November 2025

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Antelope Island – Wild Heart of the Great Salt Lake Adventure

Nearest

Dec 1, 2025

Start

8:30 am

Seats remaining

13

From

$99

Details

Duration

7 hours (approx.)

Upcoming Dates

Dec 1, Dec 2

Group Size

13 persons

Cancellation

within 24 hours

Languages

EN

Transportation

Walking/Auto

Theme

Active

Time of Day

Morning

Description

Join us for a thrilling eco-expedition to one of Utah’s natural wonders — Antelope Island, set amid the shimmering azure waters of the Great Salt Lake.

Separated from the mainland, the island preserves a unique balance of untouched landscapes, diverse habitats, and extraordinary wildlife. Hold your breath as free-roaming herds of majestic bison, graceful antelope, and timid deer appear across the open plains. Keep an eye out for clever coyotes, curious porcupines, and jackrabbits with ears almost larger than their heads. Above you, more than 250 bird species fill the sky with motion, color, and sound.

The island’s cultural heritage is just as remarkable as its nature. We will visit the historic Fielding Garr Ranch — the oldest preserved structure in the state of Utah — and discover stories of the people who shaped the history of the Great Salt Lake.

We conclude our journey with a gentle hike to one of the island’s scenic peaks. From the top, breathtaking panoramas unfold: the endless mirror of the Great Salt Lake, the glowing sky reflected on its surface, and the Wasatch Mountains crowned with snow on the horizon.

The adventure begins in the morning, as the desert awakens and the first sunlight paints the island in warm golden tones — the perfect moment to feel the peace, harmony, and quiet magic of nature.

 

  • Which animal is the true symbol of the Great Salt Lake ecosystem?
  • Which Indigenous tribes originally inhabited the island?
  • Who were the first pioneers to settle here?
  • How do wild animals survive on an island surrounded by salt water?
  • Why is Utah’s oldest standing building located on Antelope Island?
  • Which birds are the largest and the smallest species found here?
  • When did one of the largest ranches in the American West operate on the island?
  • How did Hollywood help make Antelope Island famous?
  • Why does the water level of the Great Salt Lake rise and fall, and how does this affect the island?
  • How did North America’s largest and fastest land mammals come to live here?
  • Where did the island’s first fruit tree come from?
  • Why is Antelope Island considered one of the best stargazing locations in the United States?

 

 

Important

To make your journey as pleasant and safe as possible, we recommend bringing:

  • Comfortable footwear — ideal for light walking or short hikes on Antelope Island.
    Hat or cap — the sun can be strong in warmer months, and it can get windy during the cooler seasons.
    • Sunglasses — bright light and reflections from the Great Salt Lake can be intense year-round.
    • Sunscreen — Utah has high UV levels in every season, so we recommend using sunscreen even on cloudy days, especially if you have sensitive skin.
    • Moisturizing cream — useful during fall, winter, and spring, when the air is dry and the wind can be strong.

 

  • Please note: the tour starts in the early hours, the most magical time of day on Antelope Island, when wildlife is active and the landscape is filled with morning light.
    The duration may vary slightly depending on natural conditions, so you can fully enjoy the peaceful beauty of this unique place.

Included

  • Professional guide
  • Bottled water
  • Trekking poles
  • Binoculars for convenient wildlife viewing
  • Comfortable transportation from/to a hotel/location
  • Insurance coverage.
  • Applicable Taxes and Fees

Not Included

  • Personal expenses and souvenirs.
  • Gratuities for guide (optional).

Photos

Route

08:30–08:30 AM – Hotel pickup or meeting point

We’ll meet you at your hotel or another convenient location (you’ll provide the address when booking). After your reservation is confirmed, our team will contact you to coordinate the exact pickup time and details. Sit back and enjoy a comfortable ride in our modern Mercedes Sprinter.

Departure from Salt Lake City (Pass By)

The tour begins with an introduction to the history of Utah and its surrounding environment, which impresses with striking contrasts: majestic mountains on the horizon, wide valleys, and the unique landscapes of the Great Salt Lake. The road to the island is already an adventure, during which you will see how the scenery changes and how, from afar, the incredible panorama of Antelope Island gradually unfolds.

35–45 min drive – Arrival at Antelope Island, in the Great Salt Lake State Park

This island — the largest in the lake — features a unique geological landscape and ecosystem. Our exploration begins here.

15 min – Scenic Marina

This is where the unique brine shrimp industry began. These tiny creatures thrive in water with salinity higher than the ocean’s, forming the foundation of life in the Great Salt Lake. Their resilience and uniqueness have also made them an important economic resource for the region.

30 min – Ladyfinger Point Trailhead

A short walk to the overlook introduces you to the island, where panoramic views unfold — the lake’s surface stretching out and dissolving into the horizon.

30 min – Unique Sand Beach

A peaceful stroll along Bridger Bay Beach to the water’s edge offers a sense of calm and a close connection with nature. The sand here is truly unique — you’ll notice its secret the moment you touch it. We’ll also make a brief stop at the temporary Visitor Center, set up during renovation of the main State Park Center.

1 hour – Wildlife Viewing

Numerous wild animal species live freely across the island — along open plains, hiking trails, and the shoreline. You’ll have an unforgettable opportunity to observe them safely and up close. The highlight is one of the oldest surviving wild bison herds in the United States, with more than 500 animals roaming the island.

1 hour – Pioneer History at Fielding Garr Ranch

The centerpiece of our tour is a visit to Fielding Garr Ranch — the first permanent settlement on the island, which played a key role in its development and preservation. Here you’ll hear captivating stories about the brave Mormon pioneers, the first Europeans to arrive on Antelope Island, and their struggle against harsh conditions and unpredictable nature.

1 hour – Island's Main Viewpoint

To conclude the tour, you'll visit Buffalo Point Trail, where you'll learn more about the island’s geology and the formation of the Great Salt Lake — a remnant of prehistoric Lake Bonneville that once covered much of western Utah. For those seeking a bit of activity, we offer an easy 25-minute hike along a 5,300-foot (1.6 km) trail with an elevation gain of about 216–249 feet (66–67 m). From the summit, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the lake’s shimmering surface, distant mountain ranges, and the island’s vast landscapes — a world where nature has remained virtually untouched for centuries.

2:00–3:00 PM (approx.) – Return to Salt Lake City

We head back to Salt Lake City with drop-off at your hotel or another convenient location within Salt Lake County.

Start Place of the Tour

Family History Library, 32, West Temple, Salt Lake City, Salt Lake County, Utah, 84150, United States


Your guide will be waiting for you at the main entrance of the FamilySearch Center, next to a Mercedes Sprinter. Please arrive 5 minutes early. After booking, we’ll contact you to confirm your exact pickup time.
Parking is available at the Conference Center, City Creek, and Park Place garages.

If this meeting point is not convenient, we can also pick you up directly from your place of stay in Salt Lake City or Utah County. Simply provide your address in the booking form, and we will confirm the pickup location. After booking, we’ll contact you to confirm the exact pickup time and meeting point. This tour includes pickup and drop-off at your accommodation within Utah County.

FAQ

1) Will I be able to take great photos of the bison on the Antelope Island morning tour ?

Definitely! We’ll help you capture amazing photos on your phone so the memories of this journey stay with you forever.
During the tour, you’ll have the chance to photograph wild animals from different angles while keeping a safe distance — ensuring the experience is exciting and completely safe.
Our guides will show you the best photo spots with majestic island landscapes in the background. The endless waters of the Great Salt Lake and the silhouettes of roaming bison create a perfect Wild West prairie scene — a breathtaking backdrop for unforgettable pictures.

2) What is the best season to visit Antelope Island ?

Antelope Island is magical year-round, with each season revealing its own unique beauty. It’s a paradise for photographers and nature lovers — every visit brings new colors, perspectives, and unforgettable memories.

• Summer transforms the island into a bird sanctuary. You can watch majestic white pelicans nesting on the Great Salt Lake, their graceful flight creating perfect moments for stunning photos over the shimmering water.

• Fall paints the landscape in warm golden tones as the leaves drop and wildlife becomes easier to spot in the open spaces — an ideal season to capture bison, antelope, and deer against dramatic autumn skies.

• Winter turns the scenery into a living postcard with snow-capped mountain peaks. Clear air, brilliant light, and the contrast between white snow and deep-blue lake water create ideal conditions for landscape photography.

• Spring brings renewal: blooming grasses, newborn wildlife, and soft morning light that fills photos with warmth and life.

And at any time of year, sunrises and sunsets are the island’s crowning glory. They offer extraordinary light and unforgettable colors that linger not only in photographs — but in your memory forever.

3) Will there be restroom stops and food options along the route ?

Absolutely! We make more than 10 stops during the Antelope Island tour, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the views, take photos, and relax. The island has well-developed infrastructure, so convenient restroom access is available throughout the tour.
While meals are not included in the tour price, we provide bottled water, hot beverages (tea, coffee, hot chocolate), and granola bars. If you have dietary needs or prefer regular snacks, feel free to bring your favorites. You’re welcome to eat during our longer stops or on the bus — whichever is most comfortable for you.

4) Will children enjoy the Antelope Island tour ?

Yes, they will! This tour is great for families with kids. On Antelope Island, nature comes to life right before your eyes. Wide-open spaces, peaceful surroundings, and close encounters with wildlife turn the trip into a true family adventure.
Children love spotting bison, antelope, deer, and many kinds of birds in their natural habitat. They also enjoy exploring the shoreline of the Great Salt Lake — discovering tiny brine shrimp, watching silvery foam form on the waves, spotting burrowing owls, and seeing mighty bison, the largest land mammals in North America. It’s more than just a tour — it’s an authentic
American safari that inspires curiosity, excitement, and a love for nature.Our guides care about comfort for all ages. The pace is relaxed, with plenty of stops for rest, photos, and wildlife watching, so the journey stays enjoyable and stress-free for the whole family.

5) Will there be places along the route to purchase souvenirs ?

Yes, definitely! We include a souvenir stop during the Antelope Island tour, so you can bring home mementos of this incredible experience and the island’s unique character.

Your guide will also showcase exclusive handcrafted souvenirs created by our Matei Travel team. Each item is handmade and one-of-a-kind, capturing the wild spirit of Antelope Island — the shimmering tones of the salt lake, the colors of the sky, and the imagery of the iconic bison. It’s a wonderful way to take a piece of this unforgettable place with you.

Plus, every guest receives a complimentary Matei Travel souvenir as a keepsake of your Antelope Island adventure and the memories you’ve made.

6) What activities and recreation are available on the island ?

After this wonderful tour, you can continue exploring the island on your own. In summer, you can enjoy an unforgettable experience of swimming in the Great Salt Lake — with salt levels higher than the Dead Sea, you’ll effortlessly float on the surface as if weightless.
For your comfort, the equipped beach has freshwater showers to rinse off salt crystals (available only during the summer season).
Year-round, the island offers camping facilities, horseback riding, and electric bike rentals, allowing you to get even closer to wildlife and enjoy the peaceful, scenic landscapes.

7) Do we organize private tours ?

Yes, we do! We’ll be happy to design a personalized tour just for you — whether it’s a private experience or a custom trip for your group.
Private tours are perfect for special occasions:
• Romantic getaways — create unforgettable moments just for two
• Birthdays or anniversaries — celebrate surrounded by breathtaking scenery
• Friends visiting from other states or abroad — show them the real Utah.
• Family tours with children — a flexible, kid-friendly adventure where all ages can explore safely and enjoy memorable time together.
• Corporate events — impress business partners with a truly unique adventure
You can also purchase a Matei Travel gift certificate when booking. Travel is the best gift — it brings emotions, inspiration, and memories that last a lifetime.

8) Why travel with Matei Travel ?

Our guides are genuinely passionate about Utah’s nature, history, and spirit. With professional training in tourism and years of experience hosting travelers from around the world, we offer more than facts — we share inspiration. We reveal Utah through the eyes of people who truly know it and love it.

Every journey with us is personal. We take you to hidden places that many visitors never see and tell stories you won’t find in guidebooks. We don’t rush — we give you time to feel the atmosphere, notice the details, and breathe in the peace and harmony of nature.

Our experience, professionalism, attention to detail, and sincere desire to make each trip unforgettable — that’s what sets Matei Travel apart.

Ticket

Adults (+16 years)

$99

Children (3 to 15 years)

$50

Infants (under 3 years)

$0

Total:

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