What is Bechan Cave?
Bechan Cave is a large sandstone rock shelter in Kane County, along Bowns Canyon Creek at about 4,200 feet elevation.
Caves
Bechan Cave
Kane County rock shelter—mammoth fossils and archaeological site
At a glance
- Drive time
- ~2 hr from the inn
Bechan Cave is a large sandstone rock shelter in Kane County, along Bowns Canyon Creek at about 4,200 feet elevation. It is roughly 31 meters wide, 9 meters high, and 52 meters deep with a single southwest-facing entrance. Excavations in the 1980s uncovered Pleistocene megafauna remains—including mammoth hair and an enormous dung layer, with Columbian mammoth dung dating to the late Pleistocene. The name comes from a Navajo word meaning "big dung." The site is significant for paleontology and archaeology; public access may be remote, sensitive, or restricted.
Highlights
- Pleistocene mammoth dung layer and fossil remains
- Rock shelter used by ancient megafauna
- Archaeological and paleontological significance
- Located in Kane County in southeastern Utah
Tips
This is a remote, sensitive paleontology and archaeology site rather than a general recreation destination. Check current land-manager guidance before planning a visit.
When to go
Not a standard tourist cave. Contact land managers for current access and permit requirements.
Stay planning
Once this stop is on your list, use Plan Your Days for itinerary ideas or compare our rooms and cabins to match the style of trip you want.
May 2026
Why trust this guide
Cave access, forest roads, and shoulder-season weather can change faster than people expect around Duck Creek. We use guest trip-planning experience here, but always recommend checking the official sources below before you commit to the drive.
Questions: Bechan Cave
Cave basics, driving distance, and what to know before you go.
How far is Bechan Cave from Duck Creek Village Inn?
Bechan Cave is about ~2 hr from Duck Creek Village Inn in the current cave guide.
What should I know before visiting Bechan Cave?
Archaeological/paleontological site; access may be sensitive or restricted. Check current land-manager guidance before visiting.
Go up one level
Start from the cave hub if you want the broader set of lava tubes and cave stops before picking one route.
Related stops
Sideways links to other caves and nearby stops that match this kind of adventure.
Next steps
These next-step guides help you connect a cave stop to a bigger Duck Creek or park day.
Choose your stay
Keep the planning moving with room, cabin, and comparison options that fit the pace of the trip.
Stay Here, Explore Bechan Cave Tomorrow
Book your room or cabin at Duck Creek Village Inn - ~2 hr from Bechan Cave.