Area Info

Stretched across the Utah – Idaho state lines, Bear Lake is home to more than 160 square miles of turquoise-blue water. The lake is roughly 20 miles long by 8 miles wide, and a prime destination for boating and watersports like paddleboarding, kayaking, and water skiing.

There are seven boat ramps located around Bear Lake, including two at Idaho’s North Beach, three at Rendezvous Beach, Bear Lake Marina, and East Beach. The Marina at Bear Lake State Park hosts hundreds of boat slips and a five-lane boat ramp. When the time comes to explore the Caribbean of the Rockies, check out one of the local outfitters for knowledge, helpful tips, and all the necessary equipment, including boat rentals!

Bear Lake Funtime Rentals

(435) 946-3200 • https://bearlakefun.com

Bear Lake Funtime has locations at North Beach, Rendezvous Beach, and the Marina, as well as 1217 S Bear Lake Blvd. in Garden City. On-site boat rental options include pontoons, ski boats, wakeboard boats, fishing boat rentals, and all necessary accessories, as well as non-motorized options like sea-doos, SUPs, kayaks, and water trampolines, and land explorers like UTV street legal side-by-sides, bicycles, and snowmobiles (in the winter months). The floating marina store features a fuel dock and full-service grill. Also offering guided fishing tours for anglers of all skill levels.

Bear Lake Rentals

(435) 946-8611 • http://bearlakerentals.com

Choose from five different boat models for rent from Bear Lake Rentals. All rental boats are open bow with wakeboard towers (with the exception of the pontoon boats), life jackets, and stereos with device connections. Also available: SUPs, sea kayaks, wakeboards, and tubes for single or multiple riders. Launch point is 5 miles north of Rendezvous Beach.

Epic Recreation

https://www.instagram.com/p/B0zXgA3A0jU/embed/?cr=1&v=12&wp=1080&rd=https%3A%2F%2Fbearlakeluxury.rentals&rp=%2Fblog%2Fbear-lake-boat-rentals%2F#%7B%22ci%22%3A0%2C%22os%22%3A2533.7999999970198%2C%22ls%22%3A2394.4000000059605%2C%22le%22%3A2436.5999999940395%7D

(435) 946-3742 • https://www.epicrecreation.net

With locations at 2410 S Bear Lake Blvd. in Garden City, as well as Bear Lake Adventure Center, North Beach, and the Marina, Epic Recreation offers Bear Lake boat tours, boat and waverunner rentals, and non-motorized recreational equipment like standup paddleboards and kayaks. Epic Rentals’ Marina location is home to a full-service boat ramp and public boat slips.

TK Watersports

(801) 367-0668 • https://tkwatersports.com

TK Watersport provides top-quality watercraft rentals, including powerboats, wakeboarding boats, ski boats, fishing boats as well as jet skis and wave runners. Popular models include the Centurion FS 33 surf, Supreme 238 Wake, Centurion SV233, Centurion Fi23, and Cast-A-Way Pontoon boat rentals. For a guided experience, consider the full-service Water Sports Charter Package, which includes a driver/instructor, wakeboards, surfboards, kneeboards, skis, pull tubes, life vests, and more.

Utah Boat Rentals

(801) 413-9602 • https://www.utahboatrental.com

Utah Boat Rentals offers speedboats from MasterCraft with eight different X-Series wakeboard and surf boat rental models to choose from. Also available for rent are wave runners, sea-doos, and jet skis. Guests seeking a more guided experience can select from a variety of water sports lessons and boat tours offered by Utah Boat Rentals at all marinas in Bear Lake.

The Bear Lake Valley offers hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails perfect for exploring the mountains or beaches of Idaho and Utah on ATVs or UTVs. Choose your path over stream crossings or through thick groves of pines, and aspens – all the while, taking in the breathtaking views of Bear Lake. These same trails are ideal for snowmobiling in the winter .

Bear Lake State Park does not provide off-highway vehicle opportunities as ATVs and UTVs are governed by the same regulations as standard motor vehicles within the park. However, there are several areas to ride nearby, including:

• Garden City Canyon (upper Logan Canyon)
• Hodges Canyon and Richardson Fork
• Temple Canyon and Cottonwood Canyon
• South Eden Canyon

Explore interactive trail maps online to find all local trails and plan your riding course:

• Utah Division of Parks and Recreation
• Idaho State Parks and Recreation

Equipment required for legal use of ATVs/UTVs on paved roads:

• Rear view mirror
• Turn signals
• Horn
• HI/low-beam headlight
• Taillight and brake light
• Registration and insurance
• Current license plate
• Helmet (under 18 years of age)

To make sure you’re geared up and headed in the right direction, check in with one of the local outfitters for equipment rentals, guided tours, and important tips from local experts. See our list of the most reputable ATV rental services below.

Bear Lake Funtime Rentals

(435) 946-3200 • https://bearlakefun.com

Bear Lake Funtime has locations offering ATV/UTV rental service at Rendezvous Beach, and the Marina, as well as 1217 S Bear Lake Blvd. in Garden City. In the summertime, rent street-legal UTV side-by-sides to explore the nearby mountain trails. Options include the UTV 4-Seater Can-Am Maverick 1000 and the UTV 6-Seat Can-Am Defender HD8 for 1-8 hours of rugged adventure! Wintersport rentals are also available for snowmobiling and more. Serving locals and visitors since 1998.

Beaver Creek Lodge

800-946-4485 • https://beavercreeklodge.com/rzr-rentals

Beaver Creek Lodge offers seasonal rentals from May through October. Options include the Can-Am Defender MAX DPS (seats up to 6), Can-Am Maverick X3 MAX Turbo (seats up to 4), and the two-seater Can-Am Maverick Trail. Located in Logan Canyon, less than 15 miles west of Bear Lake. Enjoy on-site UTV side-by-side rentals with instant access to high mountain trails and beautiful scenery! Choose rental increments from 2-24 hours. Snowmobile rentals (during the winter months) and horseback riding are also available.

Bloominite Rentals

(208) 945-1249 • https://www.bloominiterentals.com

Bloominite Rentals is Bloomington, Idaho’s premier power sports rental company. Rental options include UTVs, ATVs, snowmobiles, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards – making Bloominite Rentals a four-season service! ATV/UTV models in-stock are the Polaris RZR 1000 4-seater, Polaris RZR 1000 40-seater, and the Polaris Sportsman 570 available for 2, 4, and 8-hour blocks of time.

Epic Adventure Center

(435) 946-3742 • https://www.epicrecreation.net

With locations at 2410 S Bear Lake Blvd. in Garden City, as well as Bear Lake Adventure Center, North Beach, and the Marina, Epic Recreation offers off-road rentals, including 2-seater UTVs available for 4-8 hours. Wintersport rentals are also available for mountain adventures in the snow.

When you think of adventure on turquoise waters, you may not instantly think of Utah or Idaho… but you should! These neighboring states both lay claim to Bear Lake, a natural gem nestled within the mountains, and home to waters so rich in a characteristic aqua hue that it has earned the designation of being called “the Caribbean of the Rockies.” Serving as the centerpiece of the Bear Lake Valley, the lake occupies approximately 109 square miles with shores embracing Bear Lake State Park and Cache National Forest. Bear Lake is a popular destination for recreation-seekers, with an array of adventures to be found both in the water and on land.

Hit The Hiking (And Biking) Trails

Getting out and exploring nature on your own terms is not a challenge on Bear Lake. No matter your speed or ability, there is a hiking trail that is perfect for you. A multitude of walking trails for the novice to advanced hiker are easily accessible around the lake, including within the state park. Some of the most popular are the Limber Pine Trail (an easy, 1.5 mile loop), the Laketown Canyon Trail (a moderate, 7-mile round-trip), and the challenging North Fork at St. Charles Canyon (10 miles round-trip).

There is also no shortage of mountain bike, ATV, snowmobile, and horseback riding trails at various points surrounding Bear Lake. Find interactive trail maps of all types here .

For a guided tour that you will not forget, make sure to check out the Oregon Trail Center in Montpelier, Idaho where you will get a real taste of the wild west in more ways than one. With everything from historical museum exhibits and guided trail tours to a genuine chuck wagon dinner, this is an experience like no other.

Adventure On The Water

Water lovers will find no shortage of exciting activities at Bear Lake. Some of the more popular water sports amongst Bear Lake visitors are paddleboarding, water skiing, jet skiing, and kayaking. Boat and other water sports rentals are readily available and located at different locations around Bear Lake. There are seven boat ramps located around the lake so launching your own watercraft is a breeze.

Choose Your Beach Adventure

Rendezvous Beach

Photo Credit uniqueharsh via Instagram

Located on the south end of Bear Lake, Rendezvous Beach is a large, open waterfront recreation space with some very useful amenities. The beach has four reservable pavilions, modern and primitive campsites, and boat rentals. There is a small restaurant located near the boat ramp and rental shop. Rendezvous Beach is a popular spot for boating, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing, rafting, and kayaking.

North Beach

This two-mile stretch of beach rests on the north side of Bear Lake, in Idaho. Its gradual slope and expansive waters make it an ideal swimming beach. On-site public ramps offer access to boating and water skiing fun as well! Additional boat ramps are available at the State Marina on the west side of Bear Lake.

Garden City Beach

Photo Credit: amalooop via Instagram

Garden City has a public beach accessible via Garden City Park. This is a full service recreation area, complete with a pavilion, playgrounds, basketball courts, and a large grassy area. The boardwalk located at the far end of the park leads down to the beach (an approximate quarter-mile walk). Public restrooms are available, as well as a rental shack for paddleboards and kayaks.

Adventure On The Road – Scenic Drives

Oregon Trail – Bear Lake Scenic Byway

Travel through Soda Springs and Lava Hot Springs toward McCammon, passing 15 historic and scenic points along the way.

Logan Canyon National Scenic Byway

Photo Credit: topofutahtravelguide via Instagram

Journey parallel to the Logan River through Logan Canyon, and its dense forests, lush meadows, rugged rock formations, and panoramic views. Especially breathtaking in the fall.

Bloomington Lake

Photo Credit: ayeroon via Instagram

A stunning, high elevation route filled with vibrant wildflowers, dramatic cliffsides, and two lakes. Features sweeping panoramic views of the lake and surrounding valley area.

For The Adventuring Foodie – The Bear Lake Raspberry Shake

Aside from the alluring waters, Bear Lake is also quite famous for the raspberry shake – a signature staple that can be found just about anywhere where food is served nearby. LaBeau’s in Garden City is arguably the local favorite. Garden City also hosts the Raspberry Days festival during the first weekend of August each year, in celebration of the harvest peak. Feel free to overindulge in this local treat – morning, noon, and night!

Land Excursions

Minnetonka Cave

Photo Credit: alwayspackasweater via Instagram

Minnetonka Cave Road, St Charles, ID 83272

Located in Idaho’s Cache National Forest, Minnetonka Cave is a favorite spot for exploration in St. Charles Canyon and one of two caverns administered by the Forest Service. Guests are invited on 90-minute guided tours through the half-mile limestone cave system, featuring nine rooms lined with travertine, stalactites, and stalagmites.

Bear Lake Golf Course

Photo Credit: salty_red_beard via Instagram

554 Lewis Loop, Fish Haven, ID 83287

Beautiful 9-hole mountain course situated above Bear Lake. The par 33 course, built in 1976, measures 2,715 yards. The Bear Lake West public facilities include a restaurant and sports bar with panoramic views of the lake.

Pickleville Playhouse Theatre

Photo Credit: missyhelene via Instagram

2049 S Bear Lake Blvd, Garden City, UT 84028

Proudly offering family-friendly entertainment for more than 40 years, this professional live theatre and grill is open seasonally on the banks of Bear Lake in Garden City. Enjoy an incredible meal before or after the show in the open-air pavilion.

Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Photo Credit: colt.j.dixon via Instagram

322 N 4th St, Montpelier, ID 83254

Bear Lake Refuge was established in 1968 to protect and manage habitat for waterfowl and other migratory birds. Located just outside of Montpelier, Idaho, the refuge encompasses 18,000 acres of cattail marsh, open water, and flooded meadows managed by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. Visitors are welcome year-round for day use hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, and boating.

At Bear Lake Luxury Rentals, our cabin rentals , condo rentals and vacation homes are perfect for a variety of individuals or group types. We regularly host parties ranging from single vacationers and couples up to large groups, including corporate retreats .

What about those who are looking to plan a fun getaway trip with a slightly larger family or a diverse group of friends? We have the perfect rentals for you as well. We’re also here to assist with some of the nitty-gritty details when it comes to planning these trips, which involves some careful discretion when it comes to making sure everyone is comfortable and happy with their quarters and amenities on the trip. Let’s go over several vital areas to ensure you take care in here.

Sleeping Accommodations

For starters, there’s no need for large groups to pile onto couches and floors for sleeping when you have our luxury vacation rentals available to you. We have a wide range of different property sizes based on the number of people attending your trip and their sleeping needs, with several multi-room setups that allow for privacy if several different families or groups are attending.

Also pay attention to bedroom amenities, which may include attached bathrooms, storage considerations, bunk beds for kids attending, and others.

Bathroom Considerations

Speaking of bathrooms, it’s a good idea to get an idea of your rental layout and the bathroom situation in advance. The last thing you want is to have your sleep disrupted several times a night because you’re in the bedroom that connects to the only bathroom; you won’t run into this sort of theme in our luxury rentals, but similar ones still exist. If anyone in the group has particular bathroom needs, consider whether the rental you’re choosing will fit them.

Kitchens and Gathering

The kitchen tends to be one of the top gathering locations for any vacation rental, so you’ll just want to ensure that the kitchen or living space in the rental you choose has ample size for your group. Many families or groups of friends enjoy cooking or preparing for meals together, and you don’t want anyone to be left out of the fun here.

Location, Location, Location

Finally, there are few things more important for a great vacation than the location itself. This is an area where Bear Lake stands out – there are few places with as much natural beauty, and you really can’t ask for much more when you combine this with our modern, luxurious rentals. The ability to explore and take in the outdoors while still remaining in luxury accommodations is second to none when it comes to a group getaway.

For more on important planning considerations for family or friend group vacations, or to learn about any of our fantastic rentals, speak to the staff at Bear Lake Luxury Rentals today.