The red cliff-rimmed mesas on the north side of the La Sal Mountains above Castle Valley are an excellent place to observe the many bird species associated with pinyon-juniper habitat. The south end of Fisher Mesa has scattered ponderosa pine, but the main part of the mesa is dominated by mature, diverse stands of pinyon pine and Utah juniper. The area is easily accessed via paved road from Moab and includes a pleasant hiking/mountain biking trail along the east rim of Fisher Mesa. The Bull Valley Overlook, just beyond the end of the pavement at a large pullout, is an excellent location to observe the cliffs running for several miles above Fisher Valley. The pullout is at the head of Bull Canyon.
In addition to pinyon-juniper birds such as Black-throated Gray Warbler, Juniper Titmouse, and , there is an excellent opportunity to observe migratory raptors during fall months. Spring access is often limited by lingering snow. Along the cliffs, look for Golden Eagle, Turkey Vulture, Violet-green Swallow, and White-throated Swift.
HABITATS
Pinyon-juniper woodlands and rock cliffs.
FEATURED BIRDS
Golden Eagle, Pinyon Jay, Juniper Titmouse, Black-throated Gray Warbler, Violet-green Swallow, White-throated Swift, and Canyon Wren.
SEASON
Best during summer and fall.
LOCATION
From the US-191/UT-128 junction just north of Moab, drive 16 miles to the northeast on UT-128. The road follows along the south side of the Colorado River (site #35). Turn right (south) on the La Sal Mountain Loop Road through Castle Valley. In approximately 12 miles the road forks. Instead of remaining on the La Sal Loop Road, drive east towards Gateway for 7 miles to FR-601 and the Fisher Mesa Trailhead. The Bull Valley overlook is another half mile east.
GPS COORDINATES
Bull Valley overlook is 38º 36′ 56″N, 109º 13′ 22″W.
NOTES
Loose sand and gravel can make footing dangerous, don’t walk too close to the high cliff edges.