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.

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 State Park photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
Green River State Park is located in the town of Green River and consists of a nine-hole golf course, a campground shaded with cottonwood trees, and a boat ramp into the actual Green River which borders it on the east side. The campground which covers the southwest 1/3 of the park is a huge migrant trap with the biggest trees is the area.  Along the river the dominant species of tree is russian olive, with various other trees and shrubs including: willow, salt cedar, cottonwood, and other deciduous trees.  The riparian habitat is along a natural north-south migrant route following the river.  Sand bars, and beaches here provide more habitat, along with the obvious river habitat which ranges form shallow to deep enough to accommodate diving birds.  There are actually 5 ponds on the golf course as well, all of which can be viewed from roads or trails.  While the boat ramp provides the best views of the open water on the river, you can walk along the shoreline north and south as well to bird the river.  As this is a state park there is an entrance fee.

Birding:
Of the 4 public birding locations in Green River, the State Park as of this writing has the biggest species list, and the most number of visits.  It is also the biggest location, and easiest to access with the most varied habitats.  On the flip side it is also the busiest site due to the campers, golfers, and other outdoor enthusiasts that want to venture far enough form the big city, but not quite to the great outdoors.  In any event the bird species here are varied, and the biggest draw in my opinion is that the camp site is a huge migrant trap.  The large stand of trees is a centerpiece to the park.  Year round you'll find AMERICAN ROBIN, HOUSE FINCH, both LESSER and AMERICAN GOLDFINCH, and NORTHERN FLICKER.  Other species that are present year round may include HORNED LARK, COMMON RAVEN, and WESTERN MEADOWLARK. Both GREAT HORNED and WESTERN SCREECH-OWL call the woodlands here home.  During the winter months DARK-EYED JUNCO and WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW move in.   On the river in the winter months COMMON and HOODED MERGANSER are present, while other waterfowl might be seen as well.  During spring and fall migration a variety of waterfowl, shorebirds, and waders are possible along the river. During spring and fall migration you could put together a pretty good day list with the combo of the waterbirds and the migrants.

Even with the birders that have visited the migrant list isn't enormous.  There are a handful of surprise species that have shown up here late during the fall months including BROWN CREEPER, MOUNTAIN CHICKADEE, TOWNSEND'S SOLITAIRE, WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCH, and RED-NAPED SAPSUCKER.  During the breeding season there are a few species that make a stop here worthwhile, including BLUE GROSBEAK, YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT, ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER, along with the more common LAZULI BUNTING, BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK, and BULLOCK'S ORIOLE.  I suspect September into October could be very productive here for migrants.  Spending some time scouring the grounds could easily push the area list over 100 species by adding various sparrows and warblers that absolutely pass through.

Directions:
From the intersection of SR-19/Main Street and Broadway in Green River, head east on Main Street for .4 miles. Take a right on Green River Blvd and go south for .5 miles to the park entrance.  Take a left into the park and you can continue .2 miles to the parking area at the boat ramp and go birding from here.

Green River Crossing photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
The Main Street River Crossing is a quick stop to scan the river for waterbirds, and others in town.  The easiest location to view is from behind the trading post on the north side of Main street and east of the river.  Here you can see a large sandbar in the river (unless there is very high water).  From the south side of Main, also on the east side of the river you can also try to get a vantage point on the river and sandbars there.  The surrounding land is arid desert and sparse farmland--it's not great habitat.  The river provides shoreline, and obviously water ranging form shallow near the sandbars, to relatively deep stretches.  The riparian habitat bordering the river here is dominated by russian olive, with a variety of willow, cottonwood, salt cedar, and other shrubs and trees mixed in.  Since all the viewing locations are on business property please be mindful of the owners.

Birding:
A small list of species has been built up here in recent years.  Since the view locations aren't really in view, most birders skip through without making a stop. From the view on the river you will probably see CANADA GOOSE on most visits, while GADWALL, MALLARD, and GREEN-WINGED TEAL are also reported occasionally.  During migration keep an eye out for mergansers--COMMON MERGANSER are reported with some frequency.  Both GREAT BLUE HERON and BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON are seen from time to time.  Although there are no reports of GREEN HERON, it certainly could be found skulking here.  OSPREY and NORTHERN HARRIER may be seen hunting along the river in the summer months, while BALD EAGLE are present in the winter.  Shorebirds use the sandbars on the river when available--with SPOTTED SANDPIPER being seen regularly during migration.  Keep an eye out for other waterbirds. FORSTER'S TERN have been reported as well--but in general the few visits haven't produced a hug number of species that are known to use the waterway.  BLUE GROSBEAK, BULLOCK'S ORIOLE, YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT, and WESTERN KINGBIRD can be found here in the summer, while swallows swarming over the water during migration can produce all 6 regularly occurring species. As with the other 3 birding locations in Green River, just about anything could show up here.

Directions:
From the intersection of Broadway and SR-19/Main Street in Green River, head east on Main Street for 1.3 miles.  Once you cross the river you can get to two different view points.  Turn left and drive to the north end of the parking lot behind the trading post and park.  Here you can walk behind the building to the west back to the river over look.  You can alternatively turn right into the parking lot at the restaurant and hotel and try to access a view from various locations here.

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.

Crescent Junction photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
Crescent Junction (or Brendel) is a small unincorporated community located at 4,882' on I-70 at exit 182 named for the crescent-shaped formation of the Book Cliffs in the area. Most highway maps use the name Crescent Junction, as the name given to the junction of Interstate 70 and U.S. Route 191. Most railroad maps use the name Brendel, the name of the rail siding and junction at the same location.  The town came to be when the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad constructed its main line through Eastern Utah in 1883.   Over time two buildings were constructed, a gas station and restaurant.  There are several small patches of trees surrounded completely by arid desert and shrubsteppe.  The trees act as a mini-migrant trap, while the open habitat surrounding is similar throughout the area.  The rest stop to the west on the south side of the interstate is only accessible to east bound traffic and sits on a bluff overlooking the junction.  The habitat here is dry desert and is mostly used as a bathroom stop for tourists using the interstate.

Birding:
Between the two locations making up this "hot spot" over 20 species have been observed.  Year round COMMON RAVEN, WESTERN MEADOWLARK, and HORNED LARK may be encountered in the open desert.  At the junction starlings, House Sparrows, and House Finches are a common sight.  During the summer LARK SPARROW, SAY'S PHOEBE, WESTERN KINGBIRD, and SWAINSON'S HAWK might be seen.  During migration in the spring and the fall various passerine species could be encountered at the tiny patches of trees at the junction.  WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW, CHIPPING SPARROW, VIOLET-GREEN SWALLOW, and LESSER GOLDFINCH have all been observed.  Most birders skip over a stop here, if heading to Moab and parts south.  If you happen to be on your way to or from the southeast, a quick stop to check the trees might turn up something interesting in the spring or fall.

Directions:
From I-70 Exit 164 in Green River head east on I-170 for 16.3 miles.  Here you can take the off ramp to the rest area on the bluffs to the south. If you stay on I-70 and continue another .9 miles take Exit 182, then turn left at the bottom of the off ramp.  Crescent Junction is on the north side of the interstate here.

Sunnyside Park photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
Sunnyside Park is a small community park in Sunnyside, just east of East Carbon, with the Book Cliffs bordering town on the east.  The park is made up of a large grassy area bordered on the south by a riparian area and intermittent creek.  South of the riparian area is an overgrown tract including russian olives.  The riparian area is primarily cottonwoods and willow with a dense understory.  The park has scattered tall deciduous trees as well.  There are restrooms in the southeast corner and a large picnic area/pavilion in the middle of the grassy area.  During hte spring and fall, this park should be a bit of a migrant trap in the desert.  A quick stop here is only a minute or two out of the way if driving the loop from US-191 through the Sage Flats, East Carbon WTP, the foothills and junipers, and Horse Canyon Road back to US-191.

Birding:
Another out of the way location that has a lot of potential.  May and September are probably the best time of year here, when migrants heading north or south are looking for places to spend their days.  The large trees and natural funnel of the riverway probably lead to quite a few passerine species using the park.  Various warblers have been recorded here including YELLOW-RUMPED and ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER during early spring migration. YELLOW WARBLER are probably found here most of the summer, while YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT are possible.  Any of the typical warbler migrants in Utah probably show up annually.  WESTERN TANAGER, BULLOCK'S ORIOLE, BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK, and LAZULI BUNTING can probably be found as well.  The potential for a big find here is huge given the location, especially in relation to the Book Cliffs during migration.  In the winter months NORTHERN PYGMY-OWL has been observed here.  The habitat looks like it might be good for WESTERN SCREECH-OWL as well.  Given there are only a handful of checklists from here any stop will likely turn up new species for this current list!

Directions:
From the on ramp at Exit 243 in Price, head south on US-191/6 for 13.3 miles. Turn left onto SR-123 and continue 9.7 miles. Take a right on to Valley View Drive/the parking area for the park.

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.

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.

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.

Sunset at Highland Glen photo by Jeff Cooper

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Description:
Highland Glen is a community park situated between North County Boulevard (4800 W) and Alpine Highway (Hwy 74) in the city of Highland (Utah County). The park's main feature is a pond that is maintained as an urban fishery by the Division of Wildlife Resources. Paved walking trails allow visitors to stroll through the entire park and several habits. A creek called the American Fork River along the west side of the park provides riparian habitat.  A small grove of mostly scrub oak on the northeast corner of the pond and a mix of trees and shrubs on the south end of the pond and park invite a wide range of bird species. Agricultural fields border the east and southeast edge of the park.

Birding:
The peak birding season for the park is during spring migration when waterfowl gather on the pond and hummingbirds, warblers, tanagers, flycatchers, and grosbeaks pass through and breed in the park. Common migrants during spring and often during fall migration include a variety of flycatchers, CASSIN'S, PLUMBEOUS, AND WARBLING VIREOS along with an array of warblers including ORANGE-CROWNED, NASHVILLE, MACGILLIVRAY'S, YELLOW, BLACK-THROATED GRAY, and WILSON'S.

Some of the breeders in the park are MALLARD, CALIFORNIA QUAIL, MOURNING DOVE, BLACK-CHINNED HUMMINGBIRD, NORTHERN FLICKER, WESTERN SCRUB-JAY, BLACK-BILLED MAGPIE, BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEE, BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER, SPOTTED TOWHEE, and BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK. 

The agricultural fields east of the park are home to WESTERN MEADOWLARK year round. CASPIAN TERNS and OSPREY are commonly seen hunting over the pond during the spring and summer months. The songs and appearances of LAZULI BUNTINGS add color to the park during the summer. SPOTTED SANDPIPERS can be seen making their twitchy, low-level flights from one side of the pond to the other when park visitors draw near as they enjoy their summer strolls around the pond.

The park is relatively quiet from a birding perspective during winter months, but those who are attentive may discover the winter roost of a WESTERN SCREECH-OWL if they scope out holes in the larger deciduous trees in the park.  SHARP-SHINNED and COOPER'S HAWKS regularly hunt for the year-round residents during early morning hours in the park. The pond often presents open water during winter months where less common WOOD DUCKS and RED-BREASTED and COMMON MERGANSERS may be found. The agricultural fields south of the east entrance to the park welcome large flocks of CANADA GEESE which have included CACKLING and white geese. HORNED LARKS are also regularly seen alternatively foraging and taking short flights in the same fields during the winter.

Directions:
The park can be accessed from the east and the west sides. Take W Cedar Hills Drive heading west from North County Boulevard (N 4800 W) to enter from the east side of the Park. Lone Peak High School will be on your right just before you drop down into the park. Go left through the small roundabout and drive down into the park.  You can also enter the park from Alpine Highway (Hwy 74) by turning east on 10130 N and parking in the lot at the west entrance to the park.

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.

Entrance to Swede Lane from Google Street View

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Description:
Swede Lane is a road adjacent to River Lane, that passes through mostly agricultural land, as well as marsh and wetland, with some riparian habitat, eventually leading to Utah Lake.  Swede Lane doesn't have nearly the riparian habitat that is found right next door, but the mix of open habitats, disturbed land, and adjacent wetlands makes for a good drive. Like River Lane the first mile follows farm land, before hitting marsh and wetland.  The riparian habitat can be found in patches along the entire road, all the way to the lake, but it's not continuous, and mostly consists of russian olive. There is actually a connecting road between the two locations making for a quick jump from one to the other instead of having to drive back to the highway.

Birding:
Birding here often has the feel of being at a WMA or other wetland habitat--around 20 species of waterfowl have been observed here including ROSS'S GOOS, TUNDRA SWAN, and BLUE-WINGED TEAL.  From the end of the road viewing the lake its not uncommon to see AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN, DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANT, and both WESTERN and CLARK'S GREBES.  All three White egrets in Utah have been observed here.  During the spring when the fields near the entrance are sometimes flooded CATTLE EGRET are often seen with large flocks of WHITE-FACED IBIS.  Scan those ibis carefully, as in recent years GLOSSY IBIS have been found mixed in.  The open habitat here is usually a pretty good spot for raptors.  During the winter months BALD EAGLE, ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK, and MERLIN can usually be found here.  During the summer SWAINSON'S HAWK are common here.  With nearly 20 species of shorebird being reported here this location has turned up some great birds like PECTORAL SANDPIPER and BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER. SOLITARY SANDPIPER show up occasionally during migration in the wet areas along the road as well.  During the summer months both WESTERN and EASTERN KINGBIRD can be found on the drive--other passerine species are less plentiful i the summer months, but YELLOW WARBLER is quite common; while BLUE GROSBEAK, BULLOCK'S ORIOLE, and COMMON YELLOWTHROAT are also found.  One of the best finds at Swede Lane has to be the BAIRD'S SPARROW on September 9, 2011.  I found this bird, then relocated it once and got a decent shot of it.  During the fall sparrow flocks here present a great opportunity to find rarities mixed in.  VESPER, LARK, and BREWER'S SPARROWS are plentiful and LARK BUNTING has been found in the mix.  Swede Lane isn't the hot spot that River Lane is, but it certainly has its fair share of good birds.  Birding here by car is easiest; getting out at various points to walk the road work as well.  Parking at the end of the road and walking back is a good way to bird the best riparian habitat as well.

Directions:
From I-15 Exit 260 in Springville go west on Rte 77 for 3.9 miles. Take the sharp turn on your right heading due north.  This is the start of Swede Lane. Follow this road for till it turns left and then comes to a T--about .4 miles.  If you were to turn left here this little side road would connect you to River Lane--but to continue birding Swede Lane, turn right and follow this road as it continues another 1.1 mile till it dead ends at a parking lot at the lake.

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.

Old Mill Park from Google Street View

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Description:
Old Mill Park and Holding Pond is a small park tucked away along Big Cottonwood Creek in Cottonwood Heights.  Just a mile from the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon the park has a great walking path that run the length of it east to west.  The path continues west along the creek after the park, and east as well to the canyon.  The habitat along the path is mostly riparian as it follows the river.  There are houses on either side of the park to the north and south but sitting in a gully the park is still very wild.  Near the west end is the large holding pond which the creek runs through.  Usually in the spring the pond is filled with run off creating a great resting stop for migrant waterbirds.  Most of the year it has little to no water--often the creek running through it is the only water.  The path goes all the way around the pond here, with a bridge over the river at the inlet.

Birding:
Old Mill Park is an infrequently birded location that has turned up some interesting birds.  The large pond is the main feature and when full could be a great spot to check for waterfowl.  Several RED-BREASTED MERGANSER were seen here during migration in April 2009. Large flocks of swallows may be present in harsh weather during migration as well with easy feeding over the open water. All 6 species have been seen here in the past.  During the breeding season you can expect to find LAZULI BUNTING, YELLOW WARBLER, BULLOCK'S ORIOLE, and SONG SPARROW along the riparian habitat.  During the winter keep an eye out for AMERICAN DIPPER that have moved from the fast flowing mountain streams into the calmer waters here in the flats.  Some notable finds here in the past include a large flock of BOHEMIAN WAXWING in the winter of 2010-11; a flyover OSPREY, which could probably be found most years as a migrant; and a pair of COMMON GRACKLE migrating through in April 2009.  Passing through this area, it might be worth a quick stop to see what's on the  water, or if you're looking for a short walk, the trail here makes for great early morning birding.

Directions:
From I-215 east side belt route take exit 6 east bound on to 6200 South/Route 190 for about 400' then take the right onto 3000 east.  Go south to the light at 6485 south/Big Cottonwood Canyon Road and turn left.  Follow this road for .3 miles till you reach the parking area on your right.

Garr Ranch from Google Maps Contributor

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Description:
The Fielding Garr Ranch is a ranch located on the southeastern portion of Antelope Island State Park at Garr Springs which is one of the strongest and most consistent springs of the 40 known springs on the island.  The ranch was initially established in 1848, the year after the first Mormon pioneers arrived in Utah.  This location is no secret to birders who have been coming here for decades due to the migrant trap conditions the ranch creates.  With its location jutting out on the east side of the island, the large stand of cottonwoods, russian olives, and various other deciduous trees is an oasis on the island and the Great Salt Lake.  The springs at the main ranch are surrounded by thick riparian habitat with wetland habitat on the east side.  To the north and west are dry hillsides, grassland, and shrubsteppe.  To the south are large agricultural fields with 2 more springs surrounded by small patches of russian olive as well.  A large picnic area just south of the parking lot as a huge lawn with no undergrowth, but a great canopy with trees over 60' tall.  Between the main spring and the springs to the south is a large wild field that has had a big brush pile in the center for a number of years.  The field is lined around the edges by trees which provide easy viewing.  East of the small wetland on the edge of the ranch are vast dry lakebed where the Great Salt Lake formerly came to the shores of the island.

Birding:
Birding on Antelope Island during the spring or fall mean a visit to Fielding Garr Ranch, referred to by birders as just "Garr Ranch". This migrant trap has had no shortage of rarities of the years and is as a reliable place as it comes for various migrants.  The trap quality of the location has had its share of fallouts and when birding here you never know what you might find. Over 200 species have been recorded at the ranch--the most famous of which has been a long staying pair of GREAT HORNED OWL that have nested here year after year.  The ranch staff takes great pride in sharing this info with birders and non birders alike. Interestingly the ranch has played host to quite a few owl species with BARN and LONG-EARED OWL also showing up every once in a while.  Both FLAMMULATED OWL and NORTHERN SAW-WHET OWL have been observed during fall migration on multiple occasions.  But the owls aren't the reason birders come here--its the passerine species.  EMPIDONAX FLYCATCHERS are always a treat with all 5 of the regularly occurring Utah species present in spring and fall for side by side study.  LEAST FLYCATCHER has shown up here as well--while ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER and EASTERN PHOEBE although not empids have been seen as well.  The SOLITARY VIREO complex is also a fall favorite here with CASSIN'S VIREO being a regular migrant--this may be the single best location for this species in Utah.  With those Cassin's there have been several BLUE-HEADED VIREO.  This is often a complex identification with the range of Cassin's Vireo's here coming from almost Plumbeous to basically Blue-headed.  Many more Blue-headed are reported than have actually been documented.  VEERY has been seen here, while VARIED THRUSH is reported with some frequency; perhaps not annually but pretty close to it.  The star of the passerine show is no surprise though--its the wood warblers. With at least 21 species reported here the list is impressive.  Big flights in the fall of WILSON'S WARBLER make it an easy find here.  While NASHVILLE WARBLER is all but guaranteed in late August and early September.  TOWNSEND'S WARBLER are usually findable here in the fall as well, all the way into October.  The springs attract NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH most years in the spring and the fall making it the most reliable location in Utah for this species.  AMERICAN REDSTART are occasional as are BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER.  The rarest of the bunch include sightings of: TENNESSEE, MAGNOLIA, BLACKPOLL, BLACK-THROATED BLUE, YELLOW-THROATED, and CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLERS.  Other colorful passerine species have also popped up from time to time with ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK being recorded several times, along with INDIGO BUNTING. One of the best birds to show up was a PAINTED BUNTING that showed well over 5 days in 2013.

Birding here is easy. Strolling through the grounds there is always something to look at.  AN easy way to bird is starting at the parking area and birding the trees to the northeast along the back of the stables.  These open trees often have flycatchers and warblers during migration. Working south walk along the main entrance south of the barn towards the ranch house.  There are usually hummingbird feeders here in the fall which attract the 4 regularly occurring migrants in August and early September.  RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD is often a constant this time of yeah and the feeders allow close views.  A RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD was photographed here in 2010 visiting the feeders.  From the house walk east past the spring house through the gate towards the wet areas. At the gate look right and there should be a large bird feeder although it seems to rarely have feed in it.  On your left is a usually damp "stream bed" where Waterthrush are occasionally seen.  Straight ahead is a small pond that runs into a mostly wetland area heading east.  Bird activity is usually quite good right here.  Walking back toward the spring house and then going south through the trees is a great spot to look for vireos and Nashville Warbler.  If you go back west around the south end of the springs the trees are very thick and birds are often zipping around high above your head here.  If you walk all the way back to the spring on the east end you might spot a VIRGINIA'S RAIL coming out of the marsh.  This is also where the GREAT HORNED OWLS often roost in the trees.  Turn around and head south along the fence line and you'll be in a large field.  The trees surrounding the field to the east and south are often good for empids and warblers, as well as WESTERN TANAGER.  The large brush pile in the field is a good spot to check in the winter for sparrows. WHITE-THROATED and "RED" FOX SPARROW have both been seen here.  Heading south through the gate its a short walk to the next set of springs where waterthrush tend to show up from time to time as well.  You can continue further south to the last spring as well before turning around and heading back to the field with the brush pile.  Often in the northwest corner near the ranch house there are LARK and other SPARROWS depending on what time of year you visit.  Head into the picnic area and you can bird the trees here fairly quickly.  RED-EYED VIREO has been seen here on several occasions.  You're back at the entrance and if you've been thorough you've probably seen most of the birds here.

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. At the sign where the road splits stay left and continue up the hill till you see the turn off on your left to Garr Ranch.  Turn left and follow this road 10.6 miles.  Garr Ranch will be on your left when you arrive; pull into the parking area and you're there.

Callao from Bing Birds Eye View

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Description:
Callao is a small farming community in northern Snake Valley, along the border of Juab County (the best birding is in Juab County in the center of town) and Tooele County, Utah, United States. It was part of the original Pony Express overland route, and was first called Willow Springs in 1860. E. W. Tripp, his wife and son, were the first to establish residence there, in 1870. In 1895 it was decided that Willow Springs was too common a name, and a new name would be chosen. The name Callao was chosen because of a resemblance to Callao, Peru, suggested by an old prospector in the region who was working out of Gold Hill to the north.  Consisting of a few ranches, the mostly agricultural landscape is surrounded by vast and barren desert.  In town the large 100+ year old Cottonwood Trees, along with numerous shrubs ans smaller trees provide an excellent riparian habitat used by migrants--making Callao a prime migrant trap in the west desert often visited while birding Fish Springs NWR located nearby.

Birding:
Biridng is usually done here just during spring and fall migration after or before a visit to the refuge 20 or so miles away.  The main east-west street through town passes several homes with large trees where migrants tend to flock to as they fly across the open desert. There are also large patches of Russian Olive on the east end of town which make great trap habitat. Birding from the road is easy, just make sure not to trespass onto any private property here as the locals like their privacy.  During both spring and fall you can expected warblers, tanager, flycatchers, vireos, and other passerine species here.  YELLOW and YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER are standards, while WILSON'S, MACGILLIVRAY'S and ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER also show up regularly.  YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT seems to show up every so often, and with enough visits and diligence you might turn up an eastern vagrant like BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER which has been observed here.  All regularly occurring EMPIDONAX FLYCATCHERS in Utah have been observed here on either end of migration; while CASSIN'S VIREO may be seen during fall migration.  Not surprising there are also some oddball shorebirds and waterbirds that have been seen here with any small amount of water in canals, or from the watering of fields, birds like BAIRD'S SANDPIPER and WHIMBREL have been reported here.  The possibilities are endless for what might show up here.  Given the remote locations and true migrant trap qualities, it likely sees quite a few vagrants--it just doesn't see very many birders to find them!  Next time you visit Fish Springs in the spring or fall make the extra 50 mile round trip over to Callao and see what you can find.

Directions:
From the entrance to Fish Springs NWR, go north on the Pony Express-Overland Stage Trail.  Follow dirt road for 23 miles till you reach Callao.

4400 West looking north from Google Street View

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Description:
4000 West is an access point for Rock Island Waterfowl Management Area.  All the birding here is done along the road which can be walked.  The habitat is typical wetlands on the south shore of Utah Lake, with some drier more grassland type habitat as well as shrubsteppe.

Birding:
Birding can be done very easily here by parking and walking at various points.  Theoretically you could drive into the north end, park, and walk back to the road birding by foot.  Waterfowl, shorebirds, divers, other waterbirds, and various neotropic migrants can be found here during the spring and fall.  Some notable species that have been seen here include HARRIS'S SPARROW, NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH, GLOSSY IBIS, and GREATER SCAUP. Potential for fallout here with some good Russian Olive patches--these trees have produces a multitude of unexpected songbirds here including OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER, WESTERN TANAGER, VIRGINIA'S WARBLER, NASHVILLE WARBLER, and BLUE GROSBEAK.  If you're birding nearby Swede or River Lane, its worth a couple minutes extra drive to stop here and see what is around.

Directions:
From I-15 exit 260 in Springville go west on 400 South for .4 miles. The road will jog to the left here--continue for another 3.5 miles. The road will go south another .3 miles.  Turn Right onto UT-77/440 South and follow this as it becomes 3200 West for another 1.4 miles before turning right on 5200 South.  Follow this for 1 mile till you reach 4000 West. Turn Right here and you can look for birds for a mile as the road goes north until it dead ends at the lake.

3200 West looking North from Google Street View

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Description:
This road leads through open fields, pastures, and some shrubsteppe. There are also small amounts of water visible from the road. Both sides of the road are private property but birding can be done from the road. A Jordan River access view point at 3300 North near 2200 West is really good for waterfowl and other waterbirds as well.

Birding:
3200 West north of the airport provides some of the best open "Grassland" birding in Salt Lake County.  Luckily it is unlikely this are will be developed any time soon so the opportunity to bird these fields should remain for some time.  Raptors can be found here year round, with FERRUGINOUS HAWK and GOLDEN EAGLE being fairly reliable.  In the winter look for ROUGH-LEGGED HAWKS, and for a number of years a BALD EAGLE nest was visible to the northeast of the road.  Various waterfowl can often bee seen here in the wet areas and along the Jordan River to the northeast.  LARK, SAVANNAH, and BREWER'S SPARROW can be found during the summer. VESPER SPARROW are often seen during migration, while a GRASSHOPPER SPARROW was seen here once in late May.  CATTLE EGRET have also been recorded here during migration, as have a wide variety of shorebirds in the wet areas. Birding is best early and late in the day, but you can find birds from dawn till dusk.

Directions:
From I-215 west side belt route taking exit 25 west bound for .9 miles along 2100 North.  Turn Right onto 3200 West. You can drive the road north for 2.1 miles till you hit a farm. Just before you reach this is 3200 North which can be birded west to 2200 West and loops south back to 2100 North.  The Jordan River can be accessed from 3300 North if you go left from 3200 North at 2200 West.