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Rich in scenic beauty and natural features, Antelope Island is the perfect place
to view the Great Salt Lake and experience the vast solitude of the Great Basin.
The largest of the Great Salt Lake's 10 islands, Antelope Island is part of the
Utah State Park System. Visitors can reach the park by boat or via a causeway
reopened in 1992 after being submerged for a decade by record-high lake levels.
Recreational opportunities abound. White sand beaches beckon to
sunbathers and picnickers. Hiking trails attract those looking for new and
unique experiences. A sailboat marina lends a maritime atmosphere to island
activities. Bicyclers enjoy the experience of riding out on the causeway in the
invigorating salt air to explore the island. Campers come to watch beautiful
sunrises and sunsets in seclusion found only minutes away from their urban
homes.
From the mainland, its 28,022 acres appear barren and deserted. But
Antelope Island is home to a variety of flora and fauna native to the Great
Basin region. This is a great place to view wildlife. The island was without its
namesake antelope for many years, but they were reintroduced in 1993 and can now
be seen in many areas of the park. Deer, bobcats, coyotes, many varieties of
birds and waterfowl, and a small herd of elk also call the island home. But most
famous are Antelope Island's American Bison, introduced to the island in 1893
and now numbering some 600 animals. The world-renowned herd is managed by the
Utah Division of Parks and Recreation and visitors are welcome at the island's
buffalo corral and management facilities. During the annual bison roundup each
November, visitors can get a close-up look at the bison and the techniques used
on a working buffalo ranch.
Facilities include modern rest rooms, showers, beach picnic area, RV
and primitive camping, and marina. Concessions are also available. Antelope
Island State Park is seven miles west of I-15 exit #332 near Layton.
Park entrance fee - $9 per vehicle, $6 for walk-ins and
cyclists.
Camping fee - $12
CONTACT: Antelope Island State Park, 4528 West 1700 South, Syracuse 84075,
801-773-2941. For camping reservations, call 800-322-3770.
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