Things to do in Bear Lake

Things to do in Bear Lake: A Complete Guide to Year-Round Adventures

Set on the border of Utah and Idaho, Bear Lake is a stunning high-altitude lake known for its striking turquoise-blue water and endless outdoor recreation. Whether you're basking in the summer sun or exploring the frosty wonderland of winter, Bear Lake offers a rich variety of experiences for every season.

Here’s an expanded guide to Things to do in Bear Lake—with extra details to help you plan the ultimate getaway.

Summer Activities

1. Boating and Water Sports

The expansive size of Bear Lake—spanning over 109 square miles—makes it an ideal destination for all types of water sports. Boating, jet skiing, wakeboarding, sailing, and kayaking are all popular, and rental shops in Garden City and along the shoreline make it easy to access gear and equipment. The Bear Lake State Park Marina is a central hub for launching and renting watercraft.

2. Fishing

Bear Lake is a dream for anglers thanks to its unique fish species. It’s home to Bonneville cisco, Bear Lake whitefish, Bonneville whitefish, cutthroat trout, and lake trout. Fishing is productive both from the shore and from boats. The Cisco run in January draws winter anglers, while summer offers warm-weather serenity and ample catches.

3. Swimming

The lake's famous turquoise waters—caused by suspended calcium carbonate—are incredibly inviting for swimmers. North Beach State Park in Idaho is ideal for families, thanks to its wide shoreline and shallow gradient. On the Utah side, Rendezvous Beach offers warm sand, calm waves, and picnic-friendly spaces.

4. Hiking and Biking

Bear Lake is surrounded by beautiful trails that wind through forests, meadows, and along ridgelines with lake views. The Limber Pine Trail near Logan Canyon is a family-friendly favorite, while the Sink Hollow Trail offers more of a challenge. Mountain biking is also gaining popularity on trails near the east side of the lake.

5. Camping

Several scenic campgrounds encircle Bear Lake. Bear Lake State Park offers camping on both the Utah and Idaho sides, with facilities for tents, RVs, and group sites. Rendezvous Beach Campground, North Beach Campground, and more rustic, dispersed sites in nearby national forests give campers a wide range of choices.

6. Wildlife Viewing and Bird Watching

The wetlands, forests, and meadows around Bear Lake support a wide variety of wildlife. It’s common to spot deer, moose, foxes, and an impressive list of migratory birds, especially in spring and early summer. Birders can look for sandhill cranes, white pelicans, ospreys, and herons around the lake’s edges and marshes.

Winter Activities

7. Snowmobiling

When the snow falls, Bear Lake transforms into a playground for snowmobilers. With access to hundreds of miles of groomed trails through surrounding forests and hills, it's a premier winter destination for thrill-seekers. The Sinks Area and Franklin Basin near Logan Canyon are especially popular among experienced riders.

8. Ice Fishing

Bear Lake is one of the few places in the world where anglers can catch Bonneville cisco, and the January spawning season draws large numbers of ice fishers. Thick ice makes it safe for drilling and setting up tents, and the lake’s clarity helps with visibility even in cold months.

9. Skiing and Snowboarding

While Bear Lake itself doesn’t have major ski resorts, it is close to excellent skiing and snowboarding areas. The Beaver Mountain Ski Resort is just a short drive away in Logan Canyon, offering family-friendly slopes and cozy amenities for winter sport lovers.

Year-Round Activities

10. Scenic Drives

The drive around Bear Lake offers jaw-dropping views of blue water against mountainous backdrops. One of the most popular routes is the Logan Canyon Scenic Byway (US-89), which runs between Logan and Garden City. This winding road offers stunning overlooks, hiking access, and picnic spots.

11. Local Festivals and Events

The highlight of Bear Lake’s cultural calendar is Raspberry Days, held each August in Garden City, Utah. This beloved event celebrates the region’s raspberry harvest with parades, craft booths, live music, and the iconic raspberry shakes. The festival draws thousands of visitors and gives a lively taste of local life.

12. Historic Sites and Museums

To better understand the region’s past, visit the Bear Lake State Park Visitor Center, which showcases exhibits on the area’s geology, wildlife, and history. Just north in Montpelier, Idaho, the National Oregon/California Trail Center offers interactive exhibits about the pioneers who passed through the region on their journey west.

13. Dining and Shopping

Garden City is the heart of Bear Lake tourism and is known for its charming local businesses. Raspberry shakes from LeBeau’s, Quick-N-Tasty, or Zipz are a must. You’ll also find a variety of lakeside eateries serving burgers, pizza, trout dishes, and more. Small gift shops and outfitters line the main streets, offering souvenirs, outdoor gear, and regional specialties.

Bonus: Unique Bear Lake Experiences

14. The Bear Lake Monster

According to local legend, Bear Lake is home to a mysterious creature known as the Bear Lake Monster. Stories of a serpent-like creature date back to Native American oral traditions and were written about by 19th-century pioneers. While sightings are rare, the legend adds a layer of fun for curious visitors—especially kids!

15. Minnetonka Cave

Located in St. Charles Canyon, Idaho, just a short drive from the lake, Minnetonka Cave is a fascinating natural attraction open in summer. Guided tours lead visitors through cool, dark chambers filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and limestone formations—an excellent activity on hot days or for families.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re sunbathing on a beach, snowmobiling through the forest, fishing for rare native species, or just enjoying a sunset drive around the lake, Bear Lake offers something magical in every season. It’s a destination where relaxation, recreation, and natural beauty converge, making it perfect for families, adventurers, and nature lovers alike.