Hike of the week: Frary Peak Trail — Antelope Island State Park, Davis County

For the first half-mile the trail gives you a workout as you climb the mountainside. There is one long switchback traversing over to the ridge. As the switchback ends, the trail turns southwest to Dooley Knob junction. At .79 miles you arrive at the junction. Go left toward Frary Peak. The trail goes up to the lower ridge and smooths out along the mountainside heading southwest. The mountain casts cool shadows over the trail for relief from the sun. Most of the trail is exposed, except around the peak where junipers give shade. As you leave this flat area, the trail goes between boulders and starts a series of quick-turn switchbacks up the side of the mountain. At 1.4 miles you leave the switchbacks and the trail turns east across the grassy hillside. When you are able to view the east side of the Great Salt Lake, the trail turns southwest and snakes up to the top ridge before the peak. You reach the ridgeline spine at 2.98 miles with a beautiful view overlooking Stansbury Island to the west. From the spine, Frary Peak looms above as the trail drops along its steep side. Once the trail starts climbing again, there are treacherous trail stairs leading you to the top. Where in Utah can you be surrounded by water with a spectacular view? Frary Peak!

Directions: From I-15, take Exit 332 at Syracuse. Go west on Antelope Drive to the causeway. After the causeway, turn left and watch for the sign to Frary Peak. The trail closes at 6 p.m.

Destination: Peak

Difficulty: Moderate/difficult*

Round trip: 6.8 miles

Hiking time: 4 to 5 hours

Elevation gain: 2,070 ft.

Trailhead restrooms: No

Dogs allowed: No

Entrance fee: $9

*Trail is difficult from the ridgeline to the peak.