March 19 - Frary Peak (Antelope Island)

 Sunny day with highs near 70 degrees.

Heading up to Antelope Island to hike the Frary Peak trail. I'm not going to Frary Peak; I'm afraid of that last connection so I'm only going to Stringham Peak. The peak is at 6345 ft and it's 240 ft lower than Frary Peak and a 1/2 mile short. It's always my stop.

As I roll thru the Antelope Island entry gate, I see 4 White Pelicans flying overhead - way cool!! I've only ever seen them once before several years ago.

When I get to the island, I head south towards Frary Peak. As I drive south, I decide to drive the island and check out the bison situation at the Sentry Trail. (I so want to hike that trail; someday the bison will move.)

Surprise, the bison that have been hanging around the rocks, have moved to the north side of the fence.

The bison that have hanging around the 1st water bin (4 of them) are still in the same area but today, are in the sagebrush near the one. In fact, one is right at the road sticking out his tongue - perfect view!!!

I don't see another animal until there a huge bison herd past Frary Peak. There's bison on both sides of the road in the distance.

Rolling up at the Ranch, I see bison south of the trail (yea) but there's a small herd standing near the road just north of the Sentry parking. Ok, Frary Peak is it!!

I turn around and head back north towards Frary Peak. 

Along the way, a male Pheasant crosses the road in front of my car; closest I've ever got to one!!!

Then it's up to the parking lot where there are probably 10 cars already and it's only 9:15am.

I gear up and start up the initial hill (700ft of elevation in 0.7 miles). Tough start.

I reach the top where the trail levels off as it crosses to the west side. I'm only finding a few Spring Parsley and Biscuitroot; hoping to see Spring Beauties up top.

Beautiful day as I continue up, up, up. 

I see no bison, no Bighorn sheep or other critters.

Before I know, I'm on the final uphill section. 

There's still a little bit of snow here and there. And one small portion of the trail has snow and muddy. But no Spring Beauties but I think this is one emerging.

I reach Stringham Peak (10:50am) - what a view!

I find a spot to take a seat and enjoy the view of Frary Peak. (Some day I'll venture out there.)

And the surrounding area.

To the north, I see white birds flying; they are Pelicans!

Well, it's time to head down. Many people coming up now; I'm constantly stepping off the trail. (Where are all the people coming from?!)

On the way down, I find what looks like Spring Beauty

and Camas emerging.


Nice view of White Rock.

Back on the flat section after the initial uphill, I find Paintbrush emerging and a lizard.


Then it's the final downhill where I run into a guy I work with (and his wife). Back at my car at 12:20.

Awesome day! 


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