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The Best Places for Bear Lake Snowmobile Rentals

Photo Credit: Denis Moskvinov

Born adventurers know there’s no place quite like Bear Lake. The Utah/Idaho outpost is among the world’s most renowned spots for fun, thrills, and natural beauty. It’s a sheer paradise for anyone who appreciates Mother Nature’s wonders. Everywhere you turn, stunning scenery abounds.

The area itself is a dream at any time of the year. It’s during winter in Bear Lake, however, that the crowds come flocking in search of the ultimate snowy adventure.

From late November to April, winter-weather enthusiasts know that they can come to Bear Lake whenever the snowmobiling bug strikes. The town offers over 300 miles of groomed trails that are ready for the ride. Those same trails are used for ATV rentals when the snow has covered them.

What’s extra-special about this area is that you never know what you might see during your trek. Is that a moose in the distance?

If you’re ready to dust off your snowmobile or you’re preparing for your first trek, here’s some useful information you should know — along with some of the best places for Bear Lake snowmobile rentals in the backcountry.

What Makes Bear Lake Snowmobiling So Special?

It’s incomparable for a reason. The Bear Lake Valley is renowned for everything from its spectacular views to its seemingly endless maze of groomed trails. You’ll have a blast making your way along the snow — without any worry about encountering a disruption, like a fence or a big crowd. Because you have access to such open spaces, you’ll quickly develop a keen appreciation for snowmobiling if it’s your first time.

If you’ve never been to Bear Lake before, prepare to be amazed by what you encounter during your adventures. Sure, Northern Utah is more than celebrated for its legacy of snowy trails, there are other highlights you may spot along the way.

Look to your left — is that a crisp waterfall? Steal a glance below. You may spot a frozen body of water. Look close enough and you just might catch the aforementioned glimpse of a moose or elk somewhere in the distance.

Top Trails to Explore on Your Snowmobile

Among the best-known trails in Bear Lake Valley is the Garden City Trail , a vibrant and often popular option that’s ideal for people with a little bit of experience.

Try the Beaver Creek Trail , just a stone’s throw from the Beaver Creek Lodge, if you’d prefer a little bit more variety or you’re traveling with a group of people, all of which have different preferences for snowmobiling trails. Approximately 6.5 miles in length, it provides a simple and relaxed option for novices. In fact, Beaver Creek Trail is popular among beginners because it all but encourages regular stops for food and beverages along the trek.

Make your way to the Sinks Road Trail if you’d like something a little more exciting and memorable.. It’s connected to the Garden City Trail, and features a range of extensions that allow you opportunities aplenty to explore. For example, you can go off in search of Temple Canyon or the Peter Sinks Loop Trail.

Finally, make some room on your itinerary for the Fish Haven/St. Charles Trail . It’s near the border of Utah and Idaho, offering you the chance to spend all day on the 34-mile round trip trail.

Enjoy the journey and you’ll ultimately end up at Bear Lake, where you can enjoy the view of the Bear River Range.

What Should You Bring for Snowmobiling?

You won’t love snowmobiling if you aren’t equipped with the right clothing and gear for all of the fun! You can rely on a range of Bear Lake snowmobile rental providers to supply everything that you need to make the most of your experience — even clothes! Some even offer guided tours and lessons, giving you a closer look at what makes Bear Lake so special.

Safety is a key reason that the right equipment — and the right snowmobile — are so important. When you choose to rent from a company, you can be sure that the vehicle is in top-tier condition, that it works efficiently, and that it’s fueled for the trip. It’s a good idea to keep a trail map handy (you can get one at many of these rental companies), as cell phone reception may be occasionally spotty. Always ensure that you’re dressed in protective gear to safeguard your journey.

Utah Snowmobiling Rules & Regulations

Keep in mind that there are rules and regulations that apply to operating snowmobiles in Utah. You can’t be younger than 16 years of age, for example; anyone younger can only sit as a passenger. Always ride your snowmobile on the right side of the trail, and be mindful of fellow adventurers who might be out there skiing or snowboarding.

Where Can You Rent Snowmobiles in Bear Lake?

Bear Lake Funtime

Photo Credit: bearlakefun via Instagram

  • 1217 S Bear Lake Blvd., Garden City, UT
  • (435) 946-3200

Take your pick from a variety of high-quality winter rentals at Bear Lake Funtime. The company offers seasonal rentals year-round, with options for four-, six-, and eight-hour intervals. Among the area’s most popular locations for rentals, including boats, Ski-Doos, and ATVs, Bear Lake Funtime takes your enjoyment seriously. Book your rental as early in advance as possible so you can beat the crowds and take to the slopes and trails.

Epic Adventure Center

Photo Credit: Epic Recreation via Facebook

  • 201 N Bear Lake Blvd., Garden City, UT
  • (435) 946-3742

You’ll find plenty of enjoyable winter rentals at Epic Adventure Center. You can pick up a mountain bike or a snow sledding tube, but the real excitement comes when you hop aboard one of the company’s snowmobiles. If you prefer, the company can fuel up your snowmobile of choice before you arrive for a surcharge. Options are available for novices and experienced riders alike.

Beaver Creek Lodge, Inc.

Photo Credit: bclutah via Instagram

  • 12800 US-89, Garden City, UT
  • (435) 946-3400

Situated east of vibrant Logan, the Beaver Creek Lodge is a great place to visit if you’re seeking a comfortable place to stay along with a spot where you can rent snowmobile equipment. You’ll have immediate access to some of the best trails in the entire area, and can take advantage of both half day and full day rentals. The lodge even offers snowmobile clinics with AJ Stevens, a guide known for his expertise in the field.

ClubRec

Photo Credit: clubrecutah via Instagram

  • 3718 N Wolf Creek Dr., Eden, UT
  • (801) 745-3038

With locations in Wasatch and only an hour from many of Utah’s most popular areas, including Park City, Salt Lake City, Logon, and Ogden, Club Rec offers six convenient stops throughout the state. The company offers an extensive selection of rentals, including Ski-Doo multi-day and off-site rentals. ClubRec also offers visitors a chance to get a better lay of the land through its series of comprehensive snowmobile tours. Take advantage of the VIP Tour, Wildlife Tour, or Top of the World Tour no matter what appeals to you.

You’re Ready for an Unforgettable Adventure

Whether you’re visiting Bear Lake with your family, a group of friends, or for a romantic getaway, be sure to add snowmobiling to your list. Don’t worry, once you’ve had your fair share of outdoor excitement, you’ll quickly be able to warm up in your luxury cabin rental . Not only will you get a chance to explore the surroundings and fully immerse yourself in a wintery landscape you’d otherwise not be able to enjoy, it’s also a lot of fun to cruise around in the snow.

A Traveler’s Guide to Winter in Bear Lake

Photo Credit: Von Taylor via Flickr CC2.0

There’s a reason why the locals call it “The Caribbean of the Rockies.” Bear Lake, a well-known 20-mile long and 8-mile wide lake a little over two hours north of Salt Lake City, spans Utah and Idaho with vivid blue waters. The juxtaposition of the turquoise waters and gleaming white snow make Bear Lake a must-see in the winter.

While more often visited in the summer, one of the West’s best-kept secrets is Bear Lake in the winter. Surrounded by vast areas of unexplored wilderness as the snow falls and the clear mountain air fills your lungs, the Bear Lake Valley becomes a winter wonderland.

A winter vacation in Bear Lake means a bigger variety of accommodation available, fewer crowds, endless winter activities, and cloudless blue skies, called “bluebird days,” inviting you to play outside (or indoors, if you prefer).

So read on for your go-to traveler’s guide for your next getaway to Bear Lake in the winter!

Weather in Bear Lake in the Winter

The region experiences winter from late November through early February. You should anticipate prolonged snowfall and reduced daylight hours throughout this season. December is the coldest and the snowiest month, with an average low of 25°F and high of 38°F and an average snowfall of 3 inches.

Expect a lot of cloud cover in January when the sky is cloudy or mostly cloudy for a majority of the month. Throughout winter, daily average temperatures range from 12°F – 30°F.

To fully enjoy your winter getaway to Bear Lake, don’t forget to pack these things:

  • A good warm coat
  • Gloves
  • A scarf
  • A pair of cozy winter boots
  • Sunscreen

These are all essential items to carry if you want to take advantage of all that a Bear Lake winter offers.

Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, either. Yes, even in winter. Bear Lake is 5,924 feet in elevation, so sunburns can be quite intense, especially on bluebird days when the sun can reflect easily off of the white snow.

Things to Do for an Epic Winter Getaway

Bear Lake Valley becomes a powdery playground that the whole family may enjoy once winter arrives. All ages and skill levels can participate in numerous outdoor adventures, including snowmobiling and Nordic skiing.

In addition, there are many winter activities in Bear Lake that don’t require snow or subfreezing conditions. Think hot tubs and cozy afternoons curled up by a wood-burning fire, admiring the spectacular wintry scene from afar.

Here’s what you can expect to get into:

Ski Lessons at Beaver Mountain

Photo Credit: skithebeav via Instagram https://www.instagram.com/p/ChXCKZ2Om39/

Beaver Mountain takes pleasure in offering a top-notch experience as a family-owned and operated ski resort. This involves providing group or private lessons for skiers of all skill levels as early as three years old.

Skiers and snowboarders will enjoy the diversity of runs available thanks to access to four separate ski lifts, and children have more space to explore and hone their newly acquired skills because this ski resort is less crowded than most.

An adult full day pass (9 am – 4 pm) is $60 and available for purchase at the ticket window upon arrival. No reservations are needed.

Traverse The Sinks

Photo Credit: mlish126 via Instagram

The “Sinks” is a giant limestone sinkhole located in Logan Canyon, about ten minutes west of Bear Lake. This ideal place in Cache Valley boasts several excellent slopes for snow tubing and sledding in the frigid, snow-covered area.

Everyone can enjoy it because it is as unplugged as entertainment gets. Wear appropriate clothing, though, and pack a thermos. The second-coldest recorded temperature in the lower 48 states, -69.3°F, was recorded in this area, which is infamous for its extreme climate.

Cross-Country Skiing, Snowmobiling, and Snowshoeing

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You can frequently ski right from your rental accommodations when winter arrives. The Bear Lake Golf Course offers fantastic cross-country skiing. Still, there are miles upon miles of beautiful routes and snowmobile trails through Bear Lake’s unspoiled alpine wilderness. There’s even an opportunity for backcountry and night skiing.

In addition, Logan Canyon’s routes are perfect for snowshoeing because most of them are off-limits to snowmobiles, making for a quieter experience. Starting at the Bunchgrass Creek trailhead, a snowshoeing path travels 4 miles along the creek bed until it reaches the White Pine Canyon Junction or 9 miles until it reaches White Pine Lake. However, most people snowshoe the 3-mile out-and-back for a more leisurely adventure.

If you’d rather exchange your exercise for a side of adventure, Bear Lake is one of the top places to go snowmobiling during the winter months.

Go Fish

Bear Lake typically transforms into a big ice field during the winter, freezing as deep as three feet and making for an exciting time to go ice fishing. You can jig for trout and whitefish if you’re willing to endure some extremely chilly weather. However, it’s definitely worth the catch. Anglers go great distances to take advantage of the numerous fishing spots around Bear Lake in the winter.

When the Bonneville Cisco travels near the shore to spawn in the middle of January, anglers have the chance to set up a vantage point and dip net for fish through the ice. A prize is given to the person who catches the largest Cisco during an annual event known as the “Cisco Disco” at Bear Lake Monster Winterfest.

Even if fishing isn’t your thing, the Bear Lake Monster Winterfest should still be on your to-do list. Between a polar plunge, a chili cook-off, and many other exciting activities during the last weekend in January, there’s no shortage of fun at this frigid festival.

The Bear Lake Monster name is most likely a reference to the Loch Ness Monster, given its more than 100-year history. According to reports, the story was based on Native American folklore when it first appeared in the 19th century. Joseph C. Rich, the son of Bear Lake’s founding father, published multiple essays on the “monster” in the late 1800s, which he later claimed were merely fictional fun. Currently, Utah State University maintains a digital archive of artwork and articles regarding the legend of the Bear Lake Monster.

Stokes Nature Center

Photo Credit: stokes_nature_center via instagram

The Stokes Nature Center concentrates on environmental and animal education for all ages. It’s situated close to the mouth of Logan Canyon. The non-profit nature center was founded in 1997 and offers events, including nature walks around Logan Canyon, guided snowshoeing outings, and wreath-building in the winter. Be sure to check out their event calendar.

Pickleville Playhouse

Photo Credit: allychoe via Instagram

The Pickleville Playhouse , a musical theater built in 1977, is located on the banks of Bear Lake in Garden City, Utah. The settlement of Pickleville, where the playhouse previously resided, inspired the playhouse’s name. The town of Pickleville was incorporated into Garden City shortly after the Playhouse was built. Reference their calendar for current events.

Best Places for a Cozy Meal

Around Bear Lake, there are numerous dining options for an incredible meal. That is if you’re not cheffing it up in your fully equipped kitchen at your luxury vacation rental home. You may discover fantastic breakfast, lunch, or dinner options, including takeout, burgers, and Mexican. And believe it or not, the below establishments are open year-round in Bear Lake.

Cody’s Gastro Garage

Photo Credit: codysgastrogarage via Instagram

Cody’s Gastro Garage, which opened as a component of the Water’s Edge Resort in 2017, has quickly become a local and tourist favorite in Bear Lake. Cody, the owner’s enthusiastic son, inspired the establishment’s name, which combines superb food with imaginatively themed dining. Try the Philly cheesesteak – you won’t be sorry.

Coopers at Bear Lake West

Photo Credit: cinnamonandcoconut via Instagram

Cooper’s is a family-run business located on the Bear Lake West Golf Course. From skillfully fresh steak, fish, chicken, pasta, and burgers, it’s the ideal location for family dinners, relaxed lunches with friends, or a date night. You will appreciate the welcoming atmosphere at Cooper’s whether you’re there for a meal or some libations.

Bear Trapper

Photo Credit: lilmissremi_n_babydex via Instagram

The crew at this family-owned and operated restaurant is well-known for their excellent customer service. The milkshakes, coffee, and lemonade are a bonus. Bear Trapper offers a variety of hearty meals, including mouthwatering menu items for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Café Sabor

Photo Credit: cafesabor via Instagram

Affordable, delicious Mexican food – What more might you need? Tacos, burritos, enchiladas, margaritas, and everything you need to wind down a long day are available at Café Sabor. Choose between combo dishes, flavorful individual items, and vegetarian options while the full bar sates your thirst.

Enjoy Bear Lake’s Winter Wonderland

As an exceptional place to spend winter, we’re sure you’ll love your time spent on Bear Lake. Even if you’ve visited us in the summer, there’s no season quite like winter here. With a plethora of indoor and outdoor activities, modern cabins to rest in, and the quintessential winter wonderland scene unfolding right before your eyes, there’s no better place to bundle up.

Bear Lake Packing List Guide

We’ve all been there – days away from the perfect getaway and “vacation brain” sets in. The anxiety is real – especially when you get to your destination and realize you forgot the most critical items imaginable back at home. Sure, you can make a run to the store every time you take notice of something you left behind, but you have better things to do! So, let’s be proactive, shall we?

Take a few moments in that last-minute chaos to inhale deeply and envision yourself kicked back on the shores of Bear Lake beneath the peaks of the Rockies, and then check this handy packing list and let’s make it happen!

Spring And Summer Apparel

When it comes to attire, keep it comfortable and casual! Bear Lake is a natural destination, centered around a freshwater lake with epic warm weather recreation opportunities. How you plan to dress is somewhat dictated by your planned activities, but it’s wise to plan for anything because you never know what appealing amusements may arise that you simply can’t stand to pass up!

Spring in Utah can be unpredictable and dramatic. It’s the best of both worlds if you visit early in the season, when you’re more likely to have the option of combining warm and cold weather activities on the same day. Depending on when you plan your spring stay, you may wish to consider a smart blend of attire for both types of climates to keep your options limitless!

Utah summers offer warm days and nights promoting lakeside adventures anytime, and commanding outdoor exploration in the sunshine. As is the norm for a mountain town, activities at higher altitudes will demand warmer attire even when temperatures are higher in the valley below. Plan on layering during mountain excursions.

  • Swimsuits
  • T-shirts, tank tops, collared pull-overs
  • Shorts, jeans, capris
  • Sundresses
  • Light, waterproof jacket
  • Running shoes, sandals, flip flops
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat

Fall And Winter Apparel

If you plan to take advantage of snow-filled mountains, think in layers. While fall may be a milder version of summer, winter at Bear Lake requires that you plan your wardrobe around time on the slopes as well as around town before and after your adrenaline-fueled fun. Fashion is not the only consideration as comfort and safety are critical factors in enjoying your visit, and much of this depends on being properly dressed for the conditions and events you plan to encounter.

To layer like a pro, plan for base layers consisting of thermal wear or running gear, and always opt for waterproof. Avoid cotton fabrics and plan pieces that are easily mixed and matched to stretch your wardrobe. Fleece garments and zip-jackets make for an optimal mid-layer, while a complete set of ski attire creates the perfect outer layer.

  • T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, and collared shirts
  • Long pants
  • Thermal underwear
  • Waterproof jacket or coat
  • Comfortable shoes, boots
  • Gloves and scarves
  • Waterproof ski boots with tread
  • Ski pants
  • Waterproof ski jacket
  • Ski socks
  • Polarized sunglasses

Gear Up For Spring And Summer Activities – Bring Along Or Buy On Arrival

Naturally, you plan on taking advantage of the ample recreational adventures afforded by our unique destination. Bear Lake is a popular location for scenic exploration, fishing, and boating, for starters. Plan to use your backpack as an activity pack with all of the smaller essentials on-hand at all times.

While you can certainly find local retailers and outfitters to provide equipment and gear for sale and rent during your stay, there are bound to be some items that you just prefer to be your own. While choosing to bring or buy is ultimately a personal choice, consider what activities you will partake in, and to what extent. What is your level of commitment to these activities beyond this getaway? Don’t forget your lucky charms or any custom-fit gear you may have trouble replacing with rental equipment.

  • Pails and shovels
  • Beach towels
  • Beach cart or mesh tote
  • Cooler
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Swim goggles and snorkels
  • Floaties
  • Waterproof sunscreen
  • Lip balm
  • Insect repellant
  • Fishing tackle
  • Backpacks
  • Compass
  • Flashlight
  • Binoculars
  • Trail Maps
  • Grab-and-go-snacks (EX: granola bars, trail mix)
  • Reusable water bottle
  • First aid supplies
  • Specialized swimming gear (goggles, earplugs etc…)
  • Other essential hiking or fishing needs

Gear Up For Fall And Winter Activities – Bring Along Or Buy On Arrival

With winter activities, much like the summer, many items will be available for rent. Consider what needs you may have based on the activities you plan to enjoy and the items you may already have on hand. You may not wish to lug along a pair of skis, but your goggles may fit snugly in your suitcase! Top winter activities include skiing, snowboarding, and ice fishing.

  • Ski goggles
  • Ski gloves
  • Any specialized ski gear
  • Lip Balm
  • Moisturizer
  • Backpacks
  • Compass
  • Reusable water bottle
  • First aid supplies
  • Other essential hiking or fishing needs
  • Flashlight
  • Binoculars
  • Trail Maps
  • Grab-and-go-snacks (EX: granola bars, trail mix)
  • Adhesive foot and hand warmers
  • Skis or snowboard with bindings
  • Ski poles
  • Helmet
  • Wrist guards and knee pads

Toiletries And Supplies For Your Vacation Home

It’s advisable to pick up extra toilet paper and paper towels upon arrival. For quick and easy cleanup throughout your stay, consider grabbing a supply of paper plates, napkins and plastic utensils, as well as aluminum foil. Other items you may wish to personally select to keep at hand during your stay include:

  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss
  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Soap
  • Deodorant
  • Shaving kit
  • Hair styling products
  • Contact lens case and solution
  • Eyeglasses and case
  • Makeup bag
  • Feminine products
  • Travel manicure kit
  • Travel first aid kit
  • Sunscreen
  • Lip Balm
  • Moisturizer
  • Ear plugs
  • Tissues

Electronics And Gadgets

While we certainly don’t want to encourage working on your vacation, you’ll surely want to inspire a little FOMO in your friends and family back home. To keep connected, and ready to capture and share all of your vacation’s finest moments, make sure to pack up the essential electronics and gadgets… and don’t forget your chargers!

  • Portable phone charging bank
  • Earbuds or headphones
  • Waterproof, shockproof cell phone case
  • Small action camera (EX: GoPro) and selfie stick
  • Laptop and charging cables
  • Cell phone/tablet and chargers
  • Camera, memory cards, and chargers

Personal Necessities

Why not bring along a few special items from home for amusement while you’re enjoying some down time at your vacation rental? A few good ideas include a favorite book, puzzle, board games, or DVDs! Of course, you should never travel without these few necessities either:

  • Photo ID and credit cards
  • Medical insurance cards
  • Emergency contact information
  • Any necessary medications and prescriptions

Bear Lake Hiking Trails

Embark on a little land adventure with your lakeside excursions at Bear Lake on the Utah-Idaho border! Nestled alongside Bear Lake State Park, in the Rocky Mountain range, Bear Lake is located about two hours north of Salt Lake City and less than three hours south of Grand Teton National Park. Its characteristic deep blue waters are an extraordinary sight in the American West, making the Bear Lake area a popular destination for those in search of the beauty of the Caribbean in the heart of the mainland. But the fun isn’t limited to the water!

Throughout the Bear Lake area, visitors are welcome to explore a diverse network of hiking trails through aspen forests and alpine meadows with peek-a-boo shores. Temperatures in the valley tend to linger in the 70s-80s during the warmer months, making the lake a welcome reward after the challenging recreation of a summer day, while spring ushers in meadows of wildflowers and fall sees autumn hues in abundance.

In the winter time, many of the area’s trail systems transition from serving hikers and mountain bikers to greeting those in search of snow-centric fun and the lake makes a better source for ice fishing than boating .

When you’re ready to get fit, get out, and go explore – grab a legendary raspberry shake and hit the trails. We suggest starting with these popular treks:

Bear Trail

9.2 Miles • Out & Back • Easy

Bear Trail offers a paved path spanning 4.6 miles in each direction, for a 9.2 mile round trip. The trail is ideal for bicycling or walking with strollers, and it’s perfect for all ages and skill levels. Leashed dogs are also welcome. The trail is accessible year-round, with breathtaking views of Bear Lake.

To pick up the trail from the southern end, head to the east side of Bear Lake Blvd. in Garden City. From the north, begin at Bear Lake State Park.

The Limber Pine Trail

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1.5 Mile • Round Trip • Easy

The Limber Pine Trail is a popular, short nature walk with a series of switchbacks. Great for even the youngest explorers and leashed dogs, the dirt-trail loop above Bear Lake is peppered with education stations providing lots of detail about the area’s native flora and fauna. A giant 560-year-old limber pine tree stands at the far end of the 1.5-mile loop.

The Limber Pine trailhead (with parking lot and restrooms) is located seven miles west of Bear Lake on Highway 89 toward Logan Canyon.

The Laketown Canyon Trail

7 Mile • Round Trip • Moderate

The Laketown Canyon Trail is one of the most scenic and refreshing hikes in Bear Lake Valley, on the south end of Bear Lake. The dirt trail weaves in and out of the canyon stream, past a reservoir partway with moderate elevation gain to the spring at the top. The trail is open to use for biking, hiking, horseback riding, motorcycles and ATVs .

Park at the Laketown Rodeo Arena to access Laketown Canyon Trail. The arena is located at 10 North 200 East in Laketown.

Sink Hollow Trail

9 miles • Round Trip • Moderate

Sink Hollow Trail is a segment of the Great Western trail, rich with Western history and lush landscapes centered around Horse Lake and the Beaver Mountain Ski Area. The trail is a popular location for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter. The climb up Beaver Creek is smooth and fast, with a steady gentle slope, while the descent involves navigating rock gardens and steeper loose slopes.

The Sink Hollow trailhead can be found near the Beaver Mountain Ski Area on Beaver Creek Road, about twenty minutes up Logan Canyon.

St. Charles Canyon Trail

10 miles • Round Trip • Difficult

The town of Saint Charles is home to the famous Minnetonka Cave, a nine room cave full of stalactites, stalagmites, and banded travertine. Visitors enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, and motorcycling on local trails, and fishing in St. Charles Creek. The North Fork Trail features a scenic creekside hike to Bloomington Lake with a gradual elevation gain of 2,000 feet.

Seven miles from the Minnetonka Cave, access the North Fork trailhead at the North Fork Campground area.

Steam Mill Hollow

11 miles • Round Trip • Difficult

Steam Mill Hollow offers a more challenging hike through fir and aspen forests to Steam Mill Lake, nestled among a glacial cirque adorned with wildflowers. Along the path, locate a rusted old steam boiler – a relic of early logging days in the mountains. Keep an eye out for roaming elk!

Find the Steam Mill trailhead off Franklin Basin Road – a short drive up Logan Canyon Road from Bear Lake.

Highline Trail

55 Miles • Point To Point • Difficult

Highline is a long-distance trail along the crest of the Bear River mountain range, crossing from Utah to Idaho. The trail is open to hiking, horseback riding, and mountain bikes as well as dogs, and suitable for cross country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. The diverse pathway options cover a range from easy to rough terrain.

The Highline Trail is accessible from numerous points for segmented hikes, including Bloomington Canyon, Paris Canyon, Emigration Canyon, and Logan Canyon.

Continue Your Trail Discoveries

National Oregon/California Trail Center • 320 N 4th Street, Montpelier, Idaho 83254

If you can’t get enough of the area’s legendary trails, make sure to save some time for a glimpse into the most famous trail in United States history! For a guided tour that you will not forget, check out the National Oregon/California Trail Center in Montpelier, Idaho!

Here, you will get a real taste of the wild west and pioneering life along the Oregon Trail, with everything from museum exhibits and guided trail tours to a genuine chuck wagon dinner. It’s the best way to celebrate your own trailblazing with your friends and family.

History Of Bear Lake

Nestled in the top of the Rocky Mountains in the Bear Lake region is a land of lush valleys, meandering turquoise-blue waters, epic recreation, and some of the most intriguing pioneer history in the American West.

A Rich & Storied History

The history of Bear Lake stretches back to the late 18th-century when Native American tribes like the Shoshone, Ute, and Bannock utilized the Bear Lake Valley as a prime hunting ground, as well as a gathering and camping site. The early 1800s brought mountain men to gather in the region for fur trapping, hunting, and trading. At one of these gatherings, Donald “Fats” McKenzie, an explorer for the North West Fur Company, dubbed the freshwater lake at the center of it all Black Bear Lake, due to the abundance of black bears in the area.

Later shortened to simply Bear Lake, the waterway has always been a central focus of the region’s allure – along with Bear River, the largest tributary of the Great Salt Lake. Bear River flows through the Bear Lake Valley in Idaho, past Montpelier where it receives Bear Lake at the Idaho-Utah border.

Suppliers and trappers continued to utilize the region as a rendezvous point for decades, including notables like Jedediah Smith, Jim Bridger, William Ashley, and Tom Fitzgerald. The increasing popularity of the trade route drew pathfinders such as John C. Fremont and Captain Bonneville to map out the Bear Lake Valley, naming mountain peaks, canyons, and streams in the area.

These missions helped to reveal opportunities for settlement throughout the region leading into western Oregon, prompting large numbers of people to begin making their way across the newly established trails in search of a place to call home.

Expanding Into Nearby Areas

From the Thomas Fork Valley. trailblazers followed the Oregon Trail. The trail reached the Bear Lake Valley area near the point where US Highway 30 enters Idaho, generally following the path of Bear River to the northwest. Thomas L. “Peg Leg” Smith operated a prominent trading post near Bear Lake in Dingle, southeast of Montpelier, providing a convenient point for supply stops and trades among travelers and mountain men along the route.

By the early 1860s, Mormon leader Brigham Young had begun sending pioneering settlers to the Bear Lake area to establish the faith-focused community of Paris, Idaho under the leadership of Charles C. Rich. The development of neighboring communities soon followed, leading to the beginnings of prosperous farming and mining industries and an important role in the expanding railroad system.

Finding The History Of Bear Lake Today

Logan Canyon Scenic Byway

Logan Canyon Scenic Byway is a 41-mile, two-lane highway from Logan to Garden City. Famous for its scenic offerings, the byway parallels the Logan River through Logan Canyon, through dense forests, lush meadows, and rugged rock formations. If you opt to embark on a sightseeing expedition, many historical points of interest will be accessible along the way. You can get a taste of the Oregon Trail from the byway as well. From US 89, you can drive all or part of the original hundred-mile route between Bear Lake and Star Valley, Idaho.

National Oregon/California Trail Center

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Follow the footsteps of the original pioneers with an up-close look at the Oregon Trail, complete with a simulated wagon train experience. This historical center was built along the original trail in Montpelier, Idaho. The Center is also home to the Peg Leg Smith Trading Post gift shop, the Rails and Trails Museum, the Allinger Community Theatre, original art exhibits, and historical exhibits from the Bear Lake County Historical Society, Union Pacific and Daughters of Utah Pioneers.

Wilford Woodruff Home And Visitors Center

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This two-room log cabin is the former home of Wilford Woodruff, the third president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The building now serves as part of the Historic Nauvoo Visitors Center, hosting artifacts and information about early Mormon leaders dating back to the mid-1800s. Tours of the cabin are available.

Rendezvous Beach

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From the days of the original mountain men, people have been gathering to trade goods, supplies, and stories at Rendezvous Beach. Today, this highly popular 1.2-mile-long recreational area is still largely pristine, and a haven for those in search of watersports and boating. Rendezvous Beach is on the south shore of Bear Lake near Laketown at Bear Lake State Park

Paris Tabernacle Historical Site

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Constructed in 1889, this Romanesque Mormon tabernacle is a historic meetinghouse of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, still functioning as a house of worship and a community center. A small museum houses heirlooms and objects of art left by the original homesteaders. Self-led and guided tours are available. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Butch Cassidy Museum

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Visit the last standing bank in the world robbed by Butch Cassidy and his gang! Located in southeastern Idaho, The Bank of Montpelier was established in 1891 as the first chartered bank in the state and became famous after Butch Cassidy and his Wild Bunch Gang robbed the bank on August 13, 1896. A reenactment of the robbery is held annually on the Saturday closest to the original robbery date.

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