Feb 9 - Gravel Pit (Antelope Island)

 Finally some sun on a week-end! And a little bit of snow as well after an unexpected snow squall late yesterday afternoon left about 1 inch of snow on the ground in Salt Lake. Finally looks like winter again!

Well its 28 degrees and I'm heading once again to Antelope Island for an actual hike today!

When I arrive at the gate, the flag is dead still - yea!

Crossing the crossing, I only see ducks near the bridge.

I turn and head towards the Ranch. Not going all the way since I took the drive yesterday. But I do want to see what's around Frary Peak; never know if the snow yesterday.

Unlike yesterday, there are no bison that are visible near the VC. Hoping they are not strung out along the Gravel Pit because that is my hike today.

I reach White Rock area and the Pronghorn are still here! A better picture because of the dusting of snow!

On the other end of White Rock, I see a lone coyote.

I scan for another because I've seen two here before. Assuming they are mates. I do not see another.

I continue on to Frary Peak and find no critter except a large hawk.

Time to turn around and head to the Gravel Pit.

Coming into the White Rock area, I'm looking for the coyote. And I not only find it but it's with a mate!! They are standing by each other. Pretty cool!




The Pronghorn have moved lower towards the road.

There is another car when I arrive. Still around 27 degrees and sunny. I gear up and start thru the frozen (but very pretty) landscape.

I'm out of the Pit and I look around for bison and they have moved on as there are none in sight.

Pretty quiet trail this morning, just enjoying the silence.

I reach Beacon Hill and there are no tracks in the snow; maybe I'll find something up there. I only find wintery landscape and an awesome view. 

And still no bison in sight.

After a short break, I start my way back.

Nearing the Corrals, I do see a few bison laying down by the corral.

Time to head home. See a Bald Eagle sitting in some water surrounded by ducks. Pretty funny.

And I see a perched Kestrel.

Great day! (And yea for finally getting to hike!!)

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