Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit
Prepare for high salinity, exposed landscapes, and wild animals. Check distances, transport options, and essential items to pack.
Great Salt Lake Tours (Antelope Island, Saltair)
Great Salt Lake Area, Magna / Syracuse
GPS 40.7711, -112.1934
Open directionsGetting there
Drive your own car or take a guided tour from Salt Lake City.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Driving via I-80 W to Saltair (exit 104) or via I-15 N to Syracuse for the Antelope Island causeway. | 15-20 mins to Saltair, 45-60 mins to Antelope Island from SLC | Gas plus park entry fees ($15) | Renting a car provides the most flexibility to explore the expansive state parks at your own pace. |
| Tour: Guided bus or minibus tours departing directly from downtown Salt Lake City hotels. | 2 to 5.5 hours depending on the itinerary | $50 - $145 | Highly recommended for first-time visitors to understand the science, history, and ecology of the lake without logistical stress. |
| Walk: Self-guided walking at the state park marinas, beaches, and hiking trails. | 1-3 hours on-site | Free after park entry | Be prepared for long walks to the water's edge due to receding lake levels. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The parks are open year-round. April, May, September, and October are the best months to visit. Temperatures are mild, and biting gnats are less prevalent. Early summer brings heavy gnat populations to Antelope Island.
What to bring
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Stay at least 100 feet away from the free-roaming bison.
Bison are wild, fast, and dangerous.
How the day runs
Suggested routes for your visit.
Explore the island's wildlife and history in a few hours.
- Visitor Center
Ask park rangers where the bison herds are grazing.
- Fielding Garr Ranch
View 19th-century pioneer agriculture and spot mule deer.
- Buffalo Point
Take a short hike for panoramic views of the lake.
- Bridger Bay Beach
Float in the dense salt water and use the coin-operated showers.
A brief visit to the southern shore from downtown Salt Lake City.
- The Great Saltair
Pull over to photograph the iconic Moorish-style exterior.
- Great Salt Lake State Park Marina
Walk the docks or rent a kayak.
- Silver Sands Beach
Walk out toward the receding waterline on the exposed lakebed.
What to Pack
Bring plenty of drinking water, as the environment is highly exposed and arid. Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential to combat the severe UV glare reflecting off the salt flats and water. If you plan to float, pack a swimsuit, towel, and water shoes to protect your feet from sharp rocks.
During late spring and early summer, pack a fine-mesh head net and insect repellent to combat biting gnats. Binoculars are highly recommended for safely viewing bison from a distance.
Easiest way to do it
Great Salt Lake Safari - Discover Antelope Island
4 h 30 min 5.0 (191)
- Local guide
- Use of binoculars
- Entrance fee
- Air-conditioned vehicle
From$150per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Can you go inside the Great Saltair?
You cannot go inside unless you have a concert ticket. The Great Saltair is a private concert venue. However, the exterior is free to view and photograph.
What animals live on Antelope Island?
The island is home to a free-roaming herd of 500 to 800 bison. You can also spot pronghorn antelope, coyotes, mule deer, and millions of migratory birds.
Can you bring dogs?
Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a maximum 6-foot leash at all times within the state parks.