the road becomes 7200 North after .6 miles. Take a right into the parking lot after .2 miles. This is just before the bridge over the Jordan River. This parking area has signs for the Utah County Radio Controlled Airplane Park. The walk from this parking area to Pioneer Crossing Overpass is .9 miles. Instead of parking here there is a smaller parking lot further down at Inlet Park which is on Saratoga Rd from here.

Thanks to Rachel LeBlanc for this location submission.

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.

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.

Public Shooting Grounds WMA photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
The WMA was established in 1928 in cooperation with the Bureau of Land Management to specifically manage for waterfowl. Public Shooting Grounds is 11,758 acres and serves as important nesting, resting, and feeding habitat for a variety of waterfowl and shorebird species. The WMA is reported as being the first area set aside for public hunting of waterfowl in the United States.  Public Shooting Grounds WMA is a freshwater wetland complex consisting of uplands, mudflats, emergent marshes, and open water habitat. The North Entrance is accessed on 7200 North southwest of Salt Creek.  The South Entrance consists of five accesses occur along SR-83 beginning approximately 8 miles west of Corinne.  Access on the area is allowed the Thursday prior to the youth waterfowl hunt and throughout the waterfowl season. Permission to enter the area outside of these dates must be requested from the area manager prior to entering the area by calling 435-854-3610.  For birding purposes almost all birding at this location is done along UT-83 at various pull offs to view ponds visible from the roadway.

Birding:
The WMA really is known for its waterfowl.  Between October and March (especially in October and March) large numbers of waterfowl use the area during migration.  Enormous flocks of TUNDRA SWAN are found here on northbound migration in March most years. At least 14 other species of waterfowl have been found here, and big numbers of AMERICAN WIGEON, NORTHERN PINTAIL, and GREEN WINGED TEAL are not uncommon during migration.  Shorebirds are also often seen in the shallow waters just off the highway.  Among the more notable finds here are SNOWY PLOVER, BAIRD'S SANDPIPER and a RUFF in December 2001.  AMERICAN AVOCET, BLACK-NECKED STILT, both species of YELLOWLEGS, WILLET, MARBLED GODWIT, and WESTERN SANDPIPER are all seen here annually. Both SHORT-EARED and BARN OWL can be found here as well.  In the drier habitats look for WESTERN KINGBIRD, SAGE THRASHER, and LARK SPARROW during the summer months.  GRASSHOPPER SPARROW has been observed and likely breeds here or nearby.  During the breeding season AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN, DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANT, CLARK'S GREBE, and FORSTER'S TERN can be found on the water, while MARSH WREN and COMMON YELLOWTHROAT are common in the reeds. and The Shooting Grounds has a nearly 100 species list and is growing.  If you're passing on your way west or east, its worth a quick stop to see what's on the water.

Directions:
From I-15 exit 365 head west on UT-13 for 2.5 miles to Corinne.  Continue west onto UT-83 for 8.9 miles till you reach the Public Shooting Grounds located on both sides of the highway.  There are various entry points along the road, as well as water viewable from the highway.

Horseshoe Sloughs from Google Street View

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Description:
Horseshoe Sloughs are a series of "oxbows" on the east side of the Bear River south of Promontory Road near Corinne.  They get their names from... their horseshoe shape.  The furthest east horseshoe is found along 2700 West and can be birded for about 1/2 a mile. It is about 60 yards across and deep enough for diving birds.  To the west there are several other bodies of water in between marsh and wetland.  Along the east side there is a little bit of riparian habitat along the road.  To the east of the road is farm land.  Once you pass the south end of the water it is farm fields on either side of the road all the way to Forest Street.

Birding:
Birders have been birding the sloughs for years.  Back in the 90's while Forest Street was under constant construction, this road was the route into Bear River MBR and received a lot of traffic.  If you are going between anywhere west of Corinne and Bear River MBR, this is a shortcut to the refuge, and there always seem to be birds here.  Checklists are scant as this was just made a hot spot recently.  From spring through fall AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN and DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANT are often seen here.  FORSTER'S and CASPIAN TERN can be seen fishing here, while various waterfowl are usually on the water edges.  CLARK'S and WESTERN GREBE use the area to fish, while MARSH WREN, COMMON YELLOWTHROAT, and RED-WINGED BLACKBIRD are common on the marsh side.  During the fall and winter, all 3 MERGANSERS can be found here at one time or another.  BALD EAGLE are occasionally see perched in the trees in the area.  The fields and open land here are good for raptors, while RED-TAILED HAWK is found year round, ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK are often here in the winter.  In the fields to the south RING-NECKED PHEASANT can be found, and SANDHILL CRANE are reliable from March through early summer.  Next time you bird the refuge swing along 2700 west and submit a checklist here to help build the species list!

Directions:
From I-15 exit 365 go west on UT-13 for .5 miles.  Hang a left onto 2600 West.  The slough is located on your right for about .5 miles.  You can continue south along 2600 West for another 1.5 miles after the slough and will eventually hit Forest Street and the Road to Bear River MBR.

Kuhni Wetlands from Google Street View

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Description:
The Kuhni Wetlands is an interesting little hot spot, tucked away just south of the East Bay golf course. These wetlands were preserved as mitigation property during the construction of the Provo airport. At one point this area was at least somewhat open for visits and field trips as evidenced by the now cracked concrete remnants of a parking lot and a fallen wooden sign welcoming visitors. It consists of a decent-sized wooded area surrounded by swamps and some open waters. To access, one should park outside the metal gate and walk around to explore. Be cognizant as the area has become overrun in recent years with indigent people and you should only proceed with caution to explore any areas beyond the gates.

Birding:
All the standard swamp species are well represented here during the breeding season. You'll hear a chorus of MARSH WRENS, and COMMON YELLOWTHROATS interrupted by the shrill cries of  SORAS and the "laughter" of VIRGINIA RAILS. During spring and fall migrations the area acts as a solid passerine trap, likely drawn to the towering Cottonwoods. WARBLERS, VIREOS & SPARROWS abound. Every time I go here I am usually the only one there and I almost always find something interesting. I'll always remember my close encounters with GREAT HORNED, WESTERN SCREECH & LONG-EARED OWLS. The water appears to be a natural spring that doesn't freeze in winter along with many of the waters around East Bay and hosts RING-NECKED DUCKS and AMERICAN WIGEON. The occasional EURASIAN WIGEON has been seen mixed in as well. Flocks of COMMON GRACKLES have visited Kuhni Wetlands in October. I highly recommend if you're in the area you explore Kuhni and the nearby East Bay golf course ponds.

Directions:
From I-15 exit 263 in Provo head east on 1860 South for .6 miles.  Turn right onto E 1910 South and follow this .2 miles.  The road curves right here and continues due south another .6 miles.  You can park here and walk to the west down the dike/closed road and Kuhni is to your south.  TO bird on the property drive another .2 miles south.  Turn right and park outside the gate here.

Provo River at River Road from Google Street View

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Description:
This spot is directly on the Provo River just North of Heber City near the intersection of Highway 40 and River Road.  Just East of the river on River Road, there is a gravel parking lot with restrooms.  There are also signs directing you to the fisherman access for the river.  There are no entrance fees, and this land that is open to the public. The land on either side of the river is marsh and wetlands, due to the Provo River Reclamation Project.  Tall trees line either side of the river creating a great riparian habitat, and beyond the marsh land are open fields that are mostly for agriculture.  This combination leads to a wide variety of birds being attracted to this spot and the immediately surrounding areas throughout the year.

Birding:
Directly along the river is an excellent place to view a number of interesting birds.  BELTED KINGFISHER are almost always perched in the trees at this location year round intently looking for fish in the river.  If you stay more than just a few minutes, you will be likely to see one swoop down in attempt to catch a fish.  Several songbirds commonly found near water also frequent the trees along the river. During the summer YELLOW WARBLER, AMERICAN GOLDFINCH, and BULLOCK'S ORIOLE can be found.  In the winter months WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW and DARK-EYED JUNCO are found.  Year round SONG SPARROW are a common find. This portion of the river is loud, shallow, and fast moving.  As such, it is a perfect habitat for AMERICAN DIPPER, and they are seen here year round.  Take a good look near some of the large rocks that protrude from the river because they often use these rocks as a perch before diving into the water in pursuit of insects. Within approximately one hundred yards on either side of the river are platform nests where OSPREY generally return each summer.  There is at least one breeding pair to the East of the river near Highway 40, and another pair is also commonly found along River Road to the West of the river.

Directions:
From the Intersection of US-40 and River Road north of Heber, head west on River Road for .3 miles.  Turn left into the parking area and park here, following the directions to Fisherman's Access.

Thanks to Case Wade for this location submission.