Birds, bears and salamanders, along with willows and irises, crowd into this little pocket of lush vegetation in the middle of Bryce Canyon.
Swamp Canyon may seem like a misnomer in Bryce Canyon’s arid environment. However, it hints at the unique variety of the area that makes it a big attraction for bird watchers and plant lovers. Fed by two tiny creeks and a stream, the canyon attracts the region’s water-loving species of plants and animals, appreciating the humidity that is sorely lacking in the rest of the park. Visit Swamp Canyon to go on a hike or stay overnight in some of the backcountry camping areas.
Come prepared for wilderness when you step out of your car because the hidden nature of Swamp Canyon also means it’s more untamed than other portions of the park. Bring binoculars and a camera for sightings of the many songbird species that inhabit the four different habitats contained in the canyon. Set off along the narrow trail that leaves from either side of the canyon overlook.
Listen to the buzzing bees as they pollinate the wealth of wildflowers that line the sides of the creeks. Spot the stripes of the tiger salamanders as the tiny creatures run in and out of the water. Eat lunch beneath the hanging branches of a willow tree. Then head either back up to the overlook or farther into the backcountry for a more rigorous Bryce Canyon adventure.
Find Swamp Canyon along the Bryce Canyon scenic drive that serves the park’s various lookout points. Reach the Swamp Canyon overlook in 15 minutes from Bryce and in 10 minutes from the Bryce Canyon Visitor Center. Although the regular park shuttle does not stop at Swamp Canyon, you can reserve a seat on the free Rainbow Bus, which passes twice a day.
To access Swamp Canyon you will need to buy an admission ticket for Bryce Canyon National Park. Reservations are required for the trailside campsites. The trails are in a wilderness area and require vigilance, with good map and navigation skills. Check with the park rangers at the visitor center for more information about the trail.
