Bear Lake

The basics

Located in scenic Bear Lake Valley, Bear Lake is Utah’s second-largest natural lake, formed by earthquakes almost 30,000 years ago. It’s known as a year-round destination, offering skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing trails in winter and swimming and jet skiing in summer—not to mention boating and fishing throughout the year. The lake ices over most winters, making it a popular spot for ice-fishing. You’ll find campsites, cozy lodges, and vacation rentals along the waterfront.

Things to know before you go

• If you want to hit the beach, head to the Idaho side of Bear Lake. North Beach is a sand beach with shallow water, making it ideal for families with children.
• If your appetite hits while you’re out on the water, keep a look out for the lemon-yellow Bear Lake Burger Boat. The floating restaurant moves up and down the beach and offers burgers and hot dogs.
• Bear Lake is a notable destination for spelunkers. Hit up the stalagmites and stalactite-filled Minnetonka Cave or Paris Ice Cave, which stays icy even in summer.
• Hikers will find challenging alpine routes that gain elevation toward scenic lookout points, while there are also easy and relaxing loops that wind through the stunning natural setting.

How to get there

The closest airports to Bear Lake are Pocatello Regional Airport or Salt Lake International Airport if you’re coming further afield. You’ll need your own transportation to reach the lake. It’s about an hour outside Ogden, Utah, and Evanston, Wyoming, two hours from Salt Lake City, Jackson Hole, and Idaho Falls, and three hours from Twin Falls. Bear Lake is also near Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park, and many travelers combine visits to all three areas.

When to get there

There are plenty of events year-round, so plan your visit accordingly. Highlights include the Raspberry Days Festival in August, which includes a pie eating contest and boat parade, and the Bear Lake Monster Winterfest, which bills itself as a combo polar bear swim and fishing festival. Anglers should check the Bear Lake spawning schedule: the Lake Trout spawns in mid-fall, while the Bear Lake Whitefish spawns at the end of February.

Grand Teton National Park

Located just a 2.5-hour drive from Bear Lake Valley, Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park is one of the best places in the United States to admire mountain scenery and wildlife. Named for their supposed resemblance to a prominent part of the female anatomy (look up “teton” in a French dictionary), the Teton range—with its iconic snow-capped peaks—contains no less than 84 mountains, not to mention wildflower-covered meadows and alpine lakes.

What is there to do at Bear Lake Utah?

There are loads of activities at Bear Lake, Utah. Swim, fish, sail, and jet-ski on the lake. You can also ride horses, snowmobiles, and ATVs, or hike on the natural trails. Stay in the lodges or camp—there are a range of options. Don’t leave without trying a famous raspberry shake.

Which beaches are in Bear Lake?

Bear Lake shares borders with Utah and Idaho, and there are several notable beaches. Garden City Park Beach, Bear Lake State Park Marina, and Rendezvous Beach all have water sports rentals and are in the southern half of the lake in Utah. North Beach, bordering Idaho, is popular.

Can you walk around Bear Lake?

Yes, you can walk around Bear Lake, or at least on trails next to the shore. There’s the Bear Lake Trail/Bear Lake Legacy Pathway, which is 4.8 miles (7.7 kilometers) long. It’s an easy and accessible trail, paved and flat so strollers, cyclists, and walkers can share the trail.

Can you swim at Bear Lake Utah?

Yes, you can swim at Bear Lake. But know that there is no lifeguard on duty, so you’ll be swimming at your own risk. The water temp is generally chilly at around 55-65°F (13-18°C) in summer. Swim with a buddy, and don't get too cold.

What’s the best time to tour Bear Lake Utah?

Visitors come to Bear Lake year-round. It depends on what activities you’d like to do. Swimmers, kayakers, hikers, and boaters come in the spring, summer, and fall. But when it gets chilly, the snow starts falling, making ideal conditions for riding snowmobiles or going ice fishing.

Is Bear Lake Utah worth visiting?

Yes, Bear Lake is worth visiting. It’s a top destination spot for visitors from Utah and Idaho and those farther afield. Come for water activities, like swimming, boating, and fishing, and also for things on land, like riding ATVs, snowmobiles, or horses, or going for a hike.