You can see all kinds of Utah wildlife in these spots!
If you’re looking for something to do over spring break, or maybe you’re itching to step outside and soak in the beauty of nature, don’t just admire the scenery. Now is the perfect time to get an up close look at Utah’s local wildlife. From scenic trails to hidden wetlands, there are a lot of places to spot animals in their natural habitats.
Natalie Ockey shared the best local spots where you can soak in the scenery and experience wildlife up close.
Why Spring is the Best Time for Wildlife Spotting
Spring is a one of the best times to spot wildlife. “There are baby animals. That is my absolute favorite thing about spring are the cute little ducklings and the baby animals,” Natalie said.
Also, the trees and plants haven’t fully bloomed, which makes it easier to spot animals that aren’t hidden behind foliage. “I feel like it’s prime spotting time,” Natalie mentioned. “They’re not hidden behind the leaves or the bushes quite yet.”
Top Wildlife Spots in Utah
Eccles Wildlife Center and Farmington Bay
Located in Farmington, just minutes away from Lagoon, the Eccles Wildlife Center and Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area are fantastic places to see a variety of birds and other wildlife. “Our favorite thing to do is to walk on the nature trail that leaves from the little nature center, and you can see turtles, we saw a fox the last time we visited and all sorts of birds,” Natalie highlighted.
Antelope Island, Syracuse
Antelope Island is a must-visit for wildlife lovers. “This is like the number one day trip I recommend all the time because it is amazing. There’s so much to see and do there,” Natalie emphasized. You can spot bison, antelope, and several different kinds of birds.
However, Natalie advised avoiding the island during spring due to biting gnats: “They usually are here from about mid-April to mid-June,” she said.
Bear River Bird Refuge, Brigham City
Just outside Brigham City, the Bear River Bird Refuge is a fun spot for bird watchers. The visitor center has backpacks for kids with magnifying glasses and nets to catch butterflies. “It’s super cute that they let you borrow them,” Natalie noted. They also have a nature trail and a big drive that goes through the wetlands and ponds out by Salt Lake.
Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter, Park City
In Park City, the Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter provide interactive exhibits and trails. “My kids love crawling in the little cave or playing with the little hands-on exhibits,” Natalie mentioned. They have a fun viewing area with binoculars a lot of fun little animals to see, and some fun little trails you can do.
Tracy Aviary, Salt Lake City
Located in Salt Lake City, Tracy Aviary is a beautiful natural setting and has an impressive bird show. “They teach you so much and the birds fly right into the audience over your head,” Natalie shared.
There is a new part of the aviary, located a little ways away on 33rd South. “ It’s free to go. They have a little visitor center and it’s along the Jordan River, so you can go and view wildlife there as well,” Natalie explained.
Mehraban Wetlands Trail, Draper
A hidden gem in Draper, the Mehraban Wetlands Trail is a spot to see turtles and baby ducks. It’s right in a neighborhood and is pretty quiet. “Every time I go, I’ve never seen anyone there, so I love that,” Natalie said.
Tonaquint Nature Center, St. George
In St. George, the Tonaquint Nature Center is a favorite for families. “ Every time I go to St. George, my boys ask to go there,” Natalie said. There is a pond and some trails down to the river. Natalie’s family has seen kingfishers and wood ducks at this spot.
Find more recommendations from Natalie on Instagram, @utahsadventurefamily, or at utahsadventurefamily.com.
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