Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge351

The Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, located at the northern tip of the Great Salt Lake, is a 74,000 acre National Wildlife Refuge. The historic 65,000 acres of the Refuge consist of marsh, open water and mudflats. Approximately 9000 more acres were added to the Refuge through land acquisition during 1993-94. Much of this new property consists of uplands, wet meadows, and ponds. Over the past seven decades, the refuge has experienced birth, restoration, natural destruction, rebirth, and re-growth. Throughout the refuge's history, it has always been an oasis for shorebirds and waterfowl, and now people are discovering the joy and solitude a day trip to the refuge can offer.

The 12-mile loop drive around the refuge affords people amazing opportunities to view wildlife from the comforts of their own vehicles. Binoculars aren't a necessity, but they are recommended. Birds that can be seen at various times during the year include shorebirds, raptors (eagles, hawks, owls, falcons), pelicans, cormorants, herons, swans, geese, ducks, vultures, rails, coots, cranes, blackbirds, sparrows, swallows, and many, many more. Visit the website for a refuge bird list and information about what times of year to expect the different types of birds.

The refuge auto tour route is open to the public from sunrise to sunset year round. Call ahead to check road conditions. Fishing is permitted in the main river channel only. There is no fishing allowed from the tour route. Wildlife viewing is restricted to the auto tour route, and two viewing platforms. Visitors are asked to respect the wildlife, and not disturb it. Bicycles are permitted only along the auto tour route.

The James V. Hansen Wildlife Education Center opened in the spring of 2006, providing opportunities for the public to learn about wildlife and plant species of the Bear River Refuge and the Great Salt Lake Ecosystem. The center serves as a resource for environmental education with school districts, youth organizations, universities, conservation organizations, and other groups interested in the importance of wetlands to people. The interactive exhibits provide learning experiences for all ages. Located within the Visitor Center are a research lab, classrooms, a 200 seat auditorium, a gift shop/bookstore, and a visitor information desk. Storytimes are occasionally offered. The center is open Monday through Friday 8am-5pm, and Saturdays 10am-4pm; call for holiday hours. The education center is closed on all federal holidays.