Antelope Island State Park

The Basics

In Antelope Island State Park, water lovers can kayak along the lake’s glassy surface, float in the buoyant salt water, and picnic or sunbathe on the shore. If you’d rather explore the island’s interior, pick up some maps at the visitors center, and head out on a hiking, biking, or horseback riding journey through the park. Guided e-bike tours are another fun option.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The island is a unique ecosystem that makes a good day trip from Salt Lake City.

• Stay overnight in the park’s primitive campsites—reservations are recommended.

• Take a picnic lunch, or grab a bison burger at Island Buffalo Grill.

• Prepare to spend the day in the sun—the island has very little shade.

• The park has wheelchair- and stroller-accessible paths, picnic areas, restrooms, and more.

How to Get There

Accessible from the mainland via a causeway, Antelope Island State Park is just over an hour’s drive from Salt Lake City International Airport. From Salt Lake City, hop onto I-15 North to Antelope Drive in Layton. Continue onto UT-108 North, then take Antelope Island Road to the island, where you’ll pass through a fee station.

When to Get There

Enjoy cool temperatures just right for hiking during the winter, and hot days ideal for swimming in the summer. Note that insects such as flies, biting gnats (no-see-ums), and mosquitos can be prevalent on the island in certain seasons—visit the park’s website for details. To see bison, go during the annual fall roundup, when all the bison are gathered into pens for health assessments.

Swimming in the Great Salt Lake

To experience the feeling of floating in high-saline water, make your way to Bridger Bay Beach. Turn right when you reach the island, and discover the shallow, salty water perfect for wading, swimming, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. The beach has restrooms, picnic areas, and coin-operated showers.