Bison crossing signs line the side of the road giving the largest animals on the Great Salt Lake the right of way. The lake's largest residents and the island they live on provide a perfect venue for the adventurous student who wants to have a truly unique Utah experience, just an hour and a half away from campus at Antelope Island State Park.

The oldest ranch in Utah, Fielding Garr Ranch, is located at the south end of the island overlooking Salt Lake City. Thousands of migrating birds stop at the island on their way to and from summer and winter nesting grounds.

The island has many options for those interested in hiking, biking or other outdoor recreation. There are over 10 trails ranging in difficulty and length depending on experience level and available time.

One trail leads a hiker up the spine of the island to Frary Peak, the highest point on the island. Another trail winds around the western side, providing grand views of the lake.

Each trail provides ample opportunities to experience the wildlife of the island, such as a coyote looking out of the sagebrush or small lizards that seem to be following on the side of the trail during a hike.

Bikers can ride past grazing animals on trails available for mountain biking and over 15 miles of roadways.

A beach is also available for visitors who want to experience the buoyancy of the highly concentrated salt water. The beach may not meet the standards set by the beaches of Southern California or Hawaii, but it offers a truly unique experience in the clear, shallow water of "America's Dead Sea."

Visitors may experience dry skin or a stinging sensation because of the high salt content, which just enhances the overall experience. Showers are offered to visitors who want to rinse off after swimming in the lake.

Since a salt lake surrounds the island, one may find it hard to believe that much life can exist. The early pioneers and explorers found that life was supported by a series of fresh water springs.

Fielding Garr set up a ranch at the most consistent spring in response to a call from Brigham Young to set up a tithing ranch on the island. He settled there just one year after the pioneers entered the Salt Lake Valley.

The ranch operated as a tithing facility until the 1870s and then as a private ranch until the 1970s.

The original ranch house and buildings still stand, surrounded by shade trees, and are open for visitors to explore.

Sunscreen, insect repellant, bottled water and a camera are a must for any visitor to Antelope Island. Also, sandals and a towel or perhaps a kayak could make the beach more enjoyable.

The island, visitors' center and ranch are open year round except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Days.

Antelope Island also houses a state marina and the Buffalo Point Outdoor Bistro. The bistro serves bison burgers and sits on a bluff overlooking the island and lake.

Horseback riding is available as well as scenic or dinner cruises on the lake and ranger-led walks and talks.



Copyright Brigham Young University 9 Sep 2008