Birdwatching

It is well known that Utah is a great place for birders! But did you know that in and around the Corridor there are some amazing, year-round birdwatching destinations? Well, there are! From the scenic Energy Loop Drive to the Desert Lake Waterfowl Management area, there are abundant trails, overlooks and picnic spots that offer great bird viewing.

The Energy Loop Scenic Byway, that goes up and around the Huntington and Eccles Canyons is a popular year-round destination for birders, with sightings ranging from song birds to bluebirds. The reservoirs, lakes and streams are great habitats for birds, and the area offers numerous hiking/walking trails for visitors to enjoy. Look up into the pines and across the lakes to spot soaring eagles, red-tail hawks and more. During the warmer months, waterfowl call the lakes and reservoirs home, so pack a picnic and claim a table by the water's edge, just don't forget the binoculars.

The Desert Lake Waterfowl Management area located south of the Corridor just outside the small town of Elmo, on the way to the Cleveland Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry at Jurassic National Monument. The lake is a sanctuary for ducks, geese, shorebirds and songbirds as well as game birds and various wildlife. The area features several bluffs overlooking Desert Lake, providing great viewing of the birds below.

Gordon Creek, best known for the waterfalls that fall in the gorge, outside of Helper is another great place to see a wide variety of birds. The Gordon Creek State Wildlife Management Area is a Pinyon-Juniper habitat that follows the North Fork of Gordon Creek. As you get up into the mountains the vegetation shifts to firs and aspens. During breeding season the area is filled with birds, if you brought your camera, walk up to the bridge over the river to snap some beautiful shots of the creek. If you are lucky you might get a shot with a warbler or steller's jay in it... but no promises.

Fish Creek and Scofield Reservoir not only offer a little solitude from the hustle and bustle of every day life, but also offers great bird sightings. Explore the trails and take the time to dip your toes in the creek or choose a campsite at the reservoir and stay a night or two. Sightings may include flycatchers, warblers and more.

The Price Canyon Recreation area outside of Price is a mountain escape with picnic tables and campsites. The forest is full of ponderosa pines, maples, box elders and mahogany trees, and hidden amongst the foliage are a wide variety of birds. Be sure to walk the Bristlecone Ridge trail and take in the stunning views of the area.

Short on time? Take a stroll down the River Walkway in Helper. The paved walkway stretches over a mile along the Price River and on a quiet day, you can hear the songs of the many bird species that visit the area.

 

Featured Location

Exploring the Energy Loop
Go by car, by bike or on foot. This loop has it all, streams, lakes, reservoirs, and so much more!

Price Canyon Recreation Area
Easy trails with great pay-off moments - birds, vistas, and beautiful pines.