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.

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 WTP photo by Tim Avery

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

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

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

East Carbon WTP photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
Let it be said--waste water treatment ponds in rural Utah are some of the best birding locations.  If you read over Utah Birding Spots pages, you will hear this theme again and again when we talk about the ponds in any little town or remote corner of the state.  The large pond visible at East Carbon is no exception--the only open water for miles around on the arid desert this is a trap for migrating waterbirds who find themselves in need of a place to land and refuel.  The ponds are surrounded by fences, but can be viewed from a turn off at the northeast end where the gate onto the dike around them starts.  Surrounded by shrubsteppe and desert the water can be buzzing with activity in the spring and fall. It is well worth any trip the 7 miles out here from US-191/6 to check out what's on the water.  You can make a morning out of it by birding the sage flats on the way out, nearby Sunnyside Park, the junipers and foothills to the south, and Horse Canyon Road on your way back to US-191.

Birding:
For years I have missed out on this location.  I can't count the number of trips to southeast Utah where I drove past and never ventured out to East Carbon to check things out.  The potential misses are huge.  On two visits here during mid-April our group was treated to some great hard to get Carbon County birds like COMMON LOON, LONG-BILLED CURLEW, WHITE-FACED IBIS, WESTERN GREBE, and a variety of waterfowl including big numbers of RING-NECKED DUCK and LESSER SCAUP.  Lists from others during fall migration include great shorebirds like BAIRD'S and WESTERN SANDPIPER, and both WILSON'S and RED-NECKED PHALAROPE.  The surrounding sagebrush is good for SAGE THRASHER and LARK SPARROW, while migrating flocks of blackbirds sticking to the edges of the ponds and sage might include YELLOW-HEADED, BREWER'S, and RED-WINGED BLACKBIRDS. I challenge you to make it out here if you are headed from Price to parts south--you shouldn't be disappointed!

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 6.9 miles till you reach the ponds 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.

Central Valley Golf Course from Google Street View

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Description:
Central Valley golf course is a 9-hole executive style par 33 golf course located to the south and west of the Central Valley Water Reclamation Facility. The small course is all open fairways with just a handful of small trees.  There are 2 ponds along the south border along 3300 South, another pond on the west border of 900 West on the south portion of the course (this pond is behind private property so not really visible form off course), and a 4th pond in the northwest corner visible from 900 West.  The east edge of the course is bordered by a large open driving range, and then I-15.

Birding:
Central Valley is one of the least beautiful golf courses in Utah.  Located in the middle of a commercial area of the city this patch of green is sort of an oasis--but the habitat is pretty weak.  The ponds do pull a number of waterbirds though so something interesting could turn up.  When I was younger I used to golf here with friends because it was cheap.  I know I saw a number of species not on the current list, including AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN, DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANT, WHITE-FACED IBIS, and SNOWY EGRET.  The paltry bird list now includes GADWALL, AMERICAN WIGEON, and NORTHERN SHOVELER.  Songbird wise there isn't a ton of good habitat. AMERICAN ROBIN along with other urban songbirds are present, while n the summer WESTERN KINGBIRD are around, and in the winter you might come across an AMERICAN PIPIT.  You can go birding while golfing here, but in terms of just birding, you can walk the sidewalk along the south and west edges to view the ponds, which are really the only reason to visit here.

Directions:
From I-15 exit 303 for 3300 South, head west on 3300 South for .2 miles till you reach the entrance on your right.

Ben Franklin Park from Google Street View

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Description:
Also called Scott Avenue Park this tiny urban park is dominated by open grass, but surrounded by tall trees on the north, west, and south sides.  The large deciduous trees are decades old in this area.  To the east is a large nursery (Millcreek Gardens).  In the northeast corner a small pond created by Mill Creek adds a bit of water to the park, with some riparian habitat near the parking area.

Birding:
A handful of checklists show the typical urban far at this mid city location.  The riparian and wet areas here have turned up SONG SPARROW, RED-WINGED BLACKBIRD, YELLOW WARBLER, and notably MARSH WREN and SPOTTED SANDPIPER.  BARN SWALLOW might be seen overhead, while a decent sized flock of AMERICAN CROWS have been seen here.  With other larger parks and better habitat nearby this location rarely gets visited--but if you live nearby it might make a worth while after or before work stop.

Directions:
From the intersection of 3300 South and 700 East in South Salt Lake, go south on 700 East for 2. miles.  Turn left onto Scott Avenue and travel .2 miles until you reach the park on your right.

Mounds Reservoir from Google Satellite View

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Description:
Mounds Reservoir is a tiny reservoir in the middle of an otherwise arid and barren desert.  The apparently intermittent lake can be dry in some years, or parts of the year, while having small amounts of water, or being completely full at other times.  The area around the lake is shrubsteppe and barren desert, with  railroad track passing to the north.  A small amount  of poor riparian habitat, as well as wetland habitat is present here, as well.

Birding:
This apparent oasis in the desert has a small list of waterfowl including GADWALL, AMERICAN WIGEON, CINNAMON and GREEN-WINGED TEAL, and NORTHERN SHOVELER.  AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN and PIED-BILLED GREBE have been reported as well.  The surrounding desert provides habitat for GOLDEN EAGLE and PRAIRIE FALCON which may be seen soaring overhead.  HORNED LARK, LOGGERHEAD SHRIKE, SAY's PHOEBE, SAGE THRASHER, and LARK SPARROW are commonly encountered.  BLACK-THROATED SPARROW, PINYON JAY, and COMMON NIGHTHAWK have all been recorded as well.  The riparian habitat at the lake has turned up BLUE GROSBEAK and YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER and might attract some interesting migrants in spring and fall given its desolate location.

Directions:
From the intersection of Main and Center Street in Wellington, take Main Street east 2.3 miles. Turn right onto Ridge Road and go .3 miles.  Take a left onto Farnham Road and got 8.7 miles.  You will arrive at the reservoir on your right.

No Photo At This Time photo by Utah Birders

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Description:
The Ranch and Pond hotspot in Montezuma Creek Canyon is just one of several private properties located in the canyon that provide excellent birding.  This notable location is just 1.6 miles north of Around the World Road on Montezuma Creek Road.  On the west side of the wash, a small abandoned home, with several out buildings sit on the west side of the road. Surrounded by cottonwoods and other trees and shrubs, the house is backed by cliffs and desert scrub.  On the north end of the property is a stable and old water tank.  On the east side of the road is a large pond lined with cottonwoods, russian olives, and various other shrubs and plants.  A thick marsh habitat often blankets part or most of the pond, depending on how low or high the water is.  The entire area is surrounded by dry desert making this a tiny oasis about 300 yards west of the creek and main treeline in the canyon.

Birding:
The ranch pond in Montezuma Creek Canyon has been a reliable spot for BLACK PHOEBE for a number of  years now.  Although this species occurs in the eastern part of the state, it is still sparsely reported.  I have seen pairs here on almost every trip hanging around the pond.  A small variety of waterfowl have been observed, notably HOODED MERGANSER, RUDDY DUCK, GREEN-WINGED TEAL, and RING-NECKED DUCK.  Looking to the sky WHITE-THROATED SWIFT, VIOLET-GREEN, CLIFF, and NORTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOWS might be present.  There has been a GREAT HORNED OWL here in the past, and occasionally WILD TURKEY are seen in the vicinity.  BLACK-THROATED SPARROW are a permanent resident, as well as ROCK and CANYON WREN on the nearby cliffs.  Various other songbirds have been recorded here including LINCOLN'S SPARROW, BULLOCK'S ORIOLE, and WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE.  Birding is best here between April and June, and then probably not to shabby during fall migration.  I like to park along the road and just walk the entire length of the property checking out the trees and shrubs, and giving the pond a good look.

Directions:
From the intersection of Main and Center Streets in Blanding head south on Main Street for 1.8 miles.  Turn left onto 1800 South/Browns Canyon Road. After 1.1 miles turn right onto Perkins Rd/Rte 2416/Universe Road. Follow this for 4.2 miles then keep right at the split on CR-206/Around the World Road for 14.3 miles till you reach Montezuma Creek Road.  Hand a left and continue north 1.5 miles to the ranch and pond.

Monticello WWTP photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
Clay Hill Road is a side road in the town of Monticello that leads form down town through a rural sub division dotted with oak and juniper, several family farms, and mostly private property, until you reach the towns waste water treatment ponds on the east end.  The drive is less than 2 miles from end to end and can be done in a couple minutes--the ponds are the main reason to visit this area for birds.

Birding:
If you look in eBird you'll notice the month of April has a pretty good data set from this location--I have been here almost every week of the month over the years and never leave town without driving this road to see whats at the ponds on the east end.  I have never found anything really noteworthy, but there are some usual suspects.  Waterfowl are usually a target here, and amongst the CANADA GEESE and MALLARD there have been GADWALL, AMERICAN WIGEON, CINAMON and GREEN-WINGED TEAL, NORTHERN SHOVELER, RING-NECKED DUCK, LESSER SCAUP and RUDDY DUCK here.  EARED GREBE round out the waterbirds.  TURKEY VULTURE are almost always seen in the ravine leading out of town here, while GOLDEN EAGLE and COOPER'S HAWK have been observed too.  SAY'S PHOEBE are typically present, while HAIRY and DOWNY WOODPECKER have both been found.  WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCH, BEWICK'S WREN and WESTERN BLUEBIRD are worth mentioning. And both COMMON RAVEN and AMERICAN CROW are often seen here. Over 50 species have been seen here in just a handful of trips by various birders.  It's one of those easy to make side stops when birding in the area, and I highly recommend it.

Directions:
From the intersection of Main and Center in Monticello head south on Main Street for .3 miles. Turn left onto 300 South and go .4 miles. Take the slight right and you are on Clay Hill Road which continues 1.3 miles where you can stay left and drive 100 yards to the water treatment ponds.

21st Street Pond from Google Street View

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

Links at Overlake from Google Maps User

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Description:
The Links at Overlake is a Scottish links style course featuring 11 water hazards, 79 sand bunkers and beautiful native grass measuring a total of 7,248 yards.  The links pond and lake habitat combined with grassland and shrubsteppe created an interesting mix of habitat that resembles native Utah valley habitat.  The fairways and greens of course are grass so things aren't quite perfect.  In terms of birdable golf courses, this is a great course to go birding while golfing at.  There are actually 14 ponds on the course  which is surrounded by grasslands, farms, and now some houses.

Birding:
I've only been to the links one time, but on a windy cold May morning I tallied 52 species while focusing on golf.  Some notable things were that there were at least 3 species of shorebirds nesting along the course edges: LONG-BILLED CURLEW, WILLET, and KILLDEER.  The birds were very approachable and seemed used to people being there.  All 6 regularly occurring species of SWALLOW in Utah might be seen here during migration and during poor weather, are easy to view low over the water.  The numerous ponds create lots of habitat for various waterbirds.  11 species of waterfowl were seen here including GREATER SCAUP--the water on some ponds is deep enough for divers, and more species of ducks probably pass through here.  CINNAMON TEAL, NORTHERN SHOVELER, and LESSER SCAUP were all fairly common in May.  3 species of GREBES and as well as FORSTER'S TERNS can be found here using the water to fish.  Along the course expect to see RED-WINGED and YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD, WESTERN MEADOWLARK, SAY'S PHOEBE, and WESTERN KINGBIRD.  If you come here to go golfing, you'll end up doing a lot of birding--and I can't say that's a bad thing!

Directions:
From the Flying J off I-80 Exit 99 take UT-36 south for 6.8 miles. Turn right on to Cimmarron way and go 1 mile. Turn left onto 400 west and go .8 mile to the turn on your right to the golf course parking lot.

Old Farm from Google Street View

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Description:
Old Farm, also known as Hills Pond consists of several ponds in an area that historically was farm land in Salt Lake Valley but is now an apartment complex.  Currently the Fox Point Apartments surround the ponds, and birders don't visit very often.  Historically there isn't a lot of information about the ponds, but during the early 2000's the location was visited with some frequency during the winter months.  The center piece is one large circular pond south of the club house on Old Farm Road.  To the southwest of it is a narrow off shoot pond that stretches about 100'.  There are several other small waterways around the property but the main pond is most often birded.  There are 100's of apartment units, and traffic in and out is usually busy.  Large old deciduous trees cover the property.  Various shrubs and bushes also provide great ground cover.  Around the ponds there is plenty of cover for birds to hide, and the southwest pond often has overhangs.  Technically the property is private, but I have never had an issue birding here.  Simply drive in and park int he lot on the south side of the club house and walk to the pond across the road/

Birding:
Back in the early 2000's birders came here frequently in the winter months when WOOD DUCKS seemed to be an easy find.  No reports of this species have come in form here in a decade, but I think that more has to do with lack of birders checking it out.  MALLARD and CANADA GOOSE are common and other birds found in urban environments are in no short supply  MOURNING DOVE, LESSER GOLDFINCH, and AMERICAN ROBIN are common here, and there are probably quite a few species that pass through during the spring and the fall.  If you live nearby it might be worth stopping in once a week to see what's using the water. I would imagine a pretty good list of birds from here is possible.

Directions:
From the intersection of 3900 South and 700 East, head south on 700 East for .3 miles. Turn right onto Old Farm Road and go .2 miles to the parking area on your right.

The Pond from Google Street View

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Description:
The pond along lower Kolob Terrace Road has long been a stop on the drive to Lava Point and Kolob Reservoir.  This large pond doesn't freeze, and provides an excellent stop for wintering and migrant waterbirds here in the middle of the desert.  The riparian habitat provides great viewing opportunities on the road side of the pond, while the cottonwoods on the back side can be scanned with binoculars.  A large set of farm fields lies to the north, while the east and west sides are red rock and dry hillsides.  Although some birds from the surrounding desert can be seen/hear here--the focus is the pond and riparian habitat.

Birding:
If you're driving up to Lava Point or Kolob Terrace you have to stop here even if just for 5 minutes.  Any time of year there is something to be seen/heard for birders.  From November through April various species of waterfowl have been observed here--in all 12 species have been recorded including WOOD DUCK, CANVASBACK, and HOODED MERGANSER.  One of the most common waterfowl species encountered here are RING-NECKED DUCK all winter Several grebes have been sighted here, but the most interesting waterbird reported was an AMERICAN BITTERN.  With little in the way of shorebird habitat only SPOTTED SANDPIPER has been reported.  Raptor there are scattered reports of both species of EAGLES, a couple accipiters, and not much else.  From spring through summer there are some good birds that can be picked up here on most outings.  BLUE GROSBEAK and YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT can usually be found along with SUMMER TANAGER, BULLOCK'S ORIOLE, LUCY'S WARBLER, and COMMON YELLOWTHROAT.  During spring and fall migration various warblers and sparrows are reported here--with LARK SPARROW, LAZULI BUNTING, VIRGINIA'S WARBLER, and WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE being reported.  SAY'S and BLACK PHOEBE, along with ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER and WESTERN KINGBIRD are usually easy finds here.  BLACK-THROATED SPARROW, and CANYON and ROCK WREN can be found here as well straying in from the bordering habitats.

Directions:
From the Post Office in Virgin, Utah, go east on SR-9 for .1 mile.  Turn left onto Kolob Terrace Road.  Drive 3.4 miles and the pond will be on your left.

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.

Draper Pond from Bing Birds Eye View

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Description:
Also known as Brown's Pond this location is mostly surrounded by private property.  Homes on most sides with the National Guard having property on the rest.  There are several points you can view into the pond form and even one drive that seemed to welcome visitors if they park on the street.  The large pond is the biggest body of water in Draper making it somewhat of an important stop over site for migrant waterbirds.  Some riparian habitat can be found along the edge, but it is mostly like a city park.

Birding:
This is one of those under-birded urban locations that might hold some gems.  I have always had a hard time trying to Bird here because the south end although open to view is on a private road leading into the National Guard property--with signs saying no trespassing.  I haven't attempted to talk to the folks on the northeast corner, but it looks like they might welcome visitors--but ask if you do try to enter the pond grounds from here.  What I have found best is to park on the south side of the LDS ward parking lot to the east just past the south end of the entry gate to the National Guard.  Form here you can scope the water and see what is roosting on a large spit of land on the west side of the pond.  If you go explore please comment below if you find other vantage points.  Waterfowl are the main draw with HOODED MERGANSER begin found here in the past.  AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN, DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANT, terns, grebes, and other diving birds use the pond during migration.  During Fall through spring large numbers of CANADA GEESE Are often seen coming and going to this location, so they are worth checking for something mixed in.  Otherwise this location needs some love in terms of whats found here.

Directions:
From 12300 South in Draper turn south onto 300 East for .8 miles till you reach the church on your left--this is the location I mentioned to scan the pond from.  The pond is actually northwest of here on the west side of 300 east between 12800 south and 13000 south. Alternatively you can take 300 east north from 13800 south until you reach the church at 13000 south.