Located about 30 minutes north of Salt Lake City lies Antelope Island State Park, an island located on the Great Salt Lake. The island offers a great place to hike, swim, and see the various wildlife that roam the island.
Must See and Must Do at Antelope Island State Park
The first place you'll want to head once getting onto the island is the Fielding Garr Ranch, which is one of the oldest working ranches in the United States. From here, you can take a nearby trail that climbs up to the top of the island for some nice views of the surrounding Great Salt Lake and Wasatch Mountains. If you have time after the hike, the visitor's center has some nice displays about the history and environmental make-up of the island.
Best and Worst Time to Go to Antelope Island State Park
If you are interested in hiking or camping at the park, avoid the heat of the summer. Shade is a rare commodity on the island and the extreme heat brings out hordes of bugs. It's better to wait until September or October when the temperature cools down and the bugs aren't as numerous.
Admission to Antelope Island State Park
Since Antelope Island is a state park there is a fee, but it is relatively inexpensive at around $10 per carload. Cyclists and pedestrians can also pay to enter the park for less than $5. Once you pay to enter the park, there is a 7-mile causeway to actually get out to the island.
Wildlife at Antelope Island State Park
One of the great things about the island is the diverse set of wildlife, which includes mule deer, bobcats, and coyotes, along with several species of migrating birds. However, the island is most famous for its herd of bison which can be seen many times from the roadway surrounding the island.
Insider Tip for Visitors to Antelope Island State Park
If you are going to be camping at the park, be sure and take your bicycle. The island has miles of mountain biking trails that provide a great way to see everything. Just be sure to have enough water and sunscreen on hand.
Author's bio: Clint T. has lived in Utah on and off for the past 20 years and will never grow tired of the great outdoors.