Nov 3 - Gravel Pit/Beacon Hill (Antelope Island)

 Sunny day with highs near 70. Heading up to Antelope Island to hike up to Beacon Hill and yes, I'm taking a vacation day today.

Uneventful drive to the gate and for the most part crossing the causeway. However, I do spot a coyote moving east in the distance. He definitely caught breakfast today!

And that Blue Heron again!

I reach the Island and there are no bison behind the VC but there are a few just on the other side of the fence.

Very quiet under the Frary Peak area where I see a handful of bison and then a bigger herd and then another big herd! Some are near the road. And I see a "little red" too!

And a bit farther down is a lone bison.

I continue onto the Ranch and there's no bison down near Sentry Peak. I really should hike that doing Beacon Hill.

I turn and drive back to the Gravel Pit TH. Thankfully, I see no bison around so I gear up for the hike.

As I'm nearing my climb out of the Pit, I'm being watched by between 7-10 Pronghorn on top of the ridge. So glad they are still hanging out here especially after the round-up last week-end.

I reach the ridge and head towards Beacon Hill. The trail is clear with no bison in view. They've all moved on from the torment of the round-up. Lucky me!

Just quiet walk down toward Beacon Hill and up to the top. The only critters I see are 3 people on bikes.

The view wonderful as always.

After a brief break, I make my way back. And those Pronghorn are still standing there to bid me a good day!


Good day!

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