Jan 26 - Gravel Pit/Beacon Hill (Antelope Island)

 Cloudy morning with sun coming out later in the day with temps in the 40s is the forecast. It's cloudy and 36 degrees when I leave my house heading to Antelope Island this morning. And it's a hiking day today!! We've had warmer temps, no sun, and rain so most of the snow should be melted.

I arrive on the causeway and there's a lot of water around because of the still ice and the melted snow. Lovely to see all that wet.

A few hawks cruising along the causeway and I find 2 Bald Eagles on the ice in different locations. 

I was wondering if they'd still be around with the warming temps and melting ice. And a couple are!!

On the Island there are at least a couple of bison directly behind the Visitor's Center.

Across from Frary Peak, I see a large hawk

and a Porcupine.

After the potty, I spot a little herd of bison in the distance and as I roll up to take a photo I'm surprised to find the larger part of the herd literally right in front of my nose not far from the road. I guess that's what happens when you get so focused in the distance.

I arrive at the Ranch and there is still bison just south of the Ranch. Sentry Peak would doable today but I'd have to walk past them.

But that's not plan; the plan is the Gravel Pit so I turn around and start heading north.

On the way back, I see a small herd of bison up near the mountains and another large hawk.

After a stop at the potty as I was heading for the exit, there's a Kestrel staring at me perched on a road sign. So close but so far as he flies as I approach. Should have paid attention before getting into my car - oh well.

Soon I'm at the Gravel Pit; only me this morning.

It's still cloudy but I know there's blue sky to the west just hoping I'll see it.

I start up the trail. Its mostly clear with patches of snow that I go around.

Soon I'm on the ridge and I don't see any bison - but a few around the White Rock campground.

I start up the trail; just a quiet morning.

I reach Beacon Hill and start up. I quickly notice a bison herd (just little dots) down in the White Rock meadow - so far away!

I continue until the end of the trail. It's so pretty out!!!

After a brief rest, it's time to head. On my way down Beacon Hill, I notice a small bison herd just above the White Rock trail's inner loop. Glad I didn't take that trail this morning!!

Soon I'm back at my car and then head east along the causeway. The Bald Eagle are gone BUT I notice a coyote on the north side of the causeway. Holy cow! He's walking thru the water!! So very cool!! It's a first for me!!




I also see another Kestrel perched on signage along the road.

Awesome day!

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