When it comes to vacation destinations that you don’t want to miss, Moab, Utah is a must-see! This scenic and inspiring stop is a great place to embrace the beauty of the great outdoors and enjoy dining and shopping in style too. Of course, it’s also a wonderful place to wildlife watch if you’re the type of traveler that’s up for a bit of an adventure and a walk on the wild side! The following are the top 5 spots to watch wildlife in Moab that you’re going to want to make sure you check out the next time you’re here!
Colorado River Scenic Byway
The mountains, arches, rivers, and canyons that make up the Moab landscape offer an ideal habitat for many species of birds. If you’re an avid bird watcher make their way to Moab at any time of the year, a trip along the Colorado River Scenic Byway offers up an amazing opportunity to make the most of observing a variety of incredible winged creatures. More formally referred to as the UT-128 Corridor, this stretch hosts the confluence of the Dolores River and the Colorado River. The result is lush and dynamic terrain where birds can thrive. During the winter, this area is a haven for bald eagles. Year-round, visitors can expect to be able to spot golden eagles, great blue herons, osprey, ravens, waterfowl, and blue grosbeaks too. Those with a keen eye may be able to spot a peregrine falcon or two as well.
Canyonlands National Park
Everyone who makes their way to Moab deserves to spend some quality time in iconic Canyonlands National Park. This captivating natural destination is an amazing place to grab photos of sweeping canyons and cliffsides, but it’s also home to a plethora of wildlife as well! While you’re here, you’ll find yourself in the midst of a habitat that can support upwards of 50 mammal species. Some of the more common sightings in the park include mule deer and kangaroo rats. Beavers are often noticed along the banks of the Green River which runs through Canyonlands. Larger animals like mountain lions, bighorn sheep and black bears are rare, but very viable sighting options in the park, particularly around the Needles section.
Arches National Park
When it comes to recognizable destinations in Moab, Arches National Park is definitely at the top of the list. This park is home to over 2,000 stunning stone arches that have long been pursued by captivated audiences from near and far. While the arches have a firm place in the hearts of travelers, time spent in Arches National Park is also an opportunity to encounter some wildlife along the way as well. Arches National Park is home to snakes, lizards, kangaroo rats, mountain lions, bats, owls and beyond! A trip here is one that’s well worth packing your binoculars for.
Scott M. Matheson Preserve
Sitting on the outskirts of Moab, the Scott M. Matheson Wetlands Preserve covers a sprawling 875 acres of land and provides visitors with a prime bird-watching destination to enjoy during their Utah getaway. The Matheson Wetlands is thought to be home to more than 225 species of birds which can be observed from the many winding trails that grace the preserve as well. Across the marsh, riparian, and open water, visitors can view everything from indigo buntins and yellow-breasted chat to great-tailed grackle, plumbeous vireo, and more!
La Sal Mountain Loop Road
Of all the birding trails that run through Moab, visitors with a passion for watching the skies for winged creatures will love every moment spent on the La Sal Mountain Loop Road. Not only does this loop provide access to some truly stunning scenery, but it’s a place that puts you close to some breathtaking bird species as well. The landscape that constitutes the La Sal Mountain Loop Road is primarily made up of aspen and mountain brush. Within this combination, bird species such as the green-tailed towhee, Virginia warbler, and western bluebird flourish!
Of course, the opportunities for observation don’t end there. If you keep your eyes peeled, this area also showcases American three-toed woodpeckers, western scrub-jays, and vesper sparrows too. Not to mention the red-naped sapsucker that can be seen by the keen-sighted amongst the bird watchers that head this way.
Enjoy Your Moab Adventure
Your Moab adventure promises to be one-of-a-kind, so what are you waiting for? Whether you’re in town to take advantage of the great outdoors or can’t wait to indulge in a luxurious and restful stay, it’s a place that promises to bring the best of it all. Knowing you have accommodations to match makes it all the better. Let the team at Empty Spaces Vacation Rental Management handle your home away from home so you can focus on the fun. Reach out today to learn more and to start planning!
