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Tourists often pack the picturesque, sandy beaches of Bear Lake in the summer, but just north lies a natural treasure. Located near the border between Utah and Southeast Idaho, Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge offers adventures for every speed.

Whether you want to lounge by the water, cast a line, or hit the trails, this wild refuge offers plenty of action. Bear Lake Luxury Rentals will provide the perfect base for your visit. With vacation homes in three towns around the lake, you’ll never be far from the Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

About the Bear Lake Wildlife Refuge

Bear Lake Wildlife Refuge comprises 18,000 acres of protected land just north of Bear Lake and includes the Dingle Swamp and Mud Lake. If you look to Google Maps for directions, you’ll be directed to Downtown Montpelier, but the refuge actually consists of  the land just south of town.

Although the refuge does not technically contain Bear Lake proper, it is intimately intertwined with it’s infrastructure and ecosystem.

The refuge was established in 1968 to protect the native species of flora and fauna and the accompanying valuable habitats for waterfowl and colonial nesting birds. Characterized by cattail marsh, open water, brush-covered slopes, and meadows, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manages this area to keep it pristine.

What to Do at the Refuge

Spend the Day Around Mud Lake

Photo Credit: Justin Crook Photography

Mud Lake is the smaller, more rustic sister of Bear Lake. The preserved marsh area is a great place for wild exploration. There are numerous places to sit for a picnic while you watch wildlife and laze the day away.

Watch for Wildlife

Photo Credit: USFWS – Pacific Region via Flickr CC 2.0

Numerous animal species dwell within the 18,000 acres of the refuge, drawing bird watchers and other nature lovers to Bear Lake. Bring your binoculars, a comfy chair, and some snacks—you might be out here for a while.

The park’s avian life includes shorebirds like great horned owls, egrets, cormorants, and waterfowl and migratory birds like the Canada geese, sandhill cranes, and white-faced ibis, which all dwell in the wetlands. Besides birdwatching, keep an eye out for moose, elk, and native black bears on land.

Cast a Line

Photo Credit: Freerange Stock via Google Images CCL

Bear Lake’s bright blue waters are stocked with numerous whitefish species and two different kinds of trout, making the area around the refuge a world-class fishing destination. Though boat fishing is prohibited, anglers can drop a line at several locations around the lake shores. Check with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for more details.

When winter winds blow in, the summer crowds disperse, but the fishing fun continues. During particularly cold seasons, you can try ice fishing, a time-honored local tradition, and see if you can hook an elusive Bonneville Cisco.

Explore by Boat

Photo Credit: Monkey Business Images

In the warmer months; boaters can zip or drift across the open waters of Bear Lake. Ramps, docks, and boat rental shops around the shores allow easy access for both motorized and non-motorized watercraft.

Break out the kayaks and paddleboards for a slower-paced experience, or speed through the waters in a rented Sea-Doo from Bear Lake Rentals. You can even pick up inflatables to tow the kids (and kids at heart).

Go for a Swim

Photo Credit: dotspencer

Swimmers of all ages and ability levels can dip in Bear Lake’s inviting waters. The most popular swim areas — North Beach, Rendezvous Beach, and Cisco Beach — tend to fill up during the summer, so make sure to stake out your spot early in the day.

If you only have time to see one beach this trip, stop by North Beach (reserve an optional day pass ahead of time). Its shallow waters warm quickly, while two miles of pristine shore provide an idyllic place to soak up the sunshine. Other highlights include picnic tables and the floating Bear Lake Burger Boat food truck.

Hop in the Car

Photo Credit: Pavel Kiriiak

If you prefer to sample the delights of the outdoor world from the comfort of your car, the popular Bear Lake Scenic Byway runs 15 miles from Laketown, Utah, to the state border. (For a longer auto tour route, continue onward to Idaho’s Oregon Trail-Bear Lake Scenic Byway). As you drive, take some extra time to admire the vistas of the mountains and lake.

Nearby, the 41-mile-long Logan Canyon Scenic Drive carves through aspen groves and areas of historical significance. In the fall, leaf peepers from all over the country descend on this route to see the vibrant, changing colors.

Take a Hike

Photo Credit: Monkey Business Images

Whether you’re traveling with kids, dogs, or just you and yourself, Bear Lake has a variety of hiking trails covering beautiful sights and fascinating history. For a shorter trek, try the Limber Pine Trail or Swan Peak Trail, which both afford incredible views in just a few miles. Stronger hikers may want to tackle the Laketown Canyon Trail or Sink Hollow Trail, moderate hikes with ample chances to see wildlife.

No matter which hike you pick, remember to be courteous to others and respect the natural environment. You should always stick to the marked trails and leave no trace of your visit.

Bike Around Bear Lake

Photo Credit: goodluz

A 50-mile network of paved paths and roads winds around Bear Lake, making for a fun cycling day trip. Don’t be daunted by that distance; the route is ranked as easy to moderate, a relaxing way to see the lake from all sides. Fuel your ride with a raspberry milkshake from LaBeau’s, a Garden City, Utah institution.

For an added dose of adventure, consider biking to Minnetonka Cave, a 16.4-mile climb from the lakeside town of Fish Haven, Idaho. The caves stretch deep below the surface, featuring limestone formations and underground waterways well worth seeing.

Book a Tee Time

Photo Credit: Pxfuel via Google Images CCL

You can choose from two visitor-friendly golf courses on the shores of Bear Lake – the Bear Lake Golf Course and Bear Lake West Golf Course. Here, you can enjoy a one-of-a-kind sporting experience set against a gorgeous natural backdrop.

Both facilities are open to the public from spring through fall for reasonable fees. Families, large groups, and solo golfers can play at either course, as both have offerings appropriate for different skill levels.

Check out the Scenery by Horse

Photo Credit: Stephan Rapp

Hop in the saddle to check out the Bear Lake Valley from an entirely new point of view. On horseback, you can explore the tranquil corners of Logan Canyon and the Cache National Forest.

Companies like Pony Express Horseback Rides and MW Quarter Horses provide unforgettable experiences ranging from quick excursions to half-day rides. You’ll want to book quickly, though — during the high season, it doesn’t take long for trips to fill up.

Strap on Snowshoes

Photo Credit: Mark Bonham

As the temperatures drop and snow falls, Bear Lake’s winter activities are in full force! You’ll need a solid pair of snowshoes to walk through this winter wonderland. Rent snowshoes from Epic Recreation in Garden City before striking out on the Bear Legacy Pathway or any other trails in the area.

Along the way, you may catch glimpses of rough-legged hawks and bald eagles, which nest in the pine trees around Bear Lake during winter months. Consider bringing some snow saucers or inner tubes for a sledding break during your walk.

Pro Tip: If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, consider snowmobiling instead!

Set Aside a Ski Day

Photo Credit: Kent Kanouse via Flickr CC 2.0

Bear Lake boasts epic cross-country and downhill skiing opportunities. Nordic skiers should head to Beaver Bottoms or Green Canyon, both maintained by the Cache Valley nonprofit Nordic United. If off-the-beaten-track ventures are more your speed, simply set a course for the nearest hiking trail.

Meanwhile, the family-owned Beaver Mountain Ski Area has been providing thrills for downhill skiers since 1939. Here, you’ll find all the usual amenities, like gear rentals, lessons, a repair shop, and 48 runs that will suit beginners and dedicated powder hounds alike.

Plan Your Trip to Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge has countless nooks and crannies to explore. No matter how you’re traveling or who you’re traveling with, there’s something here that everyone can enjoy. Book your stay at Bear Lake Luxury Rentals and start planning your getaway today!

Are you looking to soar to new heights on your next trip to Bear Lake? If so, you’ll want to explore the Bear Lake Ropes Course at the Bridgerland Adventure Park. Situated in the heart of Garden City, Utah, the park has over 70 exciting elements up to 42 feet tall. This aerial ropes course offers a fun and affordable excursion for everyone in your group.

Book your luxury cabin today, and you’ll be right in the heart of the action for enjoying the beautiful Bear Lake and this exhilarating ropes course.

About the Bridgerland Adventure Park

• Price: $
• Address: 722 S First Lgt Dr, Garden City, UT 
• Website: blap.rocks
• Open: Seasonal; open from Memorial Weekend through Labor Day Weekend.
• Hours: Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 am until 5:30 pm.

The Bear Lake ropes course is located inside Bridgerland Adventure Park in Garden City, Utah, only a skip away from Bear Lake. The park is an exhilarating, family-friendly amusement park with several fun activities in addition to its famous ropes course. 

In addition to the ropes course, Bridgerland Adventure Park has several other fun activities, including”

• A zip line
• Free fall 
• Rock climbing wall
• Giant swing
• Axe throwing
• Bungee tramp
• Bounce house
• Miniature golf
• Kid’s train
• Tubing. 
• Free playground 
• Disc golf course

About the Bear Lake Ropes Course

The shining jewel of Bridgerland Adventure Park is the Bear Lake ropes course. This outside obstacle course has more aerial elements than any other in Utah. 

The Bear Lake ropes course has four different levels, which increase with difficulty as they increase. Each level has 18 elements and takes about 45 minutes to complete. 

Thanks to the level system, the Bear Lakes ropes course is suitable for various ages and skill levels. Younger kids and people scared of heights will do fine on the lower levels, and brave, adrenaline-seeking people will have a blast on the upper levels. 

Here’s a breakdown of the features of each level.

• Level 1: Includes fun features like pipe multi-vines, a footprint bridge, a tunnel, and a series of ropes to climb through. The elements on this level are at a height lower than the rest. 
• Level 2: Slightly higher than Level 1 and involves elements like painter’s planks, a ladder traverse, a pirate plank, a climbing traverse, and a tube. 
• Level 3: Slightly higher and more difficult. It involves a swinging log, climbing pegs, lily pads, a kitten crawl, and a catwalk.
• Level 4: The highest and most difficult of the levels. It involves difficult elements like a sliding hold climbing traverse, a skywalk, a Burma bridge, and more. 

If you’re curious about the different levels and elements, you can check out images of the different elements on the Bridgerland Ropes Course page. 

What to Know Before You Go

Who can do the Bear Lake Ropes Course?

The Bear Lake ropes course was created to be fun for all fitness levels and people of all ages! With that said, it does have two restrictions. Only kids eight and up can do the ropes course, which has a 275 lb maximum weight limit for participants due to safety reasons. 

How much does it cost?

The Bear Lake ropes course is perfect for affordable family fun. To participate, you purchase a ticket to do two levels of the course. Tickets for two levels cost $13.50 as of the 2023 season. If you want to do all four course levels, you can buy two tickets. 

How much time to spend at the Bear Lake Ropes Course?

Each level of the course has 18 elements, each taking about 2.5 minutes. If you plan to complete two levels, it’ll take you approximately 90 minutes. 

You should plan to spend at least two hours on the Bear Lakes ropes course, which gives you time to go through the safety measures,  get harnessed up, and go through at least two courses. 

If you plan to complete all four levels, it will take you at least three hours. It’s best to plan on only doing two levels, as it gets quite strenuous, and very few park visitors ever complete more than two levels. 

What to bring and wear to the Bear Lake Ropes Course?

To complete the Bear Lake ropes course, you should bring athletic clothing you feel comfortable climbing in. Shoes with a heel strap are required. 

Further, we recommend bringing tennis shoes with at least a little grip. This will make some of the climbing elements easier. We also recommend wearing sunscreen and bringing some water to drink after the course. 

Safety at the Bear Lake Ropes Course

Climbing on a 35 foot aerial ropes course may seem daunting, but rest assured because the Bear Lake ropes course has implemented several safety measures.

• Harnesses: You won’t be free climbing this aerial course; you’ll be strapped in with a safety harness the entire time. 
• Helmets: Required on the course at all times, protecting your head. 
• Trained instructors: You don’t have to brave the Bear Lake ropes course alone! All of the facilitators of the course are well-trained by a certified ropes course trainer. They all know the course and all of its elements inside and out. 
• Facilitators: There are facilitators perched on each level of the course who can help you with the elements and give instructions. If needed, the facilitators can even go onto the course with you and help you get off the course at any time. 
• Closed in bad weather: If there are any strong winds, heavy rain, or lightning the course closes.

Enjoy a Bear Lake Aerial Adventure

When you rent a vacation home on Bear Lake, you’ll find that there are plenty of options for adventure. The Bear Lake ropes course is the perfect group bonding experience. We’ll see you in the clouds!

Are you looking for a unique outdoor adventure that’s not yet on the radar of other travelers? If so, consider a visit to Mud Lake, on the northern edge of Bear Lake, Idaho. This lesser-known lake may not have much to offer in the way of amenities, but it still offers plenty for those interested in fish and game activities.

If you want to get off the beaten path, Mud Lake, Idaho, is only a short drive from your Bear Lake vacation home.

About Mud Lake, Idaho

Mud Lake, Idaho, is a waterbody part of the larger Dingle Marsh wetland system located immediately north of Bear Lake. The Dingle Marsh wetland system, also known as Dingle Swamp, is an 18,000-acre protected refuge. Both Mud Lake and the more popular Bear Lake were once part of a large prehistoric lake that filled the entire valley.

It’s important to note that the majority of the southern half of Mud Lake is closed to entry, as it’s a highly protected part of the refuge. Check the National Park Service’s map to know exactly where you can and can’t go.

Why is it called Mud Lake?

The name “Mud Lake” might not sound appealing at first glance, but it perfectly captures the natural allure of this biologically diverse area of marshland. Mud Lake and its surroundings present a thriving ecosystem with a rich diversity of wildlife. It’s essentially a playground for several types of waterfowl, fish, and various mammals, like jackrabbits, foxes, and coyotes.

Bear Lake’s marshy wetlands

Mud Lake isn’t just unique because of its ecological diversity but also because of its geographical positioning. Mud Lake sits comfortably right on the northern rim of beautiful Bear Lake, creating a striking contrast between the crystal-clear waters of Bear Lake, the marshy wetlands surrounding Mud Lake, and the entirety of the Dingle Swamp.

Why explore Mud Lake?

If you’re visiting Bear Lake in the summer and have a little extra time, exploring the northern part of the Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge can be a fun adventure into the more unpolished parts of the area. Mud Lake and the whole Dingle Marsh area have a unique ecosystem and present fantastic opportunities for wildlife spotting, particularly birdwatching!

The Best Time to Visit Mud Lake, Idaho

Mud Lake and the surrounding marshlands can be visited year-round. However, the best time to visit Mud Lake is between early spring and late fall, when temperatures are warmer, and the wildlife is particularly active. Winter can also be an interesting time to visit Mud Lake as mule deer spend their winters here, along with bald eagles and rough-legged hawks.

Driving around Mud Lake in winter can be difficult as many roads become impassable due to icy and snowy conditions. However, this does present opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Things to do in Mud Lake, Idaho

While Mud Lake doesn’t offer all the amenities of its three-hour south neighbor Bear Lake, you certainly won’t find yourself bored! These are some of the classic activities around the lake.

Birding

Mud Lake is truly a paradise for birdwatchers. You can spot Canada geese, northern pintails, and mallards by early springtime.

As temperatures warm up by April and May, even more birds arrive, including Sandhill Cranes preparing to make their nests, Franklin’s gulls, white-faced ibis, herons, egrets, and grebes. There are also several species of ducks, including redheads, canvasbacks, and lesser scaup.

Through spring and summer, all of these species of birds make the marshlands their nesting sites. In late fall and winter, almost all birds prepare to leave as more precipitation comes to the area, and the marshlands start to freeze.

Birding is one of the best reasons to come to Mud Lake, Idaho. To have the best birding experience, bring binoculars and a bird field guide to help you identify the species you see. If you wish to take any photos, bring a long-lens camera. If you’re visiting in the summer, you’ll also want to bring plenty of insect repellent, as it gets buggy here.

Fishing

With a valid Idaho fishing license, anglers are allowed to enjoy fishing in Mud Lake’s marshy waters. It’s also not uncommon to fish just north of the Lifton Pumping Station. Check out the Idaho Fishing Planner for more information about current bag limits, special restrictions, and what people are catching.

Hike and Explore the Nearby Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge

The best opportunities for exploring lie to the far north of Mud Lake, in the heart of the National Wildlife Refuge. Just south of the Salt Meadow Unit are wildlife viewing facilities and ample opportunities for hiking, canoeing, and even horseback riding. If you do wish to hike, keep in mind that many of the trails and roads are only open until January 15th. You can also snowshoe on the trails and roads during that time.

Boating

Motorized and non-motorized boats are permitted in specific boating areas from September 20th to January 15th. Boat rentals are plentiful around Bear Lake. The canoe trail, which presents a fantastic opportunity for wildlife spotting, is open from July 1st to September 20th.

Hunting

Hunting is permitted in certain areas surrounding Mud Lake, Idaho. However, only geese, ducks, snipe, mergansers, cottontails, gray partridge, coots, and sage grouse can be hunted. All other species are protected by the refuge.

It’s Time for a Mud Lake Adventure

Mud Lake’s rugged uniqueness is an amazing place to balance Bear Lake’s polished beauty. A Bear Lake vacation home is the perfect home base to explore the biologically diverse wetland surrounding the lake. Book your Bear Lake vacation rental today!