Great Salt Lake Birding Tour: Antelope Island & Shorebird Hotspots
A 4–6 hour private birding tour of the Great Salt Lake that pairs easy walks on Antelope Island with scope views of migrating shorebirds and resident bison. Ideal for photographers and first-time birders who want a fast, informative introduction to this saline ecosystem.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring your own binoculars
Guides provide a spotting scope, but personal binoculars let you scan between scope setups and avoid missing fast-moving flocks.
Shield up for sun and wind
Wide-brim hat, sunglasses, and windproof layers are necessary—sun reflects strongly off the salt flats and gusts can drop temperatures quickly.
Hydrate and carry snacks
Tour includes bottled water, but bring a refillable bottle and energy snacks—there’s little shade and the saline air is dehydrating.
Give birds space
Keep noise low and follow your guide’s approach limits—disturbing feeding or nesting birds wastes their critical energy during migration and breeding seasons.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Fielding Garr Ranch on Antelope Island — historic homestead with quiet shoreline views
- •Farmington Bay mudflats — excellent for spotting migrating sandpipers away from busier overlooks
Wildlife
- •American bison
- •California gull
Conservation Note
Declining inflows have lowered lake levels, stressing habitat—practice Leave No Trace, avoid driving on exposed flats, and follow local water-conservation guidance.
The Great Salt Lake is a remnant of Pleistocene Lake Bonneville; human history includes indigenous use of the shoreline and later settler stories like the California Gull saving crops.
Photographer's Notes
- • Antelope Island Causeway overlook
- • Fielding Garr Ranch shoreline
- • North Shore mudflats near Farmington Bay
What to Bring
BinocularsEssential
Handy for scanning flocks between scope sessions and for personal viewing of distant birds.
Sun hat and UV sunglassesEssential
Protects against strong reflected sunlight off the lake surface.
Windproof outer layerEssential
Blocks the lake wind and keeps you comfortable during exposed stops.
Sturdy closed-toe shoesEssential
Useful for walking across salt-crusted shores and uneven island trails.
Common Questions
Do I need to be an experienced birder?
No—this tour welcomes beginners and experienced birders; guides interpret sightings and point out identification features.
Is the spotting scope powerful enough?
Yes—guides supply a 30–60x spotting scope for close views, but bringing binoculars improves your chances of catching moving flocks.
How much walking is involved?
Expect a few short walks and standing at overlooks—total walking is typically under 3 miles with minimal elevation change.
Can I see bison on the tour?
Yes—Antelope Island hosts a resident bison herd that is often visible from short roadside stops and overlooks.
Are tours weather-dependent?
Tours run year-round; guides will adjust stops for weather but cancellation for light rain or wind is uncommon—check the cancellation policy for refunds.
Is the area stroller or wheelchair accessible?
Many viewing areas and the causeway are accessible; however, some island dirt roads and short trails are uneven—contact the supplier for specific accessibility needs.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–6 hours
Location
Salt Lake City, Utah
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short, flat walks and standing at scopes for extended periods.
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