Stroll the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge
Walk the auto-tour loop to spot American Avocets and Tundra Swans stopping over during their southward autumn migration.
Itinerary tips
- 1Pack a high-quality pair of binoculars or a spotting scope to view nesting pairs from the designated pull-offs along the 12-mile Forest Street loop.
- 2Allocate at least two to three hours to complete the full auto-tour loop and explore the short, accessible walking trails near the Wildlife Education Center.
- 3Ensure your vehicle has a full tank of gas before heading west from Brigham City, as there are no services once you enter the refuge boundary.
- 4Check the official refuge website for seasonal gate closures and current water levels before departing Logan for the 30-minute drive.
- 5Visit the Wildlife Education Center first to pick up a bird checklist and use the clean restroom facilities before starting the driving tour.
- 6Drive slowly and stay inside your vehicle when possible, as the cars act as a mobile blind that allows for closer observations without spooking the birds.
More in Logan & Cache Valley
Watch the Kokanee Salmon Run at Porcupine
Witness thousands of Kokanee salmon turn bright red as they swim upstream to spawn in the Little Bear River during September.
OutdoorClimb at First Dam
Join the local student crowd for bouldering and slacklining at the mouth of Logan Canyon, right where the river enters the valley.
OutdoorHike the Crimson Trail for Autumn Views
Traverse the 'China Wall' limestone cliffs to see the Logan Canyon maples turning fiery red and orange against the river below.
HikingEat an Aggie Blue Mint Cone
Visit the Aggie Creamery on the USU campus for a double scoop of the famous mint ice cream loaded with chocolate chunks and cookies.
Food & Drink

