Great Salt Lake & Antelope Island: Wildlife, Ranch & Pickup

Summary

Wild bison, salt air, and old ranch stories on Antelope Island

You’ll step onto Antelope Island’s crunchy salt flats, watch wild bison graze under endless sky, and wander through Fielding Garr Ranch’s creaky halls with stories from locals. With pickup included from Salt Lake City and a guide who knows every turn, you’ll leave with salt on your shoes — and maybe a new perspective.

What’s the experience like?

We rolled out of Salt Lake City just after breakfast — I could still smell coffee on my hands. Our guide, Mark, had this easy way of talking about the lake’s history without making it feel like a lecture. Crossing the causeway to Antelope Island State Park, the water looked almost metallic in the morning light. It’s strange how quiet it gets out there — just wind and the occasional bird call. Someone in our group asked if the lake always smells that salty (it does), and Mark laughed, saying you never really get used to it.

We stopped at Bridger Bay first. The sand felt gritty and cool under my shoes — not like any beach I’ve been to. There were a few locals walking dogs, nodding as we passed. The Buffalo Point hike isn’t long (maybe half an hour round trip), but I kept stopping to look for bison. We actually saw a small herd off in the distance — they looked like dark shapes moving through gold grass. Honestly, I didn’t expect to feel so small out there with all that sky.

Later at Fielding Garr Ranch, Mark pointed out old tools hanging from weathered beams. The ranch smells faintly of dust and hay — or maybe that’s just my imagination. A woman working there told us stories about early settlers; her hands moved constantly as she spoke, like she was shaping the words in midair. We watched for pronghorns and mule deer near the edge of some cottonwoods but mostly just heard birds rustling overhead. It was quieter than I thought a place full of wildlife would be.

The drive back felt slower somehow. Maybe it was just tired legs or maybe it was something about seeing so much open space all at once. Either way, I still think about that view over the Great Salt Lake — silver water stretching forever, with bison somewhere out there grazing where you can’t quite see them.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island

• Travel to Great Salt Lake
• Visit Bridger Bay Beach
• Hike Buffalo Point (1 mile)
• Explore Fielding Garr Ranch
• Watch wildlife at ranch
• Return to Salt Lake City

Top questions

How long is the Great Salt Lake & Antelope Island tour?

The tour lasts approximately 5 ½ hours including travel time from Salt Lake City.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for selected hotels in Salt Lake City.

What wildlife can you see on Antelope Island?

You might spot free-ranging bison, mule deer, pronghorns, bighorn sheep, and many birds along the lake shore.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

No lunch is provided; bottled water is included but bring snacks if needed.

How difficult is the Buffalo Point hike?

The Buffalo Point hike is about 1 mile round trip and suitable for most fitness levels.

Are children allowed on this Great Salt Lake tour?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult; infants can ride in strollers or prams.

Can I bring my service animal on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed during the tour.

Does the tour include entry fees to Antelope Island State Park?

Yes, all applicable taxes and entry fees are included in your booking price.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from select Salt Lake City hotels, comfortable transportation with bottled water along for the ride, all park entry fees covered up front so you don’t have to worry about cash or tickets at Antelope Island State Park or Fielding Garr Ranch — plus a local guide who knows every shortcut and story worth hearing before heading back into town together.