O give me a home where the buffaloes roam
“Home on the Range”
Where the deer and the antelope play
Where seldom is heard a discouraging word
And the skies are not cloudy all day Home, home on the range
Where the deer and the antelope play
Where seldom is heard a discouraging word
And the skies are not cloudy all day
I grew up in the United States and had this song written on my heart long before I fully understood the meaning. During elementary and middle school, our history classes involved learning about the native people who have lived in the United States for generations before the Europeans arrived.
We heard stories about the relationships some of the groups had with the buffalo herds, eating the meat, using the pelts for blankets and shelter, and even using the droppings for fire kindling. I never imagined that with all of the westward expansion and belief in Manifest Destiny that herds of buffalo would still roam about the country.
Guess what? They still do!
Just a short drive north from downtown Salt Lake City lies Antelope Island, situated in the Great Salt Lake. Not only can you watch the buffalo herd roaming (or sleeping, as they often do), but take advantage of world-class bird-watching, unique hikes over rugged terrain, and learn about the history of the island and how it came to be named.
Marvel that even though you can actually see downtown Salt Lake City, you feel worlds away. Here’s how to spend a fun and adventurous day on Antelope Island!
Related: 5 Day Trips from Salt Lake City
Getting to Antelope Island
From Salt Lake City, take I-15 North and exit Antelope Island Road. Follow the signs to Antelope Island State Park. That’s it. Easy, I know.
Things to do on Antelope Island
There’s no shortage of adventures to be had on Antelope Island! Whether you bring a boat, bike, or just some sturdy hiking shoes, there will always be good times on the horizon.
Hiking
Antelope Island has several hikes spread throughout, each is clearly marked on the map you receive upon your arrival. For novice hikers and little ones, might I suggest the Lady Finger Point Trail? Less than half a mile on an easy trail, hikers climb about 300 feet to sweeping panoramic views of the Great Salt Lake.
For those of you more adventurous, check out the Frary Peak trail, which takes you 6.6 miles to the highest peak on Antelope Island and rewards you with unobstructed views of the entire island. Note that this hike is strenuous and requires bouldering and steep inclines towards the end of the hike.
Whichever trail you embark upon, bring your own water, pack out your own trash, and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife!
Camping on Antelope Island
Want to sleep amongst the buffalo? Well, if they choose to roam through your campsite, you can consider yourself extremely lucky! Antelope Island has a handful of campgrounds with primitive campsites. Check their website for more details.
Picnic at the beach
If swimming in the Great Salt Lake is on your bucket list, Antelope Island is a great place to do so. Just west of the visitor center is the day-use beach where you can set up lunch, take off your shoes, and walk across the sand to the often fly-infested water. You heard right – there are often swarms of flies hanging around the shore, but once you get out past them you’re golden.
Fielding Garr Ranch
Drive south down the island to the Fielding Garr Ranch, where you can check out the special exhibits and take yourself on a self-guided tour. In my experience, most of the big groupings of buffalo tend to hang out close by. Grab your camera and get ready to take some National Geographic-worthy shots!
If you want a true adventure, book yourself a horseback riding tour through R&G Horse and Wagon! Both one and two hour tours are available.
Visitor Center
What State Park wouldn’t be complete without a customary visitor center? Stop by the visitor center and learn about the history of old Lake Bonneville, when the first buffalo were introduced to the island, and which animals you can spot on the island. Hint: there are actual antelope roaming about!
Keep in mind…
When you approach Antelope Island, make sure that your windows are rolled up and you’re running recirculated air. Trust me. It’s a tad stinky with the salt deposits.
Bring water and sunscreen!
Since Antelope Island is technically a state park, there’s a $10 fee associated with the entrance. For more information, check out their website here.
You drive past numerous gas stations, fast-food places, and stores. No need to panic about making sure you have everything, but make sure you have at least half of a tank of gas before getting to the island. There are no gas stations on the island.
There’s a cafe on the island, but I personally haven’t eaten there before, nor will I ever. Personal preference. I usually pack a small cooler with snacks, and eat a meal before I head out. Check their Facebook page for more information about the cafe.
Have you ever visited Antelope Island? What was your favorite thing to do?
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