7 Activities
Great Salt Lake Adventure: Bison, Shorebirds, and Wetlands
Starts from
Salt Lake City
Transportation
By Car
Guidance
Self-Guided
Activities
7
Duration
9 hrs 40 min
Length
78 mi
Guide details
Starts from
Salt Lake City
Transportation
By Car
Guidance
Self-Guided
Duration
9 hrs 40 min
Length
78 mi
- Natural Attractions
Britnee Johnston
Travel Expert
- Admire bison in the wild at Antelope Island.
- Spot shorebirds nesting at Farmington Bay.
- View wetlands from a 30-foot-high observation tower.
In this one-day Great Salt Lake adventure, you will explore the wildlife and habitats found in the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. You'll scout for the majestic free-roaming bison on Antelope Island, and search for migratory birds and explore wetland habitats in Farmington Bay.
You will also learn about the history of ranching on Antelope Island and enjoy a hike to stretch out your legs that will take you along a scenic route of the island. Enjoy!
You will also learn about the history of ranching on Antelope Island and enjoy a hike to stretch out your legs that will take you along a scenic route of the island. Enjoy!
Categories
- Natural Attractions
In this one-day Great Salt Lake adventure, you will explore the wildlife and habitats found in the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. You'll scout for the majestic free-roaming bison on Antelope Island, and search for migratory birds and explore wetland habitats in Farmington Bay.
You will also learn about the history of ranching on Antelope Island and enjoy a hike to stretch out your legs that will take you along a scenic route of the island. Enjoy!
You will also learn about the history of ranching on Antelope Island and enjoy a hike to stretch out your legs that will take you along a scenic route of the island. Enjoy!
Britnee Johnston
Travel Expert
- Admire bison in the wild at Antelope Island.
- Spot shorebirds nesting at Farmington Bay.
- View wetlands from a 30-foot-high observation tower.
Day Itinerary
7 Activities
Day 1
78 mi
One-Day Trip Along the Great Salt Lake
In this one-day itinerary, you will visit several stops along the east side of the Great Salt Lake, including the popular Antelope Island where you will see free-roaming bison and dazzling views of the lake.
09:301 hr 30 min
George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Wildlife Education Center
Your morning will begin with a short drive to a wildlife education center in the wetlands of the Great Salt Lake. You will explore engaging exhibits inside the center, and then head outside on a one-mile nature walk to spot shoreline birds. You could spot a bald eagle, red-tailed hawk, or a great blue heron, just to name a few.
13.2 mi
25 min
11:301 hr
Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve
Your birdwatching continues at the Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve by the Nature Conservancy. This is known for its picturesque boardwalks and 30-foot-tall observation tower to spot birds such as American avocets and black-necked stilts. You will learn more about the birds and their migration patterns and habitats in the educational exhibits along the boardwalks.
3.1 mi
10 min
12:401 hr
Chris' Café
Breakfast is served daily, all day at Chris' Cafe with your choice of omelets, pancakes, and breakfast sandwiches. If you're craving lunch, they've got you covered with burgers, sandwiches, and salads. When you sit down to eat, you'll find yourself in a fun '50s, vintage-style dining area.
13.5 mi
25 min
14:0515 min
Bridger Bay
The crown jewel of this journey is Antelope Island. After lunch, you'll head to this infamous island on a seven-mile-long causeway that cuts through part of the lake to get to the island. The first stop on the island will be Bridger Bay where you'll find the Great Salt Lake expanse before your eyes. From here, start keeping an eye out for the free-roaming bison that can be found throughout the island, often just off the side of the road. Remember to not approach them if you see them.
2.8 mi
10 min
15:001 hr 30 min
White Rock Loop Trailhead
Drive on to the White Rock Loop Trailhead to stretch out your legs and enjoy more scenic views on foot. From here, you can hike along the gravel trail for as long or as brief as you want. The full trail loop is 7 miles long. There is little shade so be sure to pack a hat, sunscreen, and water. You may also see bison along this way. Remember to give them space if you do come across them.
11.5 mi
25 min
17:0030 min
Fielding Garr Ranch
After your hike, you will drive along the east side of the island to enjoy views of Farmington Bay set against the Wasatch Mountains. As you make your way down, you'll stop at Fielding Garr Ranch. This site is located at Garr Springs, which is one of the 40 freshwater springs found on the island. You will learn about the history of the ranch, including how it began operations 150 years ago and included sheep and cattle herds.
33.9 mi
50 min
18:301 hr 30 min
Sticky Bird Red Barn Farms
End your fun-filled day at Sticky Bird Red Barn Farms in Farmington. You will have to try their boneless chicken sticky fingers with one of their signature sauces such as Utah honey vinegar, rebel fire, and double barrel BBQ. They also serve chicken drumsticks, red barn slaw, chop chicken finger salad, buffalo cauliflower, fries, and shakes.