5th West from Google Street View

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

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

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

Kuhni Wetlands from Google Street View

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

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

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