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Great Salt Lake, Antelope Island, Golden Spike full-day tour
The Great Salt Lake created a natural fence for the oldest ranch in the west, keeping the livestock on Antelope Island. Today, the natural corral is home to one of the world’s largest wild herds of bison. The lake was also a barrier in connecting the nation, so the Transcontinental Railroad had to route above the lake where the golden spike was driven in 1869. On this tour, we'll experience the bison and the transcontinental railroad. We'll see America's Dead Sea and lots of wildlife.
Meeting Point
At your Salt Lake City hotel
Meeting
Drive just under an hour to Syracuse, Utah to access Antelope Island State Park over the Davis County Causeway.
Visitors Center and Bridger Bay Beach on Antelope Island
We'll stop at the visitors center for an introduction to the island and drive by the largest beach on the island. Depending on the time of year, we can customize the itinerary to include time to go out and swim in the lake. However, due to Utah’s current drought conditions, the water’s edge is a very far walk and the water is very low near the beach.
Scenic Drive on the Island
First, we’ll drive up to Buffalo Point where you can get views of the western side of the island as well as the Great Salt Lake. Then, we’ll drive down the eastern side of the island to the ranch. This is where we might see a lot of wildlife including the bison herd, pronghorn (antelope), coyotes, and more.
Fielding Garr Ranch
In operation for more than 130 years, the Fielding Garr Ranch offers a glimpse into ranching that few places can. We’ll visit the historic ranch house built in the 1840s, Utah’s oldest building still on its original foundation and not in ruins. We’ll also see the bunkhouse and cellar, spring house, and other ranch facilities. The grove of trees near the ranch house offers a lovely oasis for us and migrating birds. Hopefully, we’ll catch a peek of the resident great horned owl couple that calls the ranch surrounds their home.
Lunch
Next, we’ll stop for lunch. My three recommendations include the Island Buffalo Grill for scrumptious bison burgers (if open), The Burger Bar in Roy, UT, that also serves bison burgers along with elk and beef, or Golden Spike Burgers with their gourmet-style burgers in Corrine, UT. All three restaurants offer other menu items including vegetarian options. They are all locally owned.
Golden Spike National Historical Park
On May 10, 1869, the Transcontinental Railroad was completed with the driving of the golden spike. This forever changed Utah and the United States. At the national park dedicated to preserving this history, we’ll drive on (weather permitting) original railroad grade and hopefully see replica locomotives. Depending on the time of year and availability, we may see the Jupiter and 119 engines on the tracks at the Golden Spike Site behind the park’s visitor center or we’ll tour the Engine House where they are kept when not in use.
Northrup Grumman Rocket Garden
On our way back to the interstate highway, we’ll stop for a few minutes at the rocket garden outside of Northrop Grumman manufacturing and testing facility. The rocket garden features several examples of the facility’s work including a Minuteman missile and a rocket booster from NASA’s space shuttle program.
End of the tour
We’ll drive back to Salt Lake City where I’ll drop you off at your Salt Lake City hotel or other nearby destination.
Ending Point
At your Salt Lake City hotel
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Inclusions & Exclusions
guide fee
hotel pick-up and drop-off in Salt Lake City
transportation and fuel (during the tour)
bottled water
admissions (when applicable)
lunch
souvenirs
additional personal expenses
Tour Important Information
For larger groups, an additional fee will be charged to rent a vehicle large enough for the group unless the group provides the vehicle. I'm happy to be a step-on guide for larger groups.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as we will be getting out and walking at several points along the tour.
I will have complimentary bottled water and snacks in the car.
Please note that times are estimates. Depending on availability and other factors, times and even access to locations on the itinerary are subject to change.
Also, I can tailor this tour to your requests including specific interests (art, architecture, religious heritage, military history, sports, etc.), mobility issues, etc. Please contact me to customize this tour for you.
Not available in May or June due to biting gnat season
Important message from the guide
For larger groups, an additional fee will be charged to rent a vehicle large enough for the group unless the group provides the vehicle.
I'm happy to be a step-on guide for larger groups.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
