The largest of 10 islands in Utah's Great Salt Lake, Antelope Island is connected to the city of Syracuse. Thousands of visitors come every year to the Antelope Island State Park for wildlife and hiking adventures, including the prolific Annual Bison Roundup. Here are the best things to do in Antelope Island.
1. Annual Bison Roundup
For months, Park Manager Jeremy Shaw plans how to herd more than 700 bison for processing each year. "This is my favorite part of this job," he tells Deseret News of the annual bison roundup. "It's our Super Bowl."
With over 200 cowboys and cowgirls, the actual reason for the roundup is to control the size of the bison herd on the island. Biologists say that only 550 bison can live on the island sustainably, that is maintain the fragile ecosystem, including other wildlife.
Despite what people may call animal cruelty, Shaw says, "That's how we keep the island healthy."
On its 30th year, the roundup brings the scattered herd to the Southern tip of Antelope Island, where the animals are assessed in terms of health, and some are auctioned for up to $3,000.
2. Rich Wildlife
As with most American National Parks, visitors can visit and see animals in their natural habitat. Besides the herd of free-roaming bison the island is known for, USA Today says that the island is also known to be the home of pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, juvenile bald eagles, badgers, coyotes, bobcats, waterfowl, the American white pelican, marbled godwit, and loggerhead shrike.
3. Buffalo Point and White Rock Bay
Towards the northwest of the island are these two look-out points, which feature a triple threat in scenery, from mountains, beaches and lakes, as well as other islands in the Great Salt Lake.
4. Visitor Center
Besides a small exhibition on the island's history, rich ecology, maps and works of art, the amphitheater also holds events on most days of the year. In addition, park rangers are available to guide travelers on tours, bike trails, boating and hikes.
5. Fielding Garr Ranch
On the island's East end, the ranch is the oldest Anglo building in Utah and is composed of a bunkhouse, stables and blacksmith. Currently, the complex holds classes and demos for schoolchildren about farm life and forestry. During the summer, horses may be rented here for buffalo-viewing trips.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
