The wetlands were created to mitigate the loss of riparian habit when the Jordanelle Reservoir was created in the 1990s. As part of the effort, the Provo River (flowing from the reservoir) was returned to a winding river and dikes were built to create several wetlands. All of this is part of the Provo River Restoration Project.
The site is south of the Jordanelle dam and a bit north of Heber UT.
When I arrive, the main parking is full so I park on the side of the entrance road. Looks like a lot of folks fishing this morning.
It's in the low 60s when I start down a trail to the south of the parking lot but soon realize, the path is really for those fishing. So I try the north trail. There's a boardwalk so it must be the place to start.
As I cross the boardwalk, I scare up 2 Duskywings but they disappear quickly.
Despite the algae patches, the marsh water is clear and there are many, many cattails with their fuzzy seed heads from last season.
And good views of the dam.
There are many trees along the trail including many that are flowering.
And with the trees, I hear and see lots of birds. I can ID the Gold Finches, Yellow Warblers, and Red-winged Blackbirds.
Not many flowers blooming yet with the exception of patches of Blue Flax.
And of course, I came for the butterflies and I do see a few Cabbage Whites, Spring Azures
and Western Tailed Blues.
And yes, I finally do catch up with one of those Duskywings - Rocky Mt Duskywing.
I'm on a loop trail but I take a spur trail heading north to the dam. It takes me close to the Provo River.
But I don't go far before turning around and completing the loop.
I was hoping for more butterflies and a few dragonflies but the season is still earlier. I'll be back!
On my way out, I decide to drive up the road to the north parking lot for the trail. Along the way, I see two birds of prey jostling in the air. Pretty cool!
Just before the north parking is a campground/park -- lots of green grass and trees. Nothing special at the north lot other than it is much closer to the dam.
I turn around and start heading out when I notice a Sandhill Crane walking through that campground/park! Oops, it's a family of Sandhills - Dad, Mom, and baby! So cute!!
It's my first baby Sandhill Crane sighting!! Awesome!
Time to held home. I'm passing by both the Mormon Trail and Lambs Canyon. Where do I want to stop next?
