Discover the Wonders of St. George Birdwatching and Nature Trails

Introduction – A Birdwatcher’s Paradise in Southern Utah

If you’re looking for an exceptional birdwatching experience in the Southwest, St. George, Utah should be at the top of your list. I’ve spent countless mornings exploring the diverse habitats this area offers, from desert landscapes to lush river corridors, and I’m continually amazed by the variety of birds that call this region home.

What makes St. George special for birders is its unique position where the Mojave Desert, Great Basin, and Colorado Plateau ecosystems converge. This ecological crossroads supports an impressive diversity of bird species throughout the year. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just starting out with a pair of binoculars, the accessible birding locations around St. George offer something for everyone.

Top Birdwatching Trails in St. George

The network of trails around St. George provides excellent access to bird-rich habitats. After years of exploration, I’ve found these paths offer some of the best opportunities to spot our feathered residents:

• Coal Creek Trail – This riparian corridor is perfect for spotting songbirds, particularly during spring migration.
• Lava Flow Trail – Look for desert species adapted to the unique volcanic terrain.
• Middleton Wash Trail – Great for early morning birding with various desert birds.
• Pa’rus Trail in Zion National Park – A paved trail that follows the Virgin River, offering excellent bird viewing opportunities.
• Red Hills Parkway Trail – Panoramic views combine with good birding along this accessible route.

Many local birders I know make regular visits to the Santa Clara and Virgin Rivers, which serve as critical lifelines for birds in this arid landscape. The trails connecting these waterways provide incredible opportunities to observe everything from waterbirds to raptors.

Best Times for Trail Birding

Early mornings typically yield the best bird activity, especially during spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) migrations when species diversity peaks. During summer, I recommend hitting the trails before 9 AM to avoid the heat and catch birds at their most active.

Must-Visit Birding Hotspots

Beyond the connected trail systems, several dedicated birding locations stand out for their exceptional bird diversity:

• Tonaquint Nature Center and Park (1851 South Dixie Drive) – This urban oasis features dense vegetation that attracts bushtit flocks, warblers, and numerous other species. The nature center itself offers valuable resources for identifying what you might see on your walk. Local birders frequently recommend starting here if you’re new to St. George birding.
• Red Cliffs Desert Reserve – A spectacular location for observing desert specialists like roadrunners, rock wrens, and various raptors against a backdrop of striking red sandstone formations. This reserve showcases the unique desert birds that make our region special.
• Royal Oaks Park (1250 N 1400 W) – A local favorite where I’ve often spotted Cooper’s Hawks and various songbirds. The mix of open areas and trees creates diverse microhabitats.
• Gunlock Reservoir – When water levels are good, this area attracts American coots, various gulls, and other waterbirds. The surrounding landscape adds desert species to potential sightings.

Each of these locations has its own checklist of commonly seen birds, and visiting multiple spots will give you the most comprehensive experience of Washington County’s diverse birdlife.

Join the Local Birdwatching Community

One of the best ways to enhance your birdwatching experience in St. George is to connect with fellow enthusiasts. The Red Cliffs Audubon chapter is extremely active in our community and welcomes visitors to join their regular outings.

Their Wednesday morning bird walks are particularly popular and occur at rotating locations including:

• Royal Oaks Park (meeting at bathrooms, 1250 N 1400 W)
• Santa Clara River trails (meeting at 11027 South Dixie Dr)

These organized bird walks are led by knowledgeable locals who can help you spot and identify species you might miss on your own. I’ve found these outings to be incredibly valuable not just for spotting birds but for learning about their behaviors and habitat needs.

The walks typically cover both paved trails and dirt paths, making them accessible to most participants. Don’t worry if you’re just starting out—these groups welcome birders of all experience levels and often have extra binoculars to share.

Extend Your Birdwatching Adventure Beyond St. George

While St. George offers excellent birding opportunities, expanding your explorations to nearby areas will add even more species to your list:

• Pine Valley Campgrounds – Located east from UT 18, about 23 miles north of St. George, this higher-elevation site offers montane species you won’t find in the valley. Watch for mountain bluebirds, nuthatches, and various woodpeckers among the pines.
• Springdale Pond – Off Zion Park Boulevard (UT 9), this small but productive pond near the entrance to Zion National Park concentrates waterbirds and attracts various migrants during spring and fall.

These locations are listed in Washington County’s comprehensive birding guide and make excellent day trips from your St. George base. The elevation changes as you move from desert to mountain environments create opportunities to observe different bird communities adapted to each zone.

Zion National Park itself, while famous for its spectacular scenery, is also a premier birding destination with the Pa’rus Trail offering one of the most accessible birding experiences in the park.

Conclusion – Embrace the Natural Wonders of St. George

St. George’s combination of diverse habitats, accessible trails, and active birding community makes it a standout destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or lucky enough to live in the area, the birdwatching opportunities here provide endless discovery.

I encourage you to grab your binoculars, download a bird identification app, and hit the trails to experience the remarkable avian diversity that makes St. George special. The desert is alive with wings and songs—you just need to know where to look!