Bear Lake

Bear Lake's beautiful turquoise waters have attracted eyes for centuries. Straddling the border between Utah and Idaho, this large lake is enjoyed year-round by lovers of the outdoors. Whether you like fishing, skiing, sailboating, camping, bird watching, cave exploring, or just relaxing, there's something for you near the shores of Bear Lake.

With over 6.5 million acre feet of surface area, there's plenty of room at Bear Lake for everybody. The lake's visitors come here for a myriad of reasons: to enjoy the lake's natural beauty, to sample the famous raspberries that grow nearby, or to visit local museums and attractions celebrating the life of the early residents of this area. Bear Lake is easily accessible from Utah, Idaho, or Wyoming. View Area Map

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Activities

Fishing is great at Bear Lake, a renowned fishing destination. Cutthroat trout, mackinaw, and several species unique to Bear Lake can be caught, and record-breakers of 30 lbs. and up have been pulled from these waters. Trolling and jigging from boats is popular year-round, with winter and spring being the most productive seasons.

Boating the lake is fun and uncrowded, since the lake offers 150 square miles of area for all types of craft. Personal watercraft, powerboats, sailboats, fishing boats, and more are all welcome.

Swimming is allowed off the lake's many sandy beaches. Water temperature in mid-summer is a refreshing 65 degrees.

Hiking or Biking the canyons around the lake opens up peaceful new vistas and provides access to secluded areas. Mild temperatures and changing colors make for inviting trails at many levels of difficulty.

Horseback Riding in Logan Canyon and other nearby areas is another great way to experience the forested countryside around the lake.

Camping at Bear Lake is popular and accessible: over 500 campgrounds are available around its shores. From primitive tent sites to areas with showers and full RV hookups, you'll find a site to match your needs.

Snowmobiling during winter months is a joy, with over 350 miles of groomed trails and wide open play areas with no crowds. The variety of terrain and spectacular scenery offers snowmobilers of all ability levels the chance to find challenges and fun.

Bird Watching at the Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge on the north shore of the lake can be immensely satisfying. Thousands of birds pass through these 18,000 acres of marshland and grassland each year, including sandhill cranes, white pelicans, and white-faced ibis.

Skiing and Cross-Country Skiing opportunities abound at Bear Lake. Beaver Mountain Ski Resort just 10 miles west of Garden City offers fabulous powder for downhill skiers, and an extensive network of trails are magical to explore on cross-country skis.

Cities and Towns

Garden City, Utah is a lakeside community on the southwestern shore, with lodging and dining venues for visitors.

Montpelier, Idaho offers access to the north side of the lake, with amenities and a hospital.

Logan, Utah is the gateway to the south end of Bear Lake, with a number of outfitters and rental agencies catering to travelers and residents. A good-sized town, Logan offers numerous lodging and dining options.

For more information on any of the topics above or anything else that the Bear Lake area has to offer, be sure to

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