Experience the Wilderness at Antelope Island State Park
If you're seeking a completely unique adventure near Salt Lake City, Utah, then Antelope Island is calling with its incredible blend of natural beauty and abundant wildlife. One of three islands on the Great Salt Lake, the 11,340-hectare Antelope Island offers a unique opportunity to witness herds of wild bison, pronghorn antelope, mule deer, and bighorn Sheep roaming across its desert landscapes, making it a must-visit destination in Utah.
Wildlife Encounters
Exploring Antelope Island is akin to enjoying a wildlife safari and provides a rare chance to observe animals in the wild such as bison and pronghorn antelope. For animal enthusiasts and photographers, this experience offers a chance to capture the raw, beauty of these creatures against a mountainous desert and lake backdrop.
The island is also home to populations of lizards, porcupines, badgers, coyotes, bobcats, and millions of waterfowl. The bison were the only introduced species in 1893 by the island’s owner John Dooley and they have flourished ever since. Now the herd fluctuates between 555 - 700 head and is known as a genetic reservoir for bison conservation.
Hiking Trails
The island is also a paradise for hikers, boasting a network of trails that cater to varying experience levels. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a casual explorer, the Antelope Island hiking trails offer a captivating blend of scenic vistas, diverse landscapes, and encounters with indigenous flora and fauna. From leisurely strolls to challenging hikes, there's a trail to suit every preference, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Frary Peak Trail
Completing the Frary Peak Trail is a challenge in the beating hot desert sun and is 11.3 km (7 mi) and takes around 4 hours and 27 minutes round trip. With that in mind, Frary Peak is well worth the challenge and won’t disappoint with its gorgeous panoramic views.
Dooley Knob
Dooley Knob is a section of the Frary Peak Trail and is roughly 4.2 km (2.6 mi) out-and-back. This moderate-difficulty route takes about 1 hour and 29 minutes to finish. This trail guarantees breathtaking scenery the whole way up.
Camping
Looking to camp on Antelope Island? There are three campgrounds on the island - Bridger Bay, White Rock Bay, and Ladyfinger - that together provide 92 campsites in total, with all sites having access to vault restrooms.
The stunning nature of Antelope Island provides campers with an incredible backdrop and at night, the stars can be seen in their full glory. Another activity that sets Antelope Island apart is horseback tours. Rhodes Valley Outfitters provides tours that explore the island's trails on horseback.
Antelope Island Photos
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