Explore Antelope Island: Nature, Wildlife, and Scenic Beauty

Buffalo at Antelope IslandPhoto byAuthor

Antelope Isand is a great place to view the Great Salt Lake and to see wildlife. It is a state park located not far from Salt Lake City and Ogden, Utah. The area is rich in features of nature and scenic beauty.

Although the island was named for antelope, there were no antelope there for years. Antelope were reintroduced to the island in 1993 and are now seen in areas within the park. Deer, bobcats, coyotes, and many varieties of birds and waterfowl may be seen there. The most famous animal on Antelope Island is the American Bison, or buffalo. There is an annual bison roundup each fall.

The facilities at Antelope Island include a marina, beach, picnic area, and camping areas. A restaurant and concessionaires are available on the island to provide food and services. There are historic places to visit.

The island is a place which has white sand beaches on The Great Salt Lake. It is popular for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The marina serves sailboats, powerboats, and kayakers.

The sunrises and sunsets at Antelope Island are spectacular.

The location of Antelope Island is in the Great Salt Lake about 41 miles north of Salt Lake City, west of the town of Layton. The address is 4528 West 1700 South in Syracuse.

The park is open daily from 6:00 AM until 10:00 PM but closed on Thanksgiving and Chritmas. Visitor Center hours are from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

There is an entrance fee of $15 per vehicle for up to 8 people. Senior entrance fee is $10 per vehicle for up to 8 people. Motorcycles are $5 per motorcycle, and bicycles and pedestrians are $3 per person.

Reservations are recommended for camping and must be made at least two days in advance. Register online or call 800-322-2770.

[Website: https://www.utah.com/destinations/state-parks/antelope-island-state-park/]