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.

Lower Price Canyon photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
The lower portion of Price Canyon in Carbon County follow US-6 along the Price River along the floor of the canyon.  The sometimes steep cliffs are interspersed with canyons, ravines, and in some places rolling hillsides covered with a  variety of habitats including: shrubsteppe, mixed oak woodlands, juniper woodlands, and various coniferous woodlands, dominated by Ponderosa pine.  Some small deciduous patches of aspen and cottonwood may be found along the river along with willow for some riparian habitat.  Most birding int he canyon is done by car, with few birders stopping to explore along the road.  It can often be loud making for a hard time hearing birds.  You can venture into some of the side canyons for more dense habitat and to get away form traffic.

Birding:
There are only a handful of checklists form the canyon.  This lower stretch is often hard to bird in, but if you make your way into a small side canyon you might be able to find a few things.  Species like ROCK WREN can be found on the cliffs, and CANYON WREN are probably also present.  Along the river during the summer months FOX and SONG SPARROW along with YELLOW WARBLER might be tracked down.  There are probably AMERICAN DIPPER in the river, but there are no reports.  Various waterfowl have been reported, but I think some of this is actually from higher up the canyon in a different county where the river flows across wide open spaces littered with beaver dams making large ponds.  The habitat in the canyon in Carbon County doe not have nay of this.  COMMON RAVEN and RED-TAILED HAWK are seen on a regular basis as are BLACK-BILLED MAGPIE and AMERICAN ROBIN.  GOLDEN EAGLE may be seen soaring over the ridge year round, while BALD EAGLE are present in the winter months.

Directions:
From the on ramp at Exit 240 on US-191/6 in Price, head north on US-191 for 8.4 miles till you reach the mouth of the canyon.  From here you can continue another 9-10 miles in Carbon County in the lower portion of Price Canyon along US-191/6.

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.

Foy Lake photo by Tim Avery

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

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

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

Monticello Lake photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
Monticello Lake is a small 5 acre lake on the north slope of the Abajos, surrounded by mixed oak and aspen woodlands.  The open slopes are dominated by this habitat, while the peaks of the Abajos linger to the south. Conifer stands mixed in nearby, along with riparian habitat along Spring Creek to the east, provide a variety of habitats.  There is a dirt road along the west side of the lake, along with a pit toilet.  Access is limited to when the snow melts in the spring, and when it arrives again in the fall.  Typically by the time the lake is accessible the ice is gone. In order to get a better picture of the status and distribution of birds in the area, this location along with others along Road 101 on the north slope have been split out into their own locations. A nice drive out of Monticello and you can bird Dalton Springs, this lake, Road 101 along the slope, and end up on the west at Foy Lake.

Birding:
In the past people have birded Monticello Lake while birding the North Slope of the Abajos, but the new hot spot was only just created in 2015.  The birding in the area looks like it would be awesome during the summer given the great range of habitats here.  The actual lake is so small that there are never a ton of birds on it, with CANADA GEESE and MALLARDS usually present when the water is open.  Other waterbirds will show up form time to time during migration, including EARED GREBE.  The surrounding open habitat usually has a few MOUNTAIN and WESTERN BLUEBIRDS, while WILD TURKEY are occasionally seen on the road nearby.  Looking at the nearby habitat I would assume you can pick up YELLOW WARBLER, LAZULI BUNTING, and DUSKY FLYCATCHER along nearby Spring Creek.  The hills to the south are going to have your regular mountain fair including WARBLING VIREO, HERMIT THRUSH, CHIPPING SPARROW, WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE and other Aspen specialists.  The coniferous portions should have a variety of finches, woodpeckers, etc.  Birders don't tend to make it down here in the summer, so what might actually be here is still pretty wide open of discussion.  If you find yourself in Monticello in June or July do yourself a favor and make your way in to the Abajos and see what you can find!

Directions:
From the intersection of 200 South and Main Street/US-191 in Monticello, head west on 200 south for .3 miles.  Turn left onto Abajo Drive, which after .4 miles turns into Creek Road heading west into the mountains.  Continue another 7.1 miles till you reach Monticello Lake on your right.

Carbon Country Club photo by Tim Avery

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Description:
Located midway between Helper and Price, Carbon Country Club is where you will discover the alluring beauty of the Utah frontier sculpted into a one-of-a-kind golf experience. Set within chiseled mesas and rocky valleys, play our golf course that continues to be an oasis for golfers and is open for public play to those who appreciate great golf. There are two main areas you can visit to go birding without golfing, and they are the Club House Drive and the large pond on the south end of the course (directions below).  At the main drive to the clubhouse large trees can be viewed at eye level to the north.  The Price River runs through the course creating a nice riparian habitat--combined with the planted deciduous and coniferous trees the course has plenty of habitat.  Surrounded by desert, and barren cliffs and hills the course really is an oasis.  Ont he south end a large pond  can be seen--while the back streets to get there pass agricultural fields, and several tree lines worth checking.  You can spend a short amount of time here and cover both areas relatively quickly and thoroughly.

Birding:
Carbon County remains largely underbirded, and this easy to access location is one that any birder passing through can take a couple minutes to check out.  We didn't expect much but on a quick April stop had an early migrant COMMON YELLOWTHROAT in the parking area at the clubhouse.  Various species of SWALLOWS might be seen out over the course here, while during migration, WARBLERS, WESTERN TANAGER, and other passerine migrants should be viewable with trees at eye level.  YELLOW WARBLER breed here, along with SPOTTED TOWHEE, and MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRD.  Migration is probably the best time to visit in either May or September, with the possibilities wide open given the lack of birding done here in the past. Since we haven't spent much time here, it might be worth checking in at the Club House, or at least calling and asking if its oaky to bird around the club house area--who knows you might be able to expand on where you can go here.

Directions:
So there are two locations to get to and we will cover them both form here.  Heading north on US-191/6 from Exit 240 in Price, go 3.6 miles, taking a right onto Carbonville Road. Go .3 miles and turn right onto 2500 North.  After 1 block the take the right and the road will curve to your left and go under US-191. There is a large pond here on the course. The other area is at the main club house which can be accessed by going back on to US-191 and continuing another .4 miles north then turning left onto Club House Drive. If you were coming out of Price Canyon you can also access these location from US-191.

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.

Grove Creek Canyon from Google Street View

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Description:
Grove Creek Canyon is located at the extreme east end of 500 North in Pleasant Grove (Utah County).  Scrub oak, rabbit brush, sagebrush, and thickets of squawbush make up most of the habitat at the mouth of the canyon.


Birding:
The mix of bird species at Grove Creek Canyon changes with each season. Spring and summer are, by far, the most productive seasons for birding the canyon. Common spring and summer species include COOPER'S HAWK, WHITE-THROATED SWIFT, BLACK-CHINNED and BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD, a variety of FLYCATCHERS and VIREOS, HOUSE WREN, BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER, WARBLERS, CHIPPING SPARROW, WESTERN TANAGER, BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK, and LAZULI BUNTING.  COMMON POORWILL are often heard singing right at and just after dusk during summer evenings. Fall brings migrant raptors and feisty RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRDS as they make their southward migration.  Winter can be slow in the canyon, but ROSY FINCHes are sometimes seen moving in flocks along the hillsides and above the canyon.

Some of the year round species include NORTHERN FLICKER, WESTERN SCRUB-JAY, SPOTTED TOWHEE, BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEE, AMERICAN KESTREL, BLACK-BILLED MAGPIE and GOLDEN EAGLES which are regularly seen soaring above the canyon and its surrounding peaks.

Directions:
If driving south on I-15 from Salt Lake County take SR 92 (Timpanogos Highway) east to the mouth of American Fork Canyon and turn south on North Canyon Road. Follow this road south into Pleasant Grove and turn left (east) at 500 North. Follow 500 North all the way to the parking lot at the mouth of Grove Creek Canyon.  Alternatively, from State Street in Pleasant Grove head north on Canyon Road. Turn right (east) at 500 North and follow the road to the parking lot at the mouth of the canyon.

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.

Battle Creek Canyon from Google Street View

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Description:
Battle Creek Canyon is located at the extreme east end of 200 South in Pleasant Grove (Utah County). The parking area at the mouth of the canyon is a mix of dirt and gravel. Dirt trails lead from the parking area in several directions. Crossing the foot bridge to the north, over a stream bed, leads to a small park and pavilion called Kiwanis Park. The trail straight east from the lot goes into the canyon. This trail will lead you to a nice waterfall that is about 40' high and a little less than a mile from the trail head. It is a great hike for families and small children as it follows the stream up the canyon to the waterfall with slight elevation gain. Additional trails go south from the parking lot and are primarily used by hikers and cyclists. Scrub Oak is prominent with a mix of maple and other trees.


Birding:
The mix of bird species at Battle Creek Canyon changes with each season.  Common spring and summer species include COOPER'S HAWK, WHITE-THROATED SWIFT, BLACK-CHINNED and BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD, a variety of FLYCATCHERS and VIREOS, HOUSE WREN, BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER, WARBLERS, CHIPPING SPARROW, WESTERN TANAGER, BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK, and LAZULI BUNTING.  COMMON POORWILL are often heard singing right at and just after dusk during summer evenings.

Fall brings migrant raptors and feisty RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRDS as they make their southward migration.

Winter can be slow here, but some specialty birds can be found.  The faint, high-pitched calls of BROWN CREEPER are often heard as they forage along the trunk and main branches of the mature trees around the pavilion. ROSY FINCH are sometimes seen moving in flocks along the hillsides and above the canyon.  WESTERN SCREECH and NORTHERN SAW-WHET OWL inhabit the trees at the mouth of the canyon and along the foothills during winter as well. The Saw-whets are pushed down from their preferred habitat during hard winters.

Some of the year round species include CHUKAR on the hillsides, CALIFORNIA QUAIL, NORTHERN FLICKER, WESTERN SCRUB-JAY, SPOTTED TOWHEE, BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEE, AMERICAN KESTREL, GREAT HORNED OWL and GOLDEN EAGLES which are regularly seen soaring above the canyon and its surrounding peaks.

Directions:
If driving south on I-15 from Salt Lake County take SR 92 (Timpanogos Highway) east to the mouth of American Fork Canyon and turn south on North Canyon Road. Follow this road south into Pleasant Grove and turn left (east) at 200 South. Follow 200 South all the way to the parking lot at the mouth of Battle Creek Canyon.  Alternatively, from State Street in Pleasant Grove head north on Canyon Road. Turn right (east) at 200 South and follow the road to the parking lot at the mouth of the canyon.

Daniel's Summit from Google Street View

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Description:
Daniel's Summit has become a popular winter destination for snowmobilers, with the Summit Lodge catering to this niche.  During the summer months OHV and horse riding is a popular activity replacing the winter sports here.  A restaurant and gift shop are available if you have any food or drink needs.  The Uintah National Forest can be accessed to the south and north here, while Lodge Pole Campground sits just down canyon.  Aspen and mixed conifer forest dominate the habitat here, with mountain meadows and various montane riparian habitat.  At the summit the lodge sits on the southwest side of the highway while a number of private residences sit to the northeast.   A wet pasture at the lodge is the extent of the other habitat here.  There is a forest service road accessible about 1/4 miles south that follows Hobble Creek to the west  behind where the lodge is.  The habitat here is shrubsteppe with forest rising off to the sides of the meadows and flats.  Various forest roads can be accessed from the area providing great opportunities to get away from the main road.  If you are headed to Strawberry Reservoir you will pass the summit--so it might be worth a short stop to check things out!

Birding:
Birders typically don't trek here in the winter.  I'm not sure if there are feeders, but if there were, they could attract some good high elevation species in search of food.  Summer is the ideal time to visit to get away form the hot valleys and enjoy the mountains.  The summit is really a tourist destination for OHV users, but the surrounding forest provides plenty of birding opportunities.  Form June through September you will be able to find the species typical of the aspen habitat in the area like: RED-NAPED SAPSUCKER, WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE, DUSKY FLYCATCHER, WARBLING VIREO, HOUSE WREN, HERMIT THRUSH, YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER, CHIPPING SPARROW, and WESTERN TANAGER. In the meadows and sage flats you can expect to see MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRD, SAGE THRASHER, VESPER SPARROW, and BREWER'S SPARROW.  If you make your way into the forest where there are pine you will come across PINE SISKIN, CASSIN'S FINCH, MOUNTAIN CHICKADEE, and RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH.  The area is really great for birding and fairly typical of most similar habitat in the area.  If you  are looking to explore some place new, the side roads here might make a good day trip.

Directions:
From the intersection of Main and Center Streets in Heber, follow Main Street / US-40 south for 17.4 miles up Daniel's Canyon till you reach the summit and lodge on your right.

Comb Wash photo by Google Maps User

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Description:
Comb Wash is a valley in southeastern Utah that runs from Elk Ridge in the north approximately 35 miles to the south, where it merges with the San Juan River at an elevation of about 4200'. The eastern edge of the wash forms steep cliffs of Navajo Sandstone, rising in places to 1000' above the valley floor. On the western edge of Comb Wash is a series of canyons draining Cedar Mesa. To the north is Arch Canyon, which has Texas Canyon as an upper tributary. In the central section are Mule Canyon, Dry Wash, and the combined outlet of Fish and Owl Canyons. To the south are McCloyd's Canyon (containing the Moon House ruin) and Road Canyon. Scattered throughout these canyons are cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloans.  State Route 95 crosses the northern part of Comb Wash, while U.S. Route 163 crosses further south. Running along the wash is a primitive road, often impassable after floods. Nearby are the Natural Bridges National Monument, the Grand Gulch Primitive Area, the Valley of the Gods scenic area, and Goosenecks State Park.   Tha habitat in the wash bottoms is desert riparian dominated by Fremont Cottonwood and and understory of willows.  Shrubsteppe borders the floodplain which leads to some juniper woodlands and then the cliffs.

Birding:
Comb Wash is another area that could be considered the Beaver Dam Wash of southeast Utah.  It's remote, and few birders go there, so the species list is still relatively small.  But the potential for major rarities during migration seems high.  The desert habitat makes the tree line in the wash a bit of a migrant trap, and the whole area somewhat of a migrant highway. Birders that have visited generally are between April and October when the tourist season is at its height here.  If you are passing between Natural Bridges and parts east you pass through the wash so its worth even a quick stop. As with most riparian strips in southeast Utah this is a good and reliable location for LUCY'S WARBLER. Two other warblers are also rather common with YELLOW WARBLER and YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT being found on most summer visits.  BLACK-THROATED SPARROW inhabit the river bottom here and can often be heard singing along the road.  BLUE GROSBEAK and LAZULI BUNTING can both be found usually, and I suspect there might be localized Indigo Buntings here given their prevalence at such sites in southern Utah.  Other common breeders include: BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER, PLUMBEOUS VIREO, and ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER.  ROCK, CANYON, and BEWICK'S WREN are all found here year round.  Occasionally things like BUSHTIT, PINYON JAY, and CASSIN'S KIGBIRD are reported. Fall migration definitely brings migrants through with early to mid September looking like a real good time to visit.  Some migrants recorded here include: ORANGE-CROWNED, MACGILLIVRAY'S, and WILSON'S WARBLER; BREWER'S, VESPER, LINCOLN'S, and WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW; WESTERN TANAGER and BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK.  During the summer at night you can find COMMON POORWILL, and possibly COMMON NIGHTHAWK which are occasionally seen during migration.  WESTERN SCREECH-OWL are year round residents of the wash as well.  I like birding south of the highway where some very thick patches of cottonwood can be found.  There are also great sites to the north though.  You could spend days here and not cover all the great spots as there is lots to discover.  Birding can be done form the road, or by walking int he river bed; or a combination of both.  The road can become impassable after flash floods, so keep that in mind when visiting.

Directions:
From the intersection of Center and Main Streets in Blanding head south on Main Street for 4 miles.  Turn right onto SR-95 and go 14.1 miles dropping into the wash.  Here you can turn left and follow a dirt road south through the wash.  Alternatively you can continue .1 mile west then turn right and take a dirt road north in the wash.

Cedar Hills Golf Club from Google Street View

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Description:
Cedar Hills Golf Club is an interesting location nestled against a juniper covered hillside on the east, along the foothills at the base of the Wasatch Mountains.  The north side of the course is bordered by the American Fork River, while subdivisions pop up to the south and west.  Just a hop away from the mouth of American Fork Canyon, the mouth of which can be seen form the course, providing looks at the cliffs and some riparian habitat.  The open course has some shrubsteppe to go along with the juniper, but it really is mostly open fairways.  The rocky river bottom lack any substantial riparian habitat along the course except int he northeast corner.  There are 5 ponds on the course, of which most can be viewed from public roads.  While the majority of the holes are in the northwest section, the back 9 do a loop along the mountain then south around a large neighborhood before wrapping back west to the club house. This strange triangle shaped subdivision is essentially an island surrounded by golf course.

Birding:
I've only been birding here once, while golfing a number of years ago--but I remember the birding was good.  On the various ponds aside from the CANADA GEESE and MALLARDS there were a good mix of late April waterfowl migrants still present including GREATER SCAUP, CANVASBACK, and COMMON GOLDENEYE.  Looking skyward here you will probably see TURKEY VULTURE and RED-TAILED HAWK along the mountains.  SWAINSON'S HAWK are present in the summer and during migration you could see any number of raptors soaring past.  WESTERN KINGBIRD and WESTERN MEADOWLARK roam the open fairways here, while WARBLING VIREO, SPOTTED TOWHEE, and SONG SPARROWS keep to the fringes where oak and other deciduous trees are more prevalent.  Along the river in the open areas BREWER'S, VESPER, and LARK SPARROW were present, while in the northeast corner where the best riparian habitat is, FOX SPARROW can be found, along with BULLOCK'S ORIOLE, and YELLOW WARBLER.  Migrant songbirds can be found in this area too, and WESTERN TANAGER, as well as other warblers might be seen.  Although not in eBird I know there are reports of YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT from the river at the mouth of the canyon.  In the summer look for COMMON NIGHTHAWK in the evening feeding over there area.  If you like birds and golf, I highly recommend playing a round here in late April through May or in the fall.  If you just want to birding you can do a lot on the edges, including scan the ponds and some of the open habitat.

Directions:
Form I-15 Ext 284 at Thanksgiving Point head east on SR-92 for .2 miles.  Take the slight right onto the SR-92 express lane and go 7.1 miles.  Right before the mouth of the canyon, take a right onto Canyon Road and go south .8 miles. Turn right onto Bayhill Drive and go .3 miles.  At the traffic circle take the 1str exit onto Nielsen Blvd. After about 250' turn left onto Clubhouse Drive and continue .2 miles to the parking area.

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.

Fitts Community Park from Google Street View

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Description:
This tiny park is surrounded by urban sprawl.  The suburban South Salt Lake neighborhoods have lots of old deciduous trees planted decades ago and now towering over the streets.  The park is bordered on the south by Mill Creek and it looks like they've created a canal that loops through the park back to the river.  Walking paths follow the edge and cut through the park, with a couple small playgrounds and family friendly area along the south side.  Picnic tables, benches and open spaces dominate the landscape, while the riparian habitat along the creek provides some good habitat.

Birding:
A pair of checklists show just 9 species typical of an urban environment.  This location sits just a couple blocks from the more productive Nibley GC so comparatively the birding here is going to be less productive. BREWER'S BLACKBIRD and DARK-EYED JUNCO make up the most notable sightings from here.  During migration this might be a decent spot to check in the city.  I assume YELLOW WARBLER breed here, and who knows what might pop up along the creek.

Directions:
From the intersection of 3300 South and 700 East in South Salt Lake, head west on 3300 South for .3 miles. Turn right onto 500 East and go north .3 miles till you reach the park on your left.