Frary Peak Trail - Image 1
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Frary Peak Trail

4.7
·73 reviews·Syracuse, United States

Conquer Frary Peak Trail for breathtaking 360° views of the Great Salt Lake and Wasatch Mountains. A challenging, exposed hike rewarding the determine...

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant temps, fewer bugs

CrowdMedium
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Frary Peak Trail - Image 1

Frary Peak Trail

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant temps, fewer bugs

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Conquer Frary Peak Trail for breathtaking 360° views of the Great Salt Lake and Wasatch Mountains. A challenging, exposed hike rewarding the determined.

4.7
(73 reviews)

"The views from the top are amazing, one of the best around SLC!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Bug Spray is Non-Negotiable

Bring strong bug spray, a head net, and consider bug repellent for clothing. Swarms can be intense! :bug:

Hydration is Key

Carry plenty of water, at least 2-3 liters per person, and consider electrolytes. No shade means rapid dehydration. :droplet:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Summit Views

Summit Views

Frary Peak Summit

Panoramic 360-degree views of the Great Salt Lake, Wasatch Mountains, and surrounding desert. Absolutely breathtaking!

Instagram+1
Rocky Terrain & Scrambling

Rocky Terrain & Scrambling

Upper sections of the trail

Experience some Class 2 scrambling near the top, adding an adventurous element to the hike.

InstagramReddit
Unique Gem-like Rocks

Unique Gem-like Rocks

Along the trail

Marvel at the unique, gem-like rocks scattered along the path, a fascinating geological feature.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Prepare for Bugs & Sun Exposure

Frary Peak Trail is notorious for swarms of mosquitos, gnats, and bees, especially during warmer months. There's also zero shade, so pack ample sunscreen, bug spray, and a hat. Consider a head net for maximum comfort. Reddit

Assess Your Fitness Level

This trail is a challenging 6.9-mile round trip with over 2,000 feet of elevation gain. It's steep and can be rocky, with some scrambling near the summit. Not recommended for first-time hikers. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant temps, fewer bugs
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Afternoon (with headlamp)
Why
Sunset views, cooler temps
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Frary Peak Trail is 6.9 miles round trip. Our hike was 8 miles because the road to the trailhead was closed for the season. We recorded 2,300 ft in elevation gain. Frary Peak is the highest point on Antelope Island at 6,596 feet, offering incredible views of the Great Salt Lake, snow capped Wasatch Mountains, and surrounding desert. The last section was steep and slick. Our micro spikes were hel...
wanderingdigitalnomads
102 likes • 520 views

Bug Spray is Non-Negotiable

Bring strong bug spray, a head net, and consider bug repellent for clothing. Swarms can be intense! Reddit :bug:

Hydration is Key

Carry plenty of water, at least 2-3 liters per person, and consider electrolytes. No shade means rapid dehydration. Reddit :droplet:

The person who sent you this wants to hike their favorite trail with you. Do you have a favorite trail you like to revisit? Haven’t hiked Frary Peak in 8 years and for the life of me can’t imagine why. #utahikes #naturetherapy #outdoorsadventures #forevermighty #hikemoreworryless #antelopeislandstatepark
explore.hike.teach
774 likes • 15.2K views
Beautiful views on Frary Peak Trail.
kapatnode
29 likes • 307 views

Wear Sturdy Footwear

Hiking boots or sturdy trail shoes are essential for the steep, rocky, and sometimes slippery terrain. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Check the Weather

Conditions can change rapidly. Be prepared for sun, wind, rain, or even thunderstorms. Reddit :cloudwithlightning:

Y’all!!! 🙌🏻🤠 I was looking at my website and realized I forgot to post my images from Frary Peak Trail that I did back in April!🤦🏽‍♀️ Here’s a little sample from my collection but I have more on my website. Go to get-lost-outdoors.com or click on the link in my bio and go to my photography tab! You’ll see all the fun images I took on this amazing trail that is very popular to do here in SLC! ...
getlostoutdoors2023
14 likes • 379 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bug Spray is Non-Negotiable

Bring strong bug spray, a head net, and consider bug repellent for clothing. Swarms can be intense! Reddit :bug:

Hydration is Key

Carry plenty of water, at least 2-3 liters per person, and consider electrolytes. No shade means rapid dehydration. Reddit :droplet:

Wear Sturdy Footwear

Hiking boots or sturdy trail shoes are essential for the steep, rocky, and sometimes slippery terrain. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Check the Weather

Conditions can change rapidly. Be prepared for sun, wind, rain, or even thunderstorms. Reddit :cloudwithlightning:

Consider a Headlamp

If hiking near sunset, a headlamp is crucial for a safe descent. Reddit :flashlight:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(73 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Frary Peak Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike offering stunning 360-degree views of the Great Salt Lake and surrounding mountains. Hikers praise the incredible scenery and the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit. However, be prepared for intense sun exposure, relentless insects, and a strenuous climb with some scrambling.

"Take this trail to Dooly KnobTrail, which is 2.6 miles out/back. I would consider it Moderate to Hard due to the elevation. Beautiful 360 degree views from the summit."

William McPhail

"Challenging! Steady, Steep and consistent incline on the way up with rocky trail- if you go all the way to the top. Weather exposure can and may be inconsistent. With hot sun temperatures, high winds, cold winds, rain or even thunderstorms. Come prepared with attire, bugs spray and nets is desired. There lots of bugs here. I mean lots! Head lamps too if you are heading up after 5pm. You’ll need plenty of water, maybe some electrolytes and snacks. This is a great hike with wonderful views but can be unpredictable with weather. Not for a first timer. First aid kits recommend and poles may be a great idea as well. Don’t go alone unless other hikes are around. But aside from all the precautions! This will have you feeling like you’re on top of the WORLD! Literally! Pretty cool place ."

F Rodgers

"There is plenty of parking space at this trailhead. The problem with this hike is the bugs - the mosquitos, gnats, and bees are relentless. You'll see them in swarms as you drive in, and then you'll have them around you for the duration of this 7+ mile hike. There is also no shade at all on this hike so if you have children or pets, this isn't the ideal hike for them. At a minimum, have bug spray and sunscreen, and a LOT of water. If you don't have one of those, I would suggest you do a different hike. The views are nice from the top, but if you don't make it to the top, you've more or less already seen the same view as we had from the top - I wouldn't feel bad about turning back early, if that's the case.

There is a $15 fee per car to enter this park unless you have a park pass of some sort."

Rachel Brower

What People Like

Spectacular summit views
Challenging climb
Unique rock formations

What People Dislike

Intense bugs
No shade
Steep terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Frary Peak Trail is located on Antelope Island State Park. You'll need to drive onto the island and follow signs for the trailhead. Be aware that the road to the trailhead might be closed seasonally, potentially adding mileage to your hike. TikTok

Yes, there is plenty of parking space available at the trailhead. Reddit

There is a $15 fee per car to enter Antelope Island State Park, unless you have a park pass. Reddit

The main road to the trailhead might be closed seasonally, especially in winter. Always check current park conditions before you go. TikTok

Due to the lack of shade and potential for extreme heat, it's generally not recommended for pets. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, tickets are not required for the trail itself. You pay an entrance fee per vehicle to access Antelope Island State Park. Reddit

The park is generally open from 6 AM to 10 PM daily, but it's always best to check the official Utah State Parks website for the most current hours. Reddit

The fee is for park entry, not specifically for the trail. The current fee is $15 per vehicle. Reddit

Yes, if you have a valid Utah State Parks pass, it will cover your entrance fee to Antelope Island State Park. Reddit

Information on discounts is not widely available, but it's always worth checking the official park website or inquiring at the entrance station. Reddit

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

The hike is approximately 6.9 miles round trip and can take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the summit. TikTokReddit

You can expect around 2,100 to 2,300 feet of elevation gain, making it a strenuous hike. TikTokInstagramReddit

No, there is absolutely no shade on this trail, making sun protection and hydration critical, especially during summer. InstagramReddit

The trail is steep and consistent, with rocky sections and some Class 2 scrambling near the summit. InstagramReddit

Restroom facilities are typically available at the trailhead, but it's always a good idea to confirm with park information. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The summit offers incredible 360-degree views of the Great Salt Lake and surrounding mountains. The unique rock formations along the trail are also photogenic. InstagramReddit

Sunrise and sunset provide dramatic lighting. Golden hour can make the landscape truly magical. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. Consider a telephoto lens for wildlife if you spot any. Instagram

The summit is the primary viewpoint, but keep an eye out for interesting rock formations and smaller overlooks along the way. Reddit

While you might not want to get too close, the sheer volume of insects can be a unique photographic subject if you're brave enough! Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Frary Peak Trail is generally not recommended for families with young children due to its strenuous nature, significant elevation gain, and lack of shade. InstagramReddit The steep and rocky terrain, coupled with the potential for intense sun and swarms of insects, can make for a difficult and uncomfortable experience for little ones. If you're looking for a family-friendly hike on Antelope Island, consider shorter, flatter trails like the Dooly Knob Trail or exploring the visitor center and shoreline areas. Reddit

⛰️ Experienced Hikers & Adventurers

For seasoned hikers, Frary Peak Trail offers a rewarding challenge with spectacular payoff. The consistent elevation gain and the rock scrambling near the summit provide a good workout and a sense of accomplishment. InstagramReddit The panoramic views from the top are consistently praised as some of the best in the region, making the effort worthwhile. InstagramReddit Consider tackling this hike during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for more moderate temperatures and potentially fewer bugs, though always be prepared for changing weather. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Frary Peak Trail is a dream for photographers seeking dramatic landscapes. The summit views are the main draw, offering breathtaking vistas of the Great Salt Lake and the surrounding mountain ranges, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. InstagramReddit The unique rock formations along the trail also provide interesting foreground elements for your shots. Reddit Be prepared for the elements – wind can add a dynamic feel to your photos, but also requires careful handling of equipment. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Trail and Summit

The Frary Peak Trail is a well-defined but challenging hike. The initial part of the trail is a steady, steep incline. As you get closer to the summit, the terrain becomes more rugged, with sections requiring you to use your hands for balance – this is often referred to as Class 2 scrambling. InstagramReddit Pay close attention to trail markers, especially around the 3-mile mark, as it's easy to veer off onto less passable routes. Reddit

Reaching the summit of Frary Peak, the highest point on Antelope Island at 6,596 feet, rewards you with unparalleled 360-degree views. You'll see the vast expanse of the Great Salt Lake, the distant Wasatch Mountains, and the unique desert landscape. Many hikers find the experience exhilarating, describing it as feeling 'on top of the world.' InstagramReddit Some visitors even enjoy taking in the sunset from the top, though a headlamp is essential for the descent. Reddit

Dealing with Antelope Island's Unique Wildlife

Antelope Island is known for its wildlife, and while bison are a major draw, the Frary Peak Trail experience is often dominated by its insect population. Mosquitos, gnats, and bees can be relentless, especially during warmer months. InstagramReddit Many hikers emphasize the absolute necessity of bringing potent bug spray and even considering head nets for a more comfortable hike. Reddit The sheer volume of insects can be overwhelming for some, leading them to turn back early if unprepared. Reddit

While the bugs are a significant factor, remember that Antelope Island is also home to a large herd of bison. Although sightings are not guaranteed on the trail itself, especially after events like the annual bison roundup, keeping a safe distance is paramount. Reddit The island's open landscape means you might encounter wildlife unexpectedly, so always be aware of your surroundings and respect their space. Reddit

Essential Preparations for the Hike

Given the trail's challenging nature and exposure, thorough preparation is key. Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are highly recommended due to the steep and rocky terrain. Reddit Trekking poles can also be beneficial for stability, especially on descents. Reddit

Beyond footwear, sun protection is non-negotiable. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen are essential. InstagramReddit Because there is no shade, carrying ample water (2-3 liters per person) is critical to prevent dehydration. Reddit Electrolyte drinks can also be a good addition. Reddit Finally, always check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly, and be prepared for wind, rain, or even thunderstorms. Reddit Carrying a basic first-aid kit is also a wise precaution. Reddit

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