Roadside Attraction Fielding Garr Ranch
Antelope Island
Overview
The Fielding Garr Ranch was settled in 1848, a mere year after the Mormon pioneers first came to the Wasatch Front. The ranch, on the southeastern side of Antelope Island, is one of the oldest ranches in the Western United States and is at Garr Springs, one of the largest springs on Antelope Island. Fielding Garr, for whom the ranch is named, was the man that started it. He was a widower with nine children that was instructed to start the ranch by the LDS church.
The ranch became part of the newly designated Antelope Island State park in 1981, when ranching operations ceased. Today, the ranch is on the National Register of Historic Places, comprising about 6 acres and a handful of buildings. The state park offers tours of this fascinating place. This is an excellent outing for those interested in the ranching history of the west.
The state park has excellent information for a self-guided tour available on their website: https://stateparks.utah.gov/parks/antelope-island/ranch-tour/
Getting There
The trailhead is reach by first getting to Antelope Island. This is off I-15, west of Layton. Take exit 332 off I-15, and head west on Antelope Drive. About 7 miles from the freeway is the entrance to the park.
From the entrance to the park, cross the causeway and go left at the first junction after the causeway. Shortly after take the next left, staying on Antelope Road that is signed for Frary Peak. Follow this paved road about 10.5 miles to the Fielding Garr Ranch on the left (east) side of the road. There is a large parking area available.
Route
From the parking area, head into the ranch! There are signs with information about the ranch as well as a vault toilet. This makes a nice place for a picnic.
Maps
| Fielding Garr Ranch |
12T 401625E 4531229N 40°55'35"N 112°10'06"W |