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On a short side-trip from the middle of the White Rock Bay loop, climb up to the ridgeline, where a rolling single-track takes you to Elephant Head with its spectacular view of Split Rock Bay. The mountainous south end of the island (seen on the left of this picture) is mostly volcanic rock, while the north end is sedimentary rock such as Tufa, a conglomerate laid down by prehistoric Lake Bonneville. The Lakeside Trail is another excellent ride; 3 miles of curving single-track beginning at the camping area at Bridger Bay on the far north end of the island. The middle mile of the ride is insanely rocky and rates an "expert" in technical difficulty, but you can easily hike through the areas that make you nervous. You can ride the trail back, or head overland by dirt road. (Or, you can zip 1/2 mile down to the White Rock Bay trail!) There are overnight camping spots and picnic tables, and nice swimming beaches with bathrooms and shaded picnic areas. The visitor's center can sell you a Coke or a T-shirt, or teach you about the history and geology of the island. Information provided by utahmountainbiking.com.
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Antelope Island, in the middle of the Great Salt Lake, can be biked virtually year round. Early spring and late fall are best. In summer, ride the day after a rain storm -- the rain hardens the loose debris kicked up by horses on the trails. The second picture above is of a view near the beginning of the 9.2-mile White Rock Bay loop, looking west.
