Sept 11 - Sentry Trail (Antelope Island)

Sunny day with highs around 84. But it's 59 degrees this morning so I'm abandoning a mountain hike for one on Antelope Island. I'm hoping for Sentry Trail.

The record breaking heat moved out and the California smoke moved in - yuk! But I'll still take the cooler temps.

When I arrive on the island, there's a big flock of Canadian Geese flying overhead -- but north is the confusing direction.

There seems to be more water than normal in Farmington Bay and the ducks and shore birds are sure loving it!

I arrive on the island and head towards the Ranch.

There are bison behind the Visitor's Center.

Continuing down the island, there are several bison sightings. Many of the bison are high on ridges this morning.

I see a lone Pronghorn near Frary Peak. And several groups of bison down to the Ranch.

When I arrive at the Ranch, there are no bison at Mushroom Springs! Yea!

Starting off I notice a good herd bison south the trail; hoping they don't decide to move north.

Sunflowers are in bloom

but the other yellow composites are fading. I do find one blooming purple aster!

I always spot a lone male Pronghorn before I reach the first hill.

And some Bee Balm too!

On my way the first part hill I notice a small herd of bison moving along the ridge. We could have a meeting on the way down.

Along the hike, I'm seeing dragonflies, a Common Checkered Skipper (only 1) and a Juba Skipper (only 1 - I think it's a Juba).

There are many small lizards zipping around this morning too.

There are moths flying as well. 

Views are not good due to the smoke.

I make it to the ridge. I can see south down the island but all smoky.

I take a break at the picnic table trying to decide if I want to take a chance crossing the ridge and possibly meeting the bison. I decide to head back down; not in a risk taking mood today.

I head down. Definitely not my usual way down so the view is always fun.

When I reach the switchback, I notice a herd of bison moving towards the downhill part of my trail. I might have to take a detour.

When I get to the next curve, they are spilling over my trail (and there are bison below moving towards Mushroom Springs). Time for a detour and a very convienent bison trail with a "No Trail" sign on it. Oh well, I need to get down now.

Definitely much quicker to go straight down the hill instead of weaving back-n-forth.

I reach the trail again. The bison are at the corner. One appears to be staring me down. But I don't care because I'm heading straight to my car.

Good thing I decided to head back down, I really could've been stuck. :)

Back at my car, I head back up the island, spotting a lone female Pronghorn along the way.

There is now a big herd of bison on the shoreline near the 1st watering hole/Burrowing Owls; they were up on the ridge when I came by earlier.


Good day! 


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