Birding Around Mount Charleston
Birding Around Las Vegas

Birding Mt. Charleston
 
Mount Charleston, or more properly the Spring Mountain Range (map), is the place to find species typical of the western mountains. The Spring Mountain Range, locally referred to simply as "Mt. Charleston," forms the western border of the Las Vegas Valley. From the desert at elevations below 3,000 ft to the crest of the range at nearly 12,000 ft, the mountains support a variety of climate and vegetation zones. Because they are completely surrounded by desert, the Spring Mountains are an island of mountain habitat in a sea of desert. Isolation of the upland flora and fauna has resulted in the evolution of several endemic species and subspecies, only about 30 of which have been formally named. The alpine forests are a wonderful habitat, a place to seek refuge from the summer heat, and a place to look for alpine birds and other wildlife.

For More Information and details, including driving directions and information on the vegetation and wildlife, visit to the Spring Mountains Area Overview Page.
 
Birding Mount Charleston Map

Kyle Canyon. The road ends in the bottom of a deep canyon surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and mixed pine-fir forests at an elevation of about 8,000 feet. Several trails, roadside pullouts, and residential areas with bird feeders provide birding opportunities.

Lee Canyon. The road ends at the top of the canyon surrounded by towering limestone peaks and mixed pine-fir-bristlecone forests at an elevation of about 8,700 feet. Trails, roadside pullouts, and a big meadow provide opportunities to find montane species.

Deer Creek Picnic Area. The picnic area is located along the road between Kyle and Lee Canyons. A short walk from the parking area leads to an ephemeral pond, but even if it is dry, the creek a few minutes up into the picnic area attracts birds from all around.

Cold Creek. Ponds and springs in this high-elevation Mojave Desert scrub habitat provide some of the only trees and water around. Another spring at the interface of montane and Mojave Desert scrub provides a good mix of habitats. During droughts, the springs might be dry. A big burn area on the mountain has grown back in bushy thickets.

 
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© Jim Boone; Last updated 070904
 
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