The Great Basin's Best-Kept Secret

A Wetland Wonderland in the Desert
Where the desert sands meet a hidden oasis, Bicknell Bottoms emerges as a lush, spring-fed marshland. This unique wildlife habitat offers a rare splash of green and a peaceful refuge for birds, fish, and those looking to escape the red rock heat.
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Bicknell Bottoms
A thriving oasis in the high desert.

Explore Bicknell Bottoms Wildlife Habitat

Bicknell Bottoms is a sprawling wetland complex created by the confluence of the Fremont River and Pine Creek. This lush "bottomland" stands in stark contrast to the surrounding arid plateaus, featuring dense cattail marshes, winding waterways, and fertile meadows. It serves as a critical stopover for migratory birds and a year-round sanctuary for local wildlife, making it one of the most biologically diverse pockets in the Capitol Reef region.

Managed as a Wildlife Management Area (WMA), the Bottoms are a hidden gem for those who enjoy the quieter side of nature. The area is famous for its crystal-clear springs and slow-moving currents that support a healthy population of waterfowl and wild trout. Whether you’re navigating the water by kayak or watching a golden sunset reflect off the marshes, Bicknell Bottoms provides a tranquil, "low-country" experience in the heart of Utah’s high desert.

Things to Do
Curated Experiences

Into the Marsh

Explore the winding waterways and wildlife of the Bottoms.
Explore All Attractions
Paddler’s ParadiseLaunch a canoe or kayak into the gentle currents of the Fremont River as it meanders through the heart of the marsh.
Birdwatcher’s BountyGrab your binoculars to spot snowy egrets, blue herons, and various migratory raptors that frequent these wetlands.
The Angler’s EdgeTest your skills against the wild Brown and Rainbow trout that thrive in the cool, oxygen-rich spring waters.
Sunset SilhouettesCapture stunning reflections of the surrounding red cliffs in the still, glassy waters of the bottoms during the magic hour.

More Things To Do

Bicknell Bottoms is a premier destination for low-impact recreation and wildlife photography.

  • Wildlife Viewing: The area is a haven for more than just birds; keep an eye out for mule deer, muskrats, and even the occasional beaver working along the riverbanks.

  • Fishing Access: There are several public access points along the edges of the WMA. The "Bicknell Bottoms" section of the Fremont River is known for its technical spring-creek style fishing.

  • Photography: The juxtaposition of lush green marsh against the backdrop of fiery red Thousand Lake Mountain creates some of the most unique landscape compositions in Southern Utah.

Logistics

Know Before
You Go

Bicknell Bottoms is open year-round and is easily accessible from the town of Bicknell via gravel roads. While the area is beautiful in all seasons, spring and fall offer the best birdwatching opportunities during peak migration. Note that this is a Wildlife Management Area, so please respect all posted boundaries and seasonal closures intended to protect nesting species.
Fees There are no entrance fees to visit Bicknell Bottoms, though a valid Utah fishing license is required if you plan to cast a line.
Weather Being a wetland, the area can be quite buggy in the peak of summer—bring insect repellent. During the spring runoff, some low-lying trails and access points may be flooded or muddy, so waterproof boots are recommended.

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