b

Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve

Utah  >  United States

Preserve with a mix of fresh and salt water marshes, ponds and mudflats. The area is home to over 200 species of birds.

Added* by Ruth Carmona-Murray
Most recent update 18 decembra 2025
This birdingplace has not been rated yet. Click here to be the first to rate this area with 1 to 5 stars

Description

The Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve is a protected wetland along the eastern edge of the Great Salt Lake. The mix of fresh and salt water marshes, ponds and mudflats, make a rich feeding and nesting ground. Many migratory birds pass through the area. The preserve's one mile winding walkway and 30 foot observation tower provide a birder with prime birdwatching opportunities year round. It spans 4,400 acres of wetlands and uplands habitat along the east side of the Great Salt lake, with educational exhibits around the walkway and an open pavillion. Stunning views from the observation tower.

Look for American Avocet, Black-necked Stilt, Sandhill Crane and White-faced Ibis. Other birds you can observe include Virginia Rail, Sora, Wilson's Snipe, American White Pelican, Northern Harrier, Western Kingbird, Horned Lark, Marsh Wren, Yellow-headed Blackbird and Western Meadowlark. You can also see large numbers of waterfowl, including Redhead, Cinnamon Teal, and Gadwall.

Details

Access

The Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve is located in Layton, about 28 miles north of Salt Lake City. The visitor center is open every day: March to October: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. November to February: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is free. From Salt Lake City take I‑15 northbound and exit at 332 (Layton Parkway/Gentile Street). Press P on the map for directions to the parking lot. From there you can walk the one mile walkway. The walkway is made out of trestle wood, there are areas to seat along the walkway. It takes about an hour to walk around.

Terrain and Habitat

Wetland , Valley , Pond , Grassland , Mud flats , Agriculture

Conditions

Flat , High water possible , Dry , Wet , Slippery

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

No

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Spring , Spring migration , Autumn migration

Route

Unpaved road

Difficulty walking trail

Average walk

Accessible by

Foot , Wheelchair

Birdwatching hide / platform

Yes

Links

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

Top 5 birds

Other birds you can see here

Show more birds Show less birds
Show more images Show less images

Comments & Tips

Post comment, tip or bird sighting
Rate this area
Add to my favourites
Remove from my favorites