We have the red rocks, dozens of hiking trails and wildlife in abundance, but there’s one place just over House Mountain from Sedona that’s one of the true treasures in the area. That place is Bubbling Ponds Fish Hatchery in Cornville and nature trails emanating from the ponds. I’ve spent plenty of time here and have returned time and time again to take pictures of all the wildlife. The middle photo is of a black hawk flying up a perch over looking the ponds The bottom photo is of an adult bald eagle with trout in his talons. Both were taken at the hatchery.
Bubbling Ponds Fish Hatchery primarily raises game fish these days, and the area is several hundred acres in size. The birding trail starts near at the parking area just off Page Springs Road. The panoramic photo up top shows where Bubbling Ponds is located and details other points of interest in the area. Wherever you have water and food, you will get wildlife. In this case, a veritable smorgasbord has been set out for raptors and other birds that have fish in their diet. The water in the ponds attracts both local and migratory birds. January and February are terrific months to visit the ponds because many of the migratory birds spend the winter there. By January, the birds are typically getting used to humans and will allow you to get close to them. Maybe they will fly and maybe not. You can appreciate their beauty and also get great photographs.
Curious about what you will see? Then go down there and see what you can find. When you’ve finished searching for animals, enjoy great dining at Up The Creek restaurant right by the ponds and consider checking out the wineries just down the road.
