Area Info

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If you enjoy outdoor recreation, there are plenty of things to do in Bear Lake or the surrounding areas. Bear Lake spans both Idaho and Utah and draws people from all over the world who enjoy rustic outdoor recreation and unspoiled natural surroundings.

History buffs may associate Bear Lake with the famous Oregon Trail and California Trail since travelers and pioneers passed through the area. Native Americans lived in Bear Lake for Bear Valley for over 12,000 years due to the abundant hunting, fishing, and plant life. Some tribes in the area included Shoshone, Ute, and Bannock.

People interested in “the old west” may be intrigued by how the area is also associated with Butch Cassidy and numerous other historically significant people, places, and events but Bear Lake has much more going for it in addition to its history.

Bear Lake is a place where the whole family can make lasting memories. Once you’ve settled into your vacation rental home , you’ll be ready to enjoy all the lake has to offer. With an abundance of family-friendly recreation as well as more adventurous recreation for adults there is something for just about everyone who enjoys history, nature, and being outdoors.

Bear Lake’s Unique & Beautiful Landscape

Bear Lake is a natural freshwater lake spanning around 109 square miles and split about evenly between Idaho and Utah. Its Utah side is the second-largest natural freshwater lake in Utah, following Utah Lake. The lake is ancient, it’s been around for around 250,000 years.

The first thing that you may notice is the vivid turquoise-blue water which inspires Many people to refer to it as the “Caribbean of the Rockies.” This hue is due to the refraction of calcium carbonate, or limestone, deposits in the lake.

The large turquoise lake is surrounded by sandy beaches, forests, and mountains including the Wasatch Range and Bear River Mountains. The unique landscape of the region makes it ideal for outdoor adventure including hiking, water sports, climbing, fishing, exploring caves, and soaking in hot springs. Depending on your interests there are so many unmissable activities.

Bear Lake Outdoor Recreation During the Summer

During the summer, Bear Lake is often warm with cooler evenings, temperatures may reach 84 degrees and drop as low as 54 degrees. June through September are popular months to visit. Late Spring, Summer, and early Fall are popular times to visit.

Visit the Beaches

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Garden City in Utah is the go-to place for many Bear Lake visitors in part for its free beach access, playground, and boardwalk. The park provides lake access for paddle boarding, kayaking, and other water activities.

Beyond Garden City, Bear Lake is a great place for swimming and water sports. Some popular activities include jet skiing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, sailing, water skiing, boating and fishing. If you are interested in water activities like these, the Bear Lake Recreational map may help you plan your adventures.

Bear Lake has fantastic sandy beaches for you to lay out your towel and get a tan or to go swimming in the refreshing waters. The Rendezvous Beach is located in Bear Lake State Park and offers a fantastic view of the lake as well as Sandy Beach Recreation. Other popular beaches in the Bear Lake area include North Beach and East Beach. Both of these beaches are located on the Idaho side of the lake.

Relax at the Hot Springs

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Water recreation in the Bear Lake area includes the Bear Lake hot springs . These hot springs consist of two pools of mineral water with temperatures around 100 degrees Fahrenheit. They are located near North Beach in the northeast corner of Bear Lake. Relax and unwind in the shallow geothermal soaking pools.

You may also enjoy a trip to Soda Springs . Travelers following the Oregon and California trails enjoyed the naturally bubbly water and saw the town as a welcome rest stop. The town is still charming and friendly. Soda Springs was once featured on Ripley’s “Believe It or Not” for having the largest man-made geyser in the world. Located downtown, this geyser goes off every hour on the hour.

Hit the Trails

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If you are a hiker or bicycle, Bear Lake is also an excellent place for hiking and biking. The area’s primary trail networks including:

• Garden City Park Walkway: is a raised wooden walkway in Garden City Park.
• Limber Pine Trail: a 1 mile Loop to the pine forest Leading to a 2000 year old limber Pine which the trail is named after.
• Great Western Trail: part of an extensive trail extending from the Arizona border all the way up to the Canadian border passing by the Bear Lake.
• Logan Canyon Trails: is a scenic by way especially popular with mountain bikers.
• Highline Trail: a 55 Mile Trail encompassing many of the area attractions you can enter at Bloomington Canyon Paris Canyon Immigration Canyon and Logan Canyon.
• Hodges Canyon: a trail that passes through the South Sinks.

With so many hiking trails and bike trails, there is plenty to explore. Horseback riding is another favorite summer activity with so many beautiful trails. Several stables operate in the area and offer horseback tours.

Go Golfing

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If you prefer to play golf you are in luck. Bear Lake also has great golfing, most notably the Bear Lake West Golf Course .

If disc golf or mini-golf is more your speed then you may prefer to spend the day at the Bridgerton Adventure Park . This park offers something for the whole family including rope courses, zip lines, rock climbing themed fun, ax throwing, swinging, turf tubing, a kid’s train and playground, and more.

Dig for Fossils

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Embrace your inner archeologist by going on a dig for fish fossils . Not only do you get to dig in the quarry but you keep every fossil you find. The area is one of only two locations in the world where a complete 3-Toed Horse has been found. Other fossils found may include gar, stingrays, pike, shrimp, diplomystus, knightia, amia, paddlefish, and even turtles, crocodiles, bats, birds, ancient rhinos and camels, and primates.

Head Underground

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The unique landscape includes caves. There are a couple accessible caves within a scenic, easy drive

The Paris Ice Cave is open July 1 until the end of the summer season and located about 15 miles north of Garden City. Another option is the Minnetonka Cave also about 15 miles away from Garden City. It happens to be Idaho’s largest limestone rock cave complete with stalactites and stalagmites. This 1,800 deep cave consists of about 896 steps.

Enjoy Birdwatching

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Nature lovers and Bird watchers also enjoy exploring the parks and natural places. Bear Lake’s Idaho north shore features 1,760 acres of preserved marshy grasslands. This land is home to a variety of birds including raptors, songbirds, and waterfowl. The Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge is located approximately 10 miles from Montpelier, Idaho.

You may think of birdwatching as a fall, spring and summer activity but there are also great bird watching opportunities in the winter .

Try Raspberry Everything

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Each August, Garden City is home to the Bear Lake Raspberry Days festival . While this may seem like an unusual theme for a festival, the area is renowned for producing sweet and juicy raspberries.

For three days festival goers celebrate raspberries with live music and entertainment. The love for raspberries extends beyond the festival. In fact, many guests feel their summer stay isn’t complete unless they enjoy a delicious raspberry shake in Garden City.

Bear Lake Outdoor Recreation During the Winter

One interesting thing about Bear Lake is there isn’t just one peak season. The summer provides a diverse range of recreational activities, but so does the winter.

Hit the Slopes

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People travel to the area for skiing. The Beaver Mountain Ski Area in nearby Logan Canyon is just a quick drive from Garden City, Utah and Fish Haven, Idaho. Pine Creek Ski Resort outside of Cokeville, Wyoming is just an hour’s drive from any place in the Bear Lake Valley. You may rent skis and snowboarding equipment if you don’t have your own.

In addition to downhill skiing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing are also popular. The scenic trails through Bear Lake’s well-known pristine mountain wilderness are perfect for cross-country exploration. Sometimes you may cross-country ski on the Bear Lake Golf Course. Nearby Logan Canyon and Idaho’s Emigration Canyon. Be sure to study the maps published by Trail Grooming info on the Nordic United website for groomed and ungroomed trails.

Go Snowmobiling

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People with a need for speed may enjoy snowmobiling . The Bear Lake area and its surrounding mountain range contain 350 miles of groomed snowmobile trails as well as wide open play areas where there are no crowds. You can rent snowmobiles, ATVs and other recreational vehicles at several stores in the area and they may also help you figure out licensing and registration requirements.

Catch Dinner

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Fishing and Ice Fishing are among the most popular activities in Bear Lake. The area boasts a record breaking trophy cutthroat trout fishery where a fisherman actually broke the world record by catching a 19 pound cutthroat. Peak fishing season runs in January and February.

The area is unique since there are four endemic fish species in Bear Lake meaning you can’t find them anywhere else. These include the:

• Bonneville Cisco
• Bonneville Whitefish
• Bear Lake Whitefish
• Bear Lake Sculpin

For more information about fishing in Bear Lake and the required licensing, see the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources and Idaho Fish and Game .

Enjoy Winterfest Event & Festival

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Garden City has another big event in addition to the summer Raspberry Festival. Each January, it is also home to the Bear Lake Monster Winterfest . Highlights include an annual Monster Cisco Disco, Monster Polar Plunge, Monster Chili Cook-off, Monster Outdoor Expo, Monster Cisco Tournament, and a raffle.

If you enjoy a little good, cold fun you won’t want to miss this unique festival.

Bear Lake’s Shoulder Season

Although Bear Lake remains a popular destination year round, shoulder season is considered spring and fall. If you choose to visit in the fall and spring, you may find it just isn’t so crowded but there is still plenty of outdoor recreation to enjoy.

Year Round Activities in the Bear Lake Area

Since these activities below are all indoor, you and your family or friends can enjoy them any time you visit Bear Lake. The classic “indoor activity” is to enjoy one of the area’s famous raspberry shakes. Be sure to grab one on your way to or from any of these other area things to do.

Learn About Bear Lake’s History

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Due to Bear Lake’s history with the Oregon Trail, anyone interested in American history will want to visit the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center in Montpelier, Idaho. While you are at it, if the old west fascinates you try visiting the Butch Cassidy Museum . In case you are unfamiliar with the Montpelier area, Idaho is just a short drive north of Bear Lake.

The interactive exhibits and exhibitions give you a chance to learn what it was like to be on the Oregon Trail. While the center focuses on the Oregon Trail it also contains information and insights about the journey people took on the California Trail. If you’re lucky you may even get a chance to catch a show at the community theater. We recommend you visit it early in your trip since you may learn about local landmarks that you simply must see for yourself.

Another local landmark is the Paris Tabernacle which was built by the LDS in 1889 out of sandstone that had to be transported 18 miles from Indian Creek, near the Bear Lake hot springs. The site is an interesting piece of the region’s history as well as a lovely place to visit.

Put Your Skills to the Test

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If your family loves games and puzzles, then the Escape at Bear Lake escape room may be a must visit diversion. It’s also great if you happen to have a rainy day and just don’t want to spend the day outside.

The manager’s described it as, “sixty minutes to escape from a themed, interactive environment. Ideal for family, friends, students, colleagues, gamers, and thrill seekers!” If you enjoy games and challenges, an escape room offers a lively diversion.

Catch a Show

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If you want a fun night out, the Pickleville Playhouse in Garden City is worth a night out. This theater is described as “Utah’s most unique family theater experience.” The shows are lively and family-friendly. If you prefer going to a movie, north of Bear Lake in Montpelier is the Centre Theatre where you can see new releases.

Pick Up Some Souvenirs

If you want a fun night out, the Pickleville Playhouse in Garden City is worth a night out. This theater is described as “Utah’s most unique family theater experience.” The shows are lively and family-friendly. If you prefer going to a movie, north of Bear Lake in Montpelier is the Centre Theatre where you can see new releases.

Pick Up Some Souvenirs

Shopping in the Bear Lake area offers a mix of unique souvenirs, local delicacies, fishing, and sporting goods and equipment, as well as historically themed items. Browsing the local shops supports local businesses and you just may find a unique gift item or a treat for yourself.

Take Some Time to Relax

Since there is so much to do, it is easy to overbook yourself and get exhausted. Sometimes the simple pleasures like relaxing on the beach or by a fire are exactly what you need to recharge and get away from the hustle and bustle of your everyday life.

With such gorgeous surroundings, the Bear Lake area is also a nice place for a private retreat in addition to a destination for adventure seekers and history buffs.

You’re Ready to Enjoy All That Bear Lake Offers

The Bear Lake area offers so many unmissable things to do. One visit probably isn’t enough to enjoy all the area has to offer. Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing, bird watching, exploring the area’s history, relaxing on the beach, or water sports, your visit to Bear Lake will be unforgettable.

If you come in the summer your experience will be very different than if you visit during the winter. You may even love it so much that you find yourself coming back over and over whenever you need a getaway.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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

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.