Native American Guided Backpack – Overnight – The Great Salt Lake

Discover Antelope Island and The Great Salt Lake on an Overnight Backpacking Trip

The Native American Guided Backpack tour in Ogden, USA, offers a unique way to experience the Great Salt Lake’s stunning landscape and abundant wildlife. Priced at $250 per person, this 2-day adventure includes all necessary gear and meals, making it accessible without camping equipment. With a focus on cultural stories and nature education, the tour is led by a knowledgeable Native American guide who shares insights into both the land’s history and its modern significance.

Booking well in advance—around 72 days ahead on average—this guided experience appeals to those with strong physical fitness and a curiosity about Native American culture. While the trip involves rough terrain and long hikes, the chance to see up to 200,000 migratory birds, bison, and antelope makes it a meaningful adventure for nature lovers. Keep in mind, the maximum group size is just 4 travelers, which ensures a personalized experience.

Key Points

• Price of $250 per person covers 2 days of guided backpacking, meals, and all gear.
• The tour departs from Ogden and includes backcountry camping in Antelope Island State Park.
• Wildlife viewing features bison, antelope, coyote, and hundreds of thousands of migratory birds.
• The first day involves a 5-mile trek to a remote camping site, with star gazing in a Dark Sky Park.
• Day 2 offers a 7-mile hike across the Mars-like terrain with panoramic views of the Salt Lake.
• The tour emphasizes Native American stories and culture, enriching the outdoor experience.

Starting Point and Logistics of the Tour

The adventure begins at the meeting point in Hooper, Utah, specifically at 2QG6+24 Hooper, at 10:00 am. The tour is designed for a small group, with a maximum of 4 participants, which helps ensure a personalized and engaging experience. The entire trip wraps up back at the same meeting point around 3 pm on the second day.

This tour is suitable for individuals with a strong physical fitness level and who are prepared for long hikes over moderate terrain. The mobility involved in crossing rough landscapes should be considered when planning participation. The tour features no camping equipment needed—all gear, including backpacks, tents, sleeping mats, and meals, is provided, making packing light and hassle-free.

Exploring Antelope Island State Park

Antelope Island State Park is the highlight of this tour, offering a close-up view of wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. The first stop on the tour involves a 45-minute drive from the meeting point, arriving at the park by 10 am. Here, visitors can observe up to 200,000 migratory birds, including the possibility of bison, antelope, and coyote.

The first day’s hike covers 5 miles toward a backcountry camping spot, with plenty of opportunities to admire the vast open landscapes and wildlife sightings. The dark sky designation of Antelope Island makes it an ideal location for star gazing at night, adding a special dimension to the overnight experience.

Night Under the Stars at a Dark Sky Park

One of the key features of this trip is spending the night outdoors in the dark sky preserve. The tour provides tents, sleeping mats, and bags, so there’s no need to bring your own camping gear. The night sky is a major highlight since Antelope Island is recognized as a Bronze Star Dark Sky National Park, famous for its minimal light pollution.

Camping under the stars offers an authentic wilderness experience and an opportunity for quiet reflection amid the natural sounds of the island. The star gazing is complemented by stories and insights shared by the Native American guide, connecting the land’s natural beauty with its cultural significance.

Day Two: Trekking the Mars-Like Landscape

The second day revolves around exploring the more remote backcountry of Antelope Island, with a 7-mile hike that traverses easy to moderate terrain. The backdrop features the Great Salt Lake as well as expansive, almost extraterrestrial landscapes reminiscent of the surface of Mars.

The route is deliberately designed for hiking enthusiasts seeking solitude and panoramic views, with no strict time limit—the focus remains on enjoying the environment. The hike concludes around 3 pm, giving ample time for reflection and an easy return journey to the starting point.

Native American Stories and Cultural Insights

Throughout the tour, the Native American guide shares stories, history, and cultural insights related to the land and its significance. These narratives deepen the understanding of how the land has been honored and used by Native peoples for thousands of years.

This focus on culture and nature connection enriches the outdoor experience, transforming a simple hike into a meaningful exploration of history and modern Native American life in Utah. The guide’s storytelling offers a broader appreciation of the landscape’s spiritual significance and traditional practices.

The Experience Provider and Booking Details

Operated by Blake Dyer, this tour requires prior confirmation and can be canceled up to 3 days in advance for a full refund. The tour includes all necessary gear and meals, so participants only need to arrive prepared for physical activity.

The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the tour is accessible for those comfortable with intense physical activity. Contact information for the provider includes a phone number (+18017129000) and an email ([email protected]) for inquiries or special requests.

The Sum Up: A Unique Blend of Nature and Native Culture

This overnight backpacking tour offers an immersive experience that combines wildlife viewing, backcountry hiking, and Native American storytelling. The expert guidance and all-inclusive setup make it ideal for those seeking a meaningful outdoor adventure without the hassle of gear.

While the long hikes and remote wilderness location might be challenging for some, the opportunity to see thousands of migratory birds, bison, and antelope makes it worthwhile. This trip suits adventurers with a good fitness level who are eager to connect deeply with nature and Native American culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $250 per person fee covers all gear, meals, transportation to and from Antelope Island, and guided experience.

Is special physical fitness required?
Yes, participants should have a strong physical fitness level due to the long hikes and rough terrain.

Can I bring food allergies or restrictions?
Yes, the meals are provided, and travelers are encouraged to message with any food restrictions or allergies when booking.

What is the best time of year to go?
While the specific season is not mentioned, the presence of migratory birds and the dark sky designation suggest that the tour is ideal during times with good weather and bird migration activity.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 4 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.