Mesquite Wash
Mesquite Wash is a rare desert riparian habitat located about 20 miles northeast of Fountain Hills along the Beeline Highway. Sycamore Creek runs through this wash, where the water levels vary throughout the year. Sometimes the water flow of the creek is very wide, making it necessary to wade in the water to approach the birding areas. The wash is surrounded by willow, cottonwood, sycamore, walnut and mesquite trees.
This spot is one of the best and easier places in Maricopa County to view Yellow-billed Cuckoos. By listening for their unique calls, they can often be located easily in the medium-sized willows along the creek from June to August.
Site Information
Region: Phoenix and Central
County: Maricopa
Directions: Located along Highway 87 (Beeline Highway), between mile markers 207 and 208. A bridge goes over the wash and parking is available on the north side of the bridge on both sides.
Latitude: 33.7300861
Longitude: -111.5110159
Operational Hours: Open all year, 24 hours a day
Admission or Fees: None
Best time to visit: Best during spring and fall migration.
Habitats: Desert, Stream or river
Know Before You Go
Birding is good on both sides of the Highway 87 bridge, especially on the west side which provides more riparian habitat.
Safety First! Arizona has many beautiful places to explore and we’d like to help you make it a safe and enjoyable experience. Check out our recommendations for hiking precautions.
Species Highlights
Speciality: Canyon Wren, Common Black Hawk, Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Lucy’s Warbler, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Zone-tailed Hawk
Charismatic: Brown-crested Flycatcher, Curve-billed Thrasher, Gila Woodpecker, Phainopepla
Contact Information
Tonto National Forest
US Forest Service
2324 E. McDowell Rd
Phoenix, AZ 85006
Phone: 602-225-5200
Website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/tonto
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L951805
