Antelope Island sunset safari: Bison & Buffalo Point hike

Bison herds, migratory birds, and a rocky trail to sunset

A 4.5-hour evening wildlife safari on Antelope Island led by a Utah local and former African safari guide, with stops on the causeway for migratory birds, time searching for bison and other wildlife on the island, and a 1-mile round hike to Buffalo Point for sunset. Small groups, binoculars, entrance fee and air-conditioned transport are included. Moderate fitness is required for the rocky 300-foot elevation gain.

Step-by-step itinerary

Wildlife safari and sunset hike

• View migratory birds on causeway
• Search for bison and wildlife on island
• Hike 1 mile round trip to Buffalo Point
• Watch sunset over Great Salt Lake

The experience

The tour starts on the causeway crossing to Antelope Island, where you stop to watch migratory birds that visit the Great Salt Lake. Once on the island, the guide leads you to look for the free-roaming bison herd and other wildlife (pronghorn, mule deer, coyotes, raptors, shorebirds, owls and seasonal species), timed around golden hour when the light is best for photography and wildlife spotting. The pace stays relaxed in small groups, built for couples, photographers and nature lovers who want to linger rather than rush.

The hike to Buffalo Point is a 1-mile round trip on a well-trod but rocky trail with 300 feet of elevation gain. It concludes the tour at sunset, with views out over the Great Salt Lake from the point. You'll need moderate fitness for the climb. The trail is not technical but does demand steady footing and cardiovascular endurance. Binoculars are provided, and the guide (a Utah local with African safari experience) stays with the group throughout.

The tour does not include stops at the Visitor Center or Fielding Garr ranch, both of which close at 5pm. Bring a reusable water bottle and any snacks or drinks you'll want during the 4.5 hours. Sunscreen and insect repellent are recommended. Children are welcome from age 6, and pickup is included.

What’s included

• Local guide with African safari experience.
• binoculars for wildlife viewing.
• entrance fee to Antelope Island State Park.
• air-conditioned vehicle transport with pickup included.
• small group size kept under twelve people.

Before you book

Days and timesThursday and FridayDeparts at 15:00Last departure this season: 31 Mar 2027

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (17 and older) · Youth (6 to 16 years) · Under 6: can't be booked

GroupUp to 6

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 44 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 7 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Safari Utah

Is this one for you?The small group and relaxed pace suit photographers and nature lovers who want to linger over wildlife and light rather than move quickly through stops. The hike to Buffalo Point and the rocky terrain require moderate fitness. If you're comfortable with a steady uphill walk and uneven footing, this tour fits. If spinal or cardiovascular issues make hiking difficult, this is not the right choice.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (6 to 16 years). Children under 6 can't be included in the booking.

What wildlife will I actually see on Antelope Island?

Antelope Island is home to a free-roaming bison herd, and the tour searches for pronghorn, mule deer, coyotes, raptors, shorebirds, owls and seasonal species. The causeway stop adds migratory birds that visit the Great Salt Lake. What you see depends on the season and time of day, but the guide knows where to look and will adjust the route based on recent sightings.

How difficult is the Buffalo Point hike?

Buffalo Point is a 1-mile round trip on a rocky trail with 300 feet of elevation gain. It is well-trod but requires moderate fitness and steady footing. The climb is steady but not technical. The tour is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What's included in the tour price?

The tour includes a local guide, use of binoculars, entrance to Antelope Island State Park, and air-conditioned vehicle transport. Pickup is also included. You'll need to bring your own water, snacks and sunscreen.

When does the tour end?

The tour is 4.5 hours and concludes at sunset on Buffalo Point. The exact end time depends on the sunset time for the date you book, which shifts throughout the year.

Is this tour good for photography?

Yes. The tour is timed around golden hour and sunset, when evening light creates excellent conditions for wildlife and landscape photography. Small groups mean you have time to set up shots, and the guide can help position the group for the best angles.