Frary Peak is the highest point on Antelope Island and offers spectacular views of the Island, the Great Salt Lake, and other geological and marshy features sure to delight your eye from the unique desert landscape. Although 6,520 feet is a little guy here in Utah, you’ll still be in for a good hike with a 2,335-foot elevation gain and a 6.9-mile, out-and-back trek. Even when the valley is a little hazy, the views are stunning and uniquely beautiful in every direction that will ignite your sense of wonder. Frary Peak is the highest peak on Antelope Island.

This hike is quite challenging and strenuous, but even if you’re not an avid hiker it’s still doable, just give yourself plenty of breaks for water and rest and plan on an extra hour or so of hiking time. If the weather is great, we suggest adding more time to hang out at the peak. There is little to no shade on this trail so come prepared with a hat, sunscreen, at least 2 liters of water, snacks, and always bug spray. We’d recommend hiking poles due to the steep grade, although we did it without them and survived, we envied passersby that remembered to bring theirs. Another recommendation is to pack a lunch and leave early. Start no later than 8:30 am, that way you can take a long, hard-earned break at the summit to eat lunch and enjoy the views.

The trail is easy to follow and clearly marked. Once you reach the ridgeline, you can choose your own adventure on the last stretch to the peak: either scramble on all fours over the rocky ridge (which is not a designated trail or easy route – use only if you’re confident and unafraid of heights) or you can follow the trail off to the right on the west side that has a slight elevation drop before a climb up to the peak.

Whilst at the top, you’ll want to make sure you sign their summit book so you can memorialize your harrowing journey to the top, brag about the cool stuff you saw, write a poem inspired by the vista, or just use it as a platform to ask for more bison.

**Don’t forget to sign the summit book to document your harrowing adventure to the peak!

Trail Information

• • • Difficulty: Hard & Strenuous
    • Distance: 6.9-miles
    • Elevation Gain: 2,335 feet
    • Time: 3-5 hours
    • Trail Type: Dirt, gravel, rock
    • Fees: $15 State Park fee (the causeway fee is included with your entrance fee unless you have a Utah State Parks Pass, which won’t cover the $2 causeway fee)
    • Park Hours:
      • Summer 6:00 am – 10:00 pm
      • Winter 6:00 am – 7:00 pm
    • Dogs: Allowed
    • Parking: Lot at trailhead
    • Restroom: Just before trailhead
    • Trailhead Coordinates: 40.9936944, -112.2047443

Whenever you are headed to Antelope Island, we always recommend having bug spray, warm layers, and a headlamp if you’re heading there to catch the sunset. Make sure you are bison aware, this is their home and sometimes they will interrupt your hiking plans. Always prioritize your safety and realize that it is best to turn back if you can’t find an adequate detour around them. As a general rule, if they notice you, you are too close. When taking pictures, selfie from afar or from the safety of your car.

We are lucky that Antelope Island is open year-round, just make sure you are aware of the hours so that you don’t arrive to a shut entrance gate. There is a fee to enter the park, and if you have a Utah State Parks Pass, note that you will still be required to pay a $2 causeway fee. This hike is nice in the fall and winter, if you are there in the summer, bring lots of water and note that there is no shade on this trail.

PSA: Be aware that typically April through the end of June is no-see-um season. No-see-ums are the resident springtime biting gnats that hatch when the weather starts to warm up the island. This is still a great time to see the island but be aware before you go and wear clothing that has good coverage over your skin, gloves, and yes, the head net. Mosquito head nets will not be sufficient for no-see-ums, make sure you get one specifically designated for no-see-ums. Bug spray is ineffective against them and will not protect you! Their bites itch and swell similar to mosquito bites.

Are you ready to hit the trail?

It’s always a good idea to brush up on your outdoor skills before heading out into the wilderness. We have compiled some good resources below to review responsible hiking practices, wildlife safety, and general preparedness. You can also find directions, read reviews, and connect to our social media as you scroll through our options below! Don’t forget to tag us in your photos at @discoverdavis, we love to see how you #playindavis!

Feelin’ hungry?

We love a good trail snack but nothing beats a good meal or treat after a hike! Whether or not you’ve done one mile or ten, you’ll want to fuel up before your hike or recharge after with these nearby food options.

Local recommendations nearby the Frary Peak Trail:

If you want to grab breakfast on your way out to the island, we’d recommend Waffle Stop in Syracuse. After fueling up on a good breakfast, you’re in perfect shape for a long, easy hike. After your hike, head to the Island Buffalo Grill to try some bison burgers! Located on the West side of Antelope Island at Bridger Bay Beach and open seasonally from March 1 – November 1. If you’re visiting during the off-season, either bring your own lunch or grab something on your way out at either Hug-Hes Cafe or The Bird. You can also head back to Waffle Stop to try a Salvadorean pupusa.

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