Explore
Antelope Island is the largest island in the Great Salt Lake and the primary destination for wildlife viewing.
Located 40 miles north of Salt Lake City, the park is accessible via a 7-mile causeway from Syracuse. The entry fee is $15 per vehicle for day use.
You can drive the park roads to look for the herd of 500 to 800 free-roaming bison. Be sure to stay at least 100 feet away from them. Spring and early summer bring heavy biting gnats, so pack a fine-mesh head net Antelope Island Bugs.
1-2 hours
This is the most popular beach on the island. It features white oolitic sand and provides the best access to float in the hyper-saline water. Bring water shoes to protect your feet from sharp salt crystals. Use the coin-operated showers afterward to rinse off the salt residue Where to Float.
1 hour
This preserved 19th-century ranch sits on the eastern side of the island. It features exhibits on early pioneer life and sheep shearing. Walk the grounds quietly to spot mule deer and great horned owls resting in the trees.
45 minutesSunset views
A short hike leads to this overlook. It provides panoramic views of the lake, other islands, and the surrounding mountains. The elevated view makes it highly photogenic, especially during sunset.
30 minutesAsk about bison locations
This educational facility sits near the island entrance. It contains exhibits explaining the lake's biology, geology, and the resident bison herd. Stop here first to ask park rangers where the bison are currently grazing.
