Antelope Island Adventure

Knowing I had placed myself smack dab in the vast landlockedness of Utah, it was a thrilling surprise to discover my dream of feeling sand between my toes while peering into salty waters was at my grasp, without having to travel hours to California.

Having moved from Florida, my arrival to Utah centered upon my awe of the majestic mountains. For the first time in years, I finally could enjoy winding roads, this time, like never before, exploring the awe inspiring canyons in all their glory. I fell in love; my aching need for the smell and euphoria that which only the mountains can provide was finally becoming satiated. Nevertheless, as time ticked on, I began to hear the call of the beach from memories of my past. Knowing I had placed myself smack dab in the vast landlockedness of Utah, it was a thrilling surprise to discover my dream of feeling sand between my toes while peering into salty waters was at my grasp, without having to travel hours to California. Was it just my spirited imagination running wild? Being the eccentric I am, it was imperative I asked this question. Low and behold, certainly enough, the wish became reality in a place called Antelope Island.

Explore the island to find all the creative bison statues

Warning: Do NOT do this with an actual bison.

So, the beau and I packed up our day bag with the standards: food, water, and a camera, and jumped into the jeep with our energetic pup, equally needing time away from the city. After only a half hour drive from downtown Salt Lake, we reached the landmark, which the city itself gained its name. The entry to the park cost a mere $10/car ($3/cyclist or pedestrian). Once paying our dues, the adventure began, driving through a still lake, mirroring the beauty of it’s surrounding mountains.

Take in the beautiful scenery and wonderful art exhibits at The Visitor Center.

In each moment we pressed forward, I could feel the stress of society simply melt away. Before even reaching the island, we were forced to pull over, whip out the camera, capturing the picturesque landscapes, as my feet first felt their crunches in sand. Serenity had already become tangible.

Unlike any beach trip I had taken before, we arrived, not to the buzz of a packed city of tourists, but, instead, upon wide-open planes filled with herds of bison. Again, the Jeep came to a halt, this time, to walk within a few feet of these magnificent creatures, able to capture their beauty in raw form, close enough to nearly feel the vibrations of their exhales.

Hand in the Sand

Stunning Sights!

For our first exploration, we decided to simply wing it, taking whatever road we came upon and seeing where it went. Over the course of a solid five hours, we discovered campsites on the beach, horseback-riding trails, hiking trails, a marina, rocky cliffs, epic panoramas, the original farm settlement and even an art museum. We quickly discovered this was a place we could and would return to for an extended stay in our future, in order to fully take in all it has to offer.

Bryson the Bison

Bryson’s Squad

Marchin’ in the Marsh

Dog and Cattails

Entry to the Original Farm

If you’ve packed a lunch, the farm has a great spot filled with picnic tables!

Anthony the Antelope

Written by: Brittany Young, Recreation Outlet Office