We recently spent the week at Bear Lake with my side of the family. It had been several years since the last time we went there. I had forgotten just how much fun that area is to visit! I thought I would share our favorite things to do at Bear Lake and the surrounding area.
Things To Do At Bear Lake
Bear Lake sits on the border of Utah and Idaho. It is roughly 20 miles long. We were traveling from central Utah and drove through the beautiful Logan canyon to get there. We usually go in August, but this time we went in early June. There were wildflowers in bloom everywhere and the water was surprisingly warm.
Play In The Lake!
Whether you end up boating, paddle boarding, jet skiing or swimming, the lake is THE place to be. The water is turquoise and if often referred to as the Caribbean of the Rockies. The lake is shallow for quite a ways out which makes it perfect for kids to play and wade out in. Because of the lower water level, it also warms up faster too.
We have rented water craft in the past but chose to just paddleboard and swim this time.
In some places, you can just drive right up on the beach. We mostly played at the north beach.
An unexpected perk of going at the beginning of summer, was there were a lot less people. At certain times of the day we had a huge section of the beach all to ourselves. This is the first year they are implementing a reservation system at the north beach. Make sure to hop online before you visit and reserve a parking spot.
Adventure Park
Overlooking the lake, up on a hill, sits Bridgerland Adventure Park. The prices were very reasonable.
Since we had all week, it was kind of nice to break up days at the beach with a morning at the park. Check out my video for a tour and a list of all the activities!
Minnetonka Cave
Minnetonka cave is a short drive from the lake. There is a small entrance fee but it is well worth the cost. A tour guide will take you through the cave and it will take about an hour.
All of the stalagmite and stalactite formations were so cool! I have some great footage in the video below.
Raspberry Days
Garden City (a town right on the lake) is known for their raspberry days celebration each August.
Even if you don't visit the week of raspberry days, you can enjoy raspberry treats all summer long! Shake are our favorites. I didn't get a pic this trip, so enjoy this one from years ago. My boys were so little!
Camping
There are a plethora of AirBnb and Vrbo listings in the towns surrounding the lake, but if you want, there are also camping options. We have camped in a beautiful group site on the south shore with Shane's side of the family. I grew up camping at Bear Lake every year with my cousins. It is also a great way to enjoy time at the lake.
Please take the time to check out my video about visiting Bear Lake. It has more info and links to plan your visit!
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I wish you would have included what state this was in!!! I'm from Big Bear Lake in California, often referred to as Bear Lake. I read all through your experience thinking it might be MY Bear Lake. No where do you say where this is! I didn't recognize one location. It sure would have helped. Sorry!
Sorry for the confusion! I did mention it in the second paragraph and in the intro to the video. I know there are several "bear lakes" in the US. Your Beal Lake is also on my bucket list!
Wow that was so much water. Beautiful place. Entertainment park with fair prices so that means usually the prices are high? Haven't been to states but keeping in mind if I travel there. Thanks for sharing these. Xx
Isa A.