Why is Bear Lake called Bear Lake?

Bear Lake, with its turquoise waters and alpine surroundings, is a beloved natural treasure on the border of Utah and Idaho. While many visitors are captivated by its beauty and recreational offerings, a common question often arises: Why is it called Bear Lake?

The story behind the name stretches back to the early 19th century and provides insight into the lake’s wild past, early exploration, and natural environment. In this article, we’ll explore the historical and ecological roots of Bear Lake’s name—and what makes it fitting even today.

The First Recorded Name: Black Bear Lake

The earliest known European to visit the area was Donald Mackenzie, a Scottish-Canadian trapper and explorer employed by the North West Company. In 1818, during one of his expeditions through the Rocky Mountains in search of beaver pelts, Mackenzie came upon the lake nestled between what we now know as the Wasatch Range and the Bear River Range.

According to historical accounts, Mackenzie named the body of water “Black Bear Lake” after witnessing a large number of black bears in the area. Bears were abundant at the time, especially along the forested slopes surrounding the lake and in the Bear Lake Valley, which offered rich feeding grounds and natural cover.

Over time, the name was shortened from “Black Bear Lake” to simply Bear Lake, which is how we know it today.

Bears in the Region: A Natural Connection

The name wasn’t just a spur-of-the-moment decision—it was a reflection of the lake’s ecosystem. During the 1800s, both black bears and grizzly bears roamed the northern Utah and southeastern Idaho wilderness. The dense forests, rivers, and meadows surrounding the lake provided ideal habitat for these large mammals.

Bears were commonly seen by Indigenous peoples, trappers, and early settlers. They were not only a part of the environment but also significant in hunting and trade. Fur trappers often sought out bear pelts along with beaver, otter, and mink, which were valuable in the international fur trade.

Although grizzly bears are no longer found in the region today and black bear sightings are far less common, the lake’s name serves as a reminder of its wild past and the untamed nature that once defined it.

Indigenous Perspectives and the Natural Landscape

Before trappers like Mackenzie arrived, the Shoshone people and other Indigenous tribes had long called the Bear Lake Valley home. The lake was known by various Native American names that reflected its sacredness and natural beauty, though there is no evidence that Indigenous peoples specifically used the name "Bear Lake."

However, bears held symbolic meaning in many tribal cultures, often representing strength, protection, and introspection. Their presence in the region was well known and respected. The area was rich in wildlife and natural resources, which Indigenous communities relied on seasonally for hunting, fishing, and gathering.

Bear Lake’s Name in Modern Identity

The name "Bear Lake" has become more than a geographical label—it is now central to the region’s identity. The name appears in everything from Bear Lake State Park (in both Utah and Idaho) to Bear Lake County in Idaho and countless local businesses, events, and products.

One of the most popular festivals in the region, Bear Lake Raspberry Days, combines the lake’s historical name with its agricultural heritage. This annual event draws visitors from across the West to enjoy fresh raspberries, lake activities, and mountain scenery.

Even the image of the bear is used in regional branding and tourism—appearing on signs, park brochures, souvenirs, and public art, connecting the past to the present.

A Name That Reflects Wilderness and Wonder

In the end, Bear Lake owes its name to both its natural inhabitants and the early explorers who recognized the area's untamed character. Donald Mackenzie’s encounter with the lake and its bears left a lasting impression—so much so that his simple name choice has echoed across centuries.

Though bears are now a rare sight around the lake, the spirit of wilderness they represent lives on in the lake’s pristine waters, rugged landscape, and the stories passed down through generations.

Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Name

Bear Lake’s name is a window into its early history—a time when fur trappers ventured into unknown terrain and when wildlife ruled the land. Today, the name stands as a tribute to the region’s natural heritage, its wild roots, and the deep connection between landscape and identity.

So, the next time you visit this jewel-toned lake in the Rockies, remember: the name Bear Lake isn’t just a title—it’s a legacy.