21 Things to Do at Bear Lake, Utah: Top Activities All Year!
With so many fun things to do at Bear Lake, its picturesque waters are sure to draw you in. Straddling the Utah-Idaho border and just a 2.5-hour drive northeast of Salt Lake City, it’s long been one of my go-to weekend escapes.
Known for its beautiful turquoise color, it earned the nickname “Caribbean of the Rockies.” These hues shift depending on the lighting. Imagine the sunlight breaking through the clouds and dancing across the surface, revealing the different hues. It’s stunning!
Living within a two-hour drive, I’ve spent plenty of time here and know firsthand what makes Bear Lake special: from thrilling water sports to stunning hikes, there is something for everyone. While locals have long enjoyed its serene waters, more travelers are just discovering it. If you haven’t visited yet, add it to your list. Trust me, it’s worth the trip!
21 Things To Do at Bear Lake, Utah
From relaxing sandy beaches, watersports, to hiking and exploring, Bear Lake has something for everyone! Let’s dive right in!
1. Visit the Bear Lake Beaches
Bear Lake’s beaches are its most popular attraction, and for good reason. The three most popular and well-maintained beaches are favorites for visitors of all ages. Each charges an entrance fee per vehicle and offers equipment rentals on-site.
North Shore
North Shore is my favorite beach at Bear Lake. The water here glows with that bright turquoise hue everyone raves about, and it has a gentle slope into the lake, making it perfect for not just swimming, but also wading (perfect if you’re like me and don’t know how to swim). There is a $15-25 fee per vehicle.
Note: It can get crowded, especially on weekends, and arriving early or making day-use reservations is a good idea.
Rendezvous Beach
Rendezvous Beach is on the south side of the lake, and it’s part of the Bear Lake State Park. There’s a $15-25 fee per vehicle to enter, and it’s also very popular. It has similar amenities to North Shore. It’s really beautiful, even though I personally think North Shore is a bit more stunning.
Garden City Park Beach
From the park, you can get to this small sandy public beach via a short 1/4 mile boardwalk, perfect for a quick lakeside escape. Though free and family-friendly with picnic areas and restrooms, the beach is small and great as a backup option!
2. Try Summer Water Sports on Bear Lake
When the sun’s out, there’s no better place to get out on the water. There are so many fun water sports to try at Bear Lake in the summer, depending on your skill and comfort levels!
Boating
You can rent everything from pontoon boats to full-sized houseboats. They’re perfect if you’re with family or friends and want to hang out for hours without worrying about anything else. My go-to boat rental is at Rendezvous Beach.
Jet skiing
This one is for the thrill seekers and those comfortable zipping through water (not me, not yet anyway!). The best place to rent Jet Skis is North Shore, but there are also rentals at Rendezvous Beach and the Bear Lake Marina in Garden City.
Swimming or wading
This might sound obvious, but swimming at Bear Lake is one of my favorite things to do. The water can be cold, but summer temperatures can get above 90°F (32°F), so it’s quite refreshing! If you’re afraid of deep water like me, just stick to the shallow areas near shore where it’s calm and safe.
Paddleboarding and Kayaking
Stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking are popular activities at Bear Lake. offering a unique perspective. Just be aware of the weather; a calm start can turn choppy fast if winds pick up. This happened during my first time kayaking at Bear Lake, and a wave nearly flipped me over. Needless to say, I got out of the water fast!
3. Don’t shy away from renting equipment
I don’t own my own watercraft (not even a kayak), so renting is worth the cost for me! You’ll find rental companies at North Shore, Rendezvous Beach, and the Bear Lake Marina in Garden City.
Pro Tip: I usually rent kayaks from North Shore and boats from Rendezvous Beach and found the rentals to be reliable, easy to use, and well-priced.
Some shops even offer fun extras like inflatable tubes, floaties, bounce houses, and wakeboards, which add some extra enjoyment to your time on the lake.
4. Try Famous Raspberry Shakes
Now, let me be honest, I didn’t visit Bear Lake until I was 21 (in 2014), but one of the first things I had to do was try a raspberry shake. And yes, they live up to the hype! They’re thick and sweet, and perfect for those hot summer days!
The best place I’ve found is in Garden City, in a little restaurant called LaBeau’s Too. It’s one of the original restaurants in town. It’s not flashy, but it has amazing food, including these famous shakes that people come from miles away to get.
So yes, do yourself a favor and try one of these shakes. I promise you won’t regret it.
Also, expect a long line, I have never seen this place not busy!
5. Visit During Raspberry Days
The Raspberry Days celebration marks the harvest of world-famous Bear Lake raspberries and is usually held in early August (August 6 to 8 in 2026). It’s a big deal around here: live music, food trucks, kids’ games, and every raspberry food item you can think of!
The festival is a great time to visit Bear Lake because everything feels more alive. Locals come out, vendors set up stalls, there’s a parade, and the energy is just great! Plus, you get the perfect excuse for eating all things raspberry!
6. Go Hiking Near Bear Lake
While Bear Lake is known for water activities, don’t overlook the amazing hiking trails in the area. One standout is the Bloomington Lake Trail. It’s short, scenic, and family-friendly. The reward is a breathtaking emerald green lake with lush green mountain slopes, and a striking cliff face that emerges out of the water! It’s truly incredible.
On the same road, you’ll find the North Fork Trail, which takes a bit more time, but it’s definitely worth the solitude!
For a paved walking path, check out the Bear Trail, which starts near the Bear Lake State Park Marina, perfect for biking and an evening stroll.
Just a short drive up from Garden City towards Logan Canyon is the Limber Pine trail, which is a short nature walk that doubles as a sort of scavenger hunt! Along the way, there are multiple signs with facts about different trees that you have to put some effort into spotting. It’s perfect for the whole family!
7. Explore Logan Canyon
Logan Canyon is a must-do day trip, and you’ll be driving through Logan Canyon to get to Bear Lake. It’s a stunning 45-mile drive that takes about an hour to drive (one way) from Garden City to Logan. The canyon offers a variety of landscapes, from flat-topped plateaus and forested hills that look different than anything else in the Wasatch Mountains.
Hikes in Logan Canyon:
I like starting with the Tony Grove area and walking the short, flat 1-mile loop around the stunning alpine lake of the same name. From here, there are more advanced hikes, including White Pine Lake and Naomi Peak, both stunning day hikes that take 4-5 hours each.
You can also hike to the famous Wind Caves, which are super unique and close to Logan. The Crimson Trail is a great alternative if you prefer fewer crowds.
Lastly, you can check out Beaver Mountain Resort in Logan Canyon, which is open for year-round fun! Check out their summer hiking trails or camping areas!
Stops in Logan Canyon:
There are numerous stops and picnic sites scattered throughout the canyon! Check out the Bear Lake Overlook, the Hobbit Caves, and the Second Dam picnic area.
Hidden Gem: Don’t miss Rick’s Spring! A short walk from a small parking lot reveals a breathtaking blue spring. It doesn’t look like much from the road, but trust me, it’s worth the stop
Check out my favorite hikes near Bear Lake!
8. Explore some unique Caves
About 45 minutes north of Garden City, on the same road as Bloomington Lake, is Minnetonka Cave, which is a very unique attraction! You can only visit with a guided tour, which adds to the experience, giving you deeper insights into its history.
The cave sees over 20,000 visitors every year, and for good reason: it’s filled with stunning formations like stalactites, stalagmites, and travertine. You’ll explore at least nine chambers, some with glowing mineral lines on the walls that look like ancient art.
I’ve also heard about the nearby Paris Ice Cave, though I haven’t checked it out yet; it’s just off the road and open without needing a tour.
9 . Discover Fossils
This may be one of the most unique things to do near Bear Lake! Visit this summer dig site an hour east of Garden City, which is run by American Fossil. With a pre-booked tour, you can uncover ancient remains of crocodiles and stingrays from millions of years ago. A unique find for history and science lovers alike!
10. Take a Scenic Drive Around the Lake
One of my favorite ways to enjoy Bear Lake is driving around it. What’s amazing is how different each side feels: the west shore is greener and more forested due to orographic lift, while the north shines with bright water and lively beach activity.
By the time you reach the east, it’s drier, thanks to the rain shadow, but in late May, wildflowers paint the hillsides in vibrant colors. Then, the south side brings you back to the action, where beaches buzz with life again.
I’ve driven this loop many times and never get tired of it. It’s perfect for cruising with music, stopping whenever something catches my eye, like a great photo spot.
11. Explore Garden City
Garden City might seem small, but it’s really the heart of Bear Lake tourism. It’s where most people stay, eat, and plan their days.
There are plenty of restaurants, from crepes to burgers and shakes, along with shops selling souvenirs and cold drinks if you’re feeling hot. Crepes and Coffee is open year-round and is my go-to spot for, well, coffee and crepes! LaBeau’s Too is a great spot for burgers and the famous raspberry shakes!
12. Watch the Sunset Over Bear Lake
Sunsets at Bear Lake are something special, especially on summer evenings when the air is cool and crisp. The best view? Head to the east side to one of the campgrounds or the Sage Springs Day Use Area and find a spot with an open view of the water
Bring a blanket or a lawn chair, along with a refreshing beverage, and watch in amazement as the sun dips behind the mountains. Watch the sky burst into pinks and oranges that reflect on the lake.
Or, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, take your paddleboard or kayak out on the water to watch from the water. You’ll likely have the whole lake to yourself, no crowds, no noise, just quiet beauty and stillness.
13. Go Camping Near Bear Lake
Camping at Bear Lake is one of the best ways to experience it fully, and yes, I’ve done my fair share of nights under the stars here. I prefer the campgrounds on the east side, which are usually much quieter west side.
The downside? There’s not a lot of shade, so bring a pop-up canopy for the daytime, but the summer nights are something else here!
There are also many campgrounds in Logan Canyon, with Sunrise Campground near the Bear Lake overlook being the most convenient. Additionally, on the west side, there are a few, including a KOA near Garden City.
14. Go Fishing
Fishing around Bear Lake is actually pretty good. I’ve seen people pull out decent-sized trout in spots near the shoreline. The lake has rainbow and cutthroat trout stocked regularly, so even if you’re not a pro angler, it’s still worth casting a line.
The only thing to keep in mind is that fishing regulations change every year, so always check what’s allowed before you drop a line, and avoid fishing on beaches where people swim.
15. Seek thrills at Bear Lake Adventure Park
Formerly Bridgerland Adventure Park, this family-friendly attraction has been acquired by new owners who plan to upgrade existing infrastructure and refocus on outdoor adventures like ziplines and aerial obstacle courses.
I haven’t visited yet, but photos and reviews make it look ideal for kids or anyone looking for excitement without leaving the area. More details will come as the park reopens in summer 2026, though if it’s anything like other local spots, I know it’ll be worth a visit.
16. Go on a bike ride
If you know me, you know I am a sucker for a good biking trail! This paved path starts just north of Garden City.
It runs along the western side of the lake, but unfortunately, the path stops just before the road begins to hug the shoreline. I hope one day they extend this trail, but you can continue biking on the road. I often see cyclists circling the entire lake!
Regardless, I still enjoy this path, and it makes for a great morning bike ride before it gets crowded. And don’t worry if you don’t have your own bike, there is a great rental place in town where you can grab one for the day.
Best Winter Things To Do At Bear Lake
Winter brings a much quieter hush. The Logan Canyon road is open year-round to Garden City, which transforms into a winter sports mecca! Here are a few things locals love to do in Winter.
17. Go Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling is a popular winter activity near Bear Lake, where over 350 miles of trails wind through Logan Canyon and the surrounding mountains, perfect for adventure seekers.
In this winter wonderland, you may spot frozen waterfalls, elk, or even moose, while under a bright blue sky. With no crowds, no fences, and vast open terrain, it’s ideal for riders seeking adventure at every turn. Open from late November through April, the area offers trails suited to all skill levels, making it a true winter playground.
Rent your snowmobile at Epic Recreation in the Bear Lake Adventure Center for a self-guided adventure. For beginners, join an expert-led backcountry tour with Beaver Creek Lodge to discover Utah’s best-kept winter secrets.
18. Try Ice fishing
Picture this: crystal-clear ice under your boots, snow-covered peaks around you, and the quiet thrill of catching fish beneath a frozen lake. That’s Ice Fishing at Bear Lake! With freezing conditions occurring about seven out of ten years, the season typically runs from late December to early March.
Cisco Beach, Rainbow Cove on the east shore, and artificial rock piles north of the marina are prime for catching Bonneville Cisco (a local favorite). Events like the Bear Lake Monster Winterfest are great for beginners, family-friendly, and fun, with guided tours and community charm.
You only need one fishing license (Utah or Idaho). Always check ice thickness (at least 4” of clear ice) and consider hiring a local guide for expert access to hidden hotspots. Whether you’re casting your line solo or joining the crowd, this is winter magic at its best.
19. Snowshoeing
Have you ever wondered what some of your favorite summer hikes would look like under a blanket of fresh snow? If so, snowshoeing is calling your name! Generally, snowshoes are only required when the snow hasn’t been packed down, usually after a fresh snowstorm or in lesser-traveled areas.
For a peaceful escape, explore scenic trails near Beaver Mountain and Logan Canyon, where quiet paths offer stunning winter views. If you’re looking for a challenge, don’t miss the Swan Flat Trail, one of the top backcountry routes ideal for those craving adventure!
Grab your gear this weekend and discover how much fun snowshoeing can be!
20. Winter hiking
Discover a whole other world in winter, when the landscape is blanketed in white! Just remember: once the snow packs down, microspikes become essential for safe hiking.
Several of the top summer trails transform into winter wonders, perfect for a peaceful escape. Check out:
- The Bear Trail and Limber Pine Trails near Garden City
- Wind Caves and Crimson Trails near Logan
- The scenic Riverside Nature Trail in Logan Canyon
These routes offer incredible views, ideal for a weekend adventure. Before you head out, always check avalanche conditions. I also like to read the latest AllTrails reviews. Knowing whether to pack snowshoes or microspikes can make all the difference.
21. Skiing
Skiing near Bear Lake is a must-do winter activity, with Beaver Mountain Resort being the top choice. Located in Logan Canyon, just a short drive from Garden City, this local favorite offers 828 acres of terrain for all ability levels. It gets consistent snowfall and is usually open from early December through late March.
Bear Lake is also surrounded by miles of backcountry, for those with a more adventurous heart!
Perfect Weekend Bear Lake Itinerary
Here’s what a perfect weekend at Bear Lake looks like: packed with adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable views:
Day 1
- Morning: Start early from Salt Lake City (about a 2.5-hour drive) and stop for breakfast in Garden City, where you’ll find cozy cafes and great coffee to kick off the day.
- Afternoon: Spend the mid-day soaking up the sun on one of Bear Lake’s beaches or try a water activity! Afterwards, circle to the East side of the lake.
- Evening: End the day with a peaceful sunset view over the water on the east shore. Return to Garden City for dinner.
Day 2
- Morning: Get breakfast in Garden City, then hike Bloomington Lake.
- Afternoon: After a lunch break, take the drive through the breathtaking Logan Canyon, stopping at Tony Grove Lake for a quick walk around the stunning lake.
- Evening: Wrap up your trip with dinner in Logan, then make the return drive to Salt Lake City, already dreaming of your next visit.
Tips For Visiting Bear Lake, Utah
Here are some curated tips to help your Bear Lake trip go smoothly, from what to pack, how to get there, and where to stay.
What to pack
In the summer:
- Pack layers: you’ll need light clothing for summer days and warm clothes for chilly mornings and evenings. Swimwear for lake days
- Hiking Gear: Hiking shoes, trekking poles, sunscreen, bug spray, and a reusable water bottle.
In the winter:
- wear snow boots, gloves, and a hat.
- Wear thermal layers
How to get there
From Salt Lake City:
- Head north along I-15
- Take exit 362 in Brigham City toward US-89
- Take US-89 to Logan, turn right onto 400 N (which is still US-89)
- Continue on US-89 through Logan Canyon to Garden City
Where to stay at Bear Lake, Utah
Bear Lake’s charm lies partly in its cozy mix of accommodations, from modern hotels to rustic cabins, and with good reason: cabin stays are the real star here. They add that perfect mountain escape vibe, making every visit feel like an adventure away from it all.
Small Groups – Budget-friendly
The Ironhorse Inn at Garden City offers cozy, pet-friendly, two-story cabins perfect for small groups of up to four. With walking access to restaurants and a compact kitchenette, it’s ideal for exploring Bear Lake, hiking, or enjoying local bites. A convenient and comfortable base for your weekend getaway.
Medium Groups – Budget-friendly
This Bear Lake Mountain Cabin is on my wishlist, offering stunning lake views from a private balcony, 4 bedrooms, and plenty of space for families or groups. With a full kitchen, cozy living area, and easy access to outdoor adventures, it’s the perfect base for a relaxing escape into nature. 🌄🏡
Large Groups – Luxury option
Overlooking the stunning turquoise waters of Bear Lake, The Mine at Bear Lake is a spacious, family-friendly cabin designed for large group getaways. With so many bedrooms, big living areas, a game room, and a private hot tub, the home offers plenty of space to relax after a long day of adventure! I mean, the view alone is worth the price of admission!🌄🏡
FAQs
Check out some of the most commonly asked questions before planning your trip to Bear Lake.
Why Bear Lake is Called the Caribbean of the Rockies
Bear Lake earned the nickname “Caribbean of the Rockies” due to its striking turquoise waters, reminiscent of tropical lagoons, contrasted beautifully against the mountainous backdrop.
This unique color comes from calcium carbonate in Logan Canyon’s limestone rock, washed into the lake when it rains. This mineral reflects the sunlight in shifting hues depending on the lighting. Locals often joke that the lake changes “moods” throughout the day.
What is the best month to go to Bear Lake?
The best time to visit Bear Lake is June through September, when the weather is warm, trails are clear, and wildflowers bloom. For winter lovers, December to February offers great snowmobiling, ice fishing, and snowy mountain views, though some roads may be closed due to snow (such as Bloomington Lake and Tony Grove).
What is Bear Lake known for?
Bear Lake is best known for its stunningly clear turquoise waters, scenic beauty, and a wide range of year-round outdoor activities: from swimming and boating in summer to skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing in winter. It’s also famous for the annual Raspberry Days festival held in early August.
Is Bear Lake worth visiting?
Absolutely! Whether you’re into nature, adventure, or just a relaxed mountain escape, Bear Lake offers something for everyone! With its unique beauty and diverse activities, it’s one of the most underrated gems in Utah, and well worth a trip.
The Wrap Up: Things To Do At Bear Lake
If Bear Lake wasn’t on your Northern Utah list before, I encourage you to add it in! While Utah is known for the Great Salt Lake and Lake Powell, Bear Lake is often forgotten. I like to think of it as the “Lake Tahoe of Utah”, with its blue waters, mountain views, and year-round adventure.
Whether you’re kayaking at dawn, hiking through alpine forests, or soaking in golden sunset hues, each moment here adds to the magic. Pack your bags: Bear Lake awaits you. You’re going to love it!
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Disclaimers:
Conditions in the outdoors can, and frequently do, change. Like life, danger may lurk around any corner. This information is provided free of any warranty or liability. Be careful, be prepared, and use good judgment. Perceived difficulty is based on my personal experience mixed with AllTrails data, and your experience may differ from mine.
I strive to keep this blog current, but I recommend confirming prices, hours, details, closures, conditions, etc, on official websites before you visit. I share my personal experiences, which may differ from your own.
