Local Activity Guide

Apr 06 2023

A Visitor’s Guide to North Beach State Park

The hustle and bustle of everyday life can make anyone feel drained and gloomy. Why don’t you trade in those blue feelings for clear, pristine blue waters on a Bear Lake getaway?

Relish the soft sand, endless sunshine, and dreamy paradise attracting thousands to the “Caribbean of the Rockies” each year! The piece de resistance? A beach day at North Beach State Park!

Contemplating a visit? You’ve come to the right place. Here at Bear Lake Luxury Rentals, everything Bear Lake is our business. We’ve helped thousands of visitors like you make the most of this precious landscape and indulge in all the nearby town offerings. The best part? A comfortable, lavish lodge or chalet to host you and your entire family or friend group!

Back to the beaches, though. You have endless options, from Cisco Beach on the east side and Rendezvous Beach in the South all the way to North Beach State Park, Idaho, in the North — the latter being our absolute favorite.

A stone’s throw away from St. Charles, North Beach State Park has an extensive stretch of beautiful beachfront along the northern shore of Bear Lake. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about North Beach State Park for your visit.

But before we jump into the deep end? Let’s first get to the history of Bear Lake and its surrounding areas.

About North Beach State Park

Bear Lake’s sparkling freshwater lake spans over 109 square miles. The region boasts not only sandy beaches but also dense forests, towering mountains, and flourishing meadows.

The lake’s mesmerizing waters — thanks to its refraction of limestone deposits — have won Bear Lake the moniker “Caribbean of the Rockies.”

Areas near the lake have unique aquatic meadow plants. Further out on the hills, the lush vegetation has a blend of sagebrush, grassland, and juniper. There are also pine, aspen, and spruce woodlands, and of course, the region’s famed raspberry plants.

Enveloped by towering mountain ranges such as the Bear River Range, Wasatch Range, and Uinta Mountains, Bear Lake has a spectacular backdrop.

But Bear Lake isn’t just about pretty panoramas. The area is rich in history and culture, going back to the early 19th century. Indigenous tribes like the Shoshone and Bannock people used to call the region home. Back then, the area had a vast black bear population, so it used to be called Black Bear Lake.

Now, it’s a hub for shoreside relaxation, biking, boaters, water skiing, and fishing.

But back to North Beach State Park — what is there to do there, apart from reveling in the natural beauty?

Things to Do at North Beach State Park

Beach Side Relaxing

Photo Credit: Bryant Olsen via Flickr CC2.0

There are plenty of beach spots to pull up for the day around Bear Lake, but this one is worth putting at the top of your list! Buy a day pass, come early, and find a comfortable spot to hang on the beach at North Beach State Park.

Traveling with young ones? The gradual slope of the lake into the water makes it a kid-friendly beach with ample room to stretch out or frolic in shallow waters without fully submerging.

Pair that with a toasty-warm water surface that softens and extends into the water’s depths, and North Beach State Park is the ideal swimming area for kids and adults alike.

Our perfect laze-by-the-beach kind of day looks something like this:

A refreshing dip in the gem-colored lake
Suntanning on a towel with your favorite book in hand
A short nap while listening to the lake water’s hum — the epitome of summer day relaxation.

In other words? Heaven.

Did you pack munchies for the kiddos? Meander to one of North Beach’s over 70 picnic tables for a family lunch. Bring your own grills for a BBQ!

Amenities

The area has amenities to keep your day trip as comfortable as possible, like five wheelchair-accessible vault bathrooms for your kids to clean up after burying themselves in the sand.

Rent Water or Snow Equipment

Photo Credit: Kaspars Grinvalds

Travelers looking for an adrenaline rush instead of just beach bummin’ fun can bring their own water sports gear or rent some to explore the lake.

Paddleboarding and Kayaking: Bring a paddleboard or kayak and slow time down while drifting on the calm lake waters.
Boats, Non-Motorized Water Toys, Seadoos: Bear Lake Fun makes it easy to rent equipment at North Beach State Park. Choose between boats, fast sea-doos, and other gear.
Snowmobiling in the Winter: Colder months see fewer tourists but an uptick in winter activities and events. During the snowmobiling season, North Beach State Park has almost 300 miles of meticulously maintained trails nearby.

Go Fishing

Photo Credit: TeodorLazarev

Bear Lake’s fishing is unparalleled. Throughout the year, anglers from all over the nation are drawn to Bear Lake thanks to the abundance of fish. Bear Lake Sculpin, Whitefish, and the Bonneville Cisco are endemic to the lake — the latter of which spawns in the first two months of the year, making winter at North Beach State Park a fisherman’s dream.

North Beach State Park’s boat ramp provides easy access to the lake, and the gorgeous scenery of the surrounding cliffs and woodlands makes for an unforgettable fishing experience. There are plenty of boat rental services available around the lake as well.

Whether you’re looking to reel in the catch of the day or enjoy a peaceful day on the waters, North Beach State Park is the perfect place to do it.

Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge Kiosk

Photo Credit: rdng tchr via Flickr CC2.0

Further north of North Beach State Park, beyond Mud Lake, sits Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Birdwatchers and animal lovers will enjoy sunrise walks around the refuge. Expect to spot birds like hawks, bald eagles, and eagles.

Tips for Visiting North Beach State Park

Day Pass: Purchase a day pass to avoid being turned away during full-capacity days.
Pets: Dogs are not allowed on the North Beach State Park
Bring Your Own Shade: There’s almost no shade anywhere on the beach, so bring an umbrella and apply tons of sunscreen to prevent sunburn.
No Showers: There are no showers at North Beach State Park — wash up back at the lodge instead.

Where to Eat

Photo Credit: YoloStock

Don’t have time to pack lunch? Try out a nearby staple! There are plenty of places to eat around Bear Lake, but these are two of our favorites near North Beach State Park.

Bear Lake Burger Boat

Availability: Seasonal from Memorial Day Weekend to August or September
Price Range: $
Location: Frequently Updated on Social Media

Bear Lake Burger Boat is a popular summertime food establishment unique to North Beach State Park. This unusual, quirky food truck-esque boat serves juicy burgers, mouthwatering hot dogs, crispy chicken sandwiches, drool-worthy pulled pork, and sweet ice cream.

When the pontoon-boat-turned-restaurant turns up in the waters, hungry beachgoers wade toward it with grumbling bellies.

Their timetable and location on the beach depending on the weather and waters. So keep your eyes peeled for a yellow food boat during your visit for a scrumptious meal by the beach.

Float On

Availability: All seasons
Price Range: $
Address: 101 N Beach Road, St Charles, ID

A 7-min drive from North Beach State Park is Float On, an epic ice cream and snack shop. Trust us; this is an unmissable pit stop during your holiday to North Beach.

Forget counting calories and indulge in Float On’s raspberry shakes, pineapple float, oreo shakes, and loaded fries. Attached to the shop is a small souvenir store selling trendy merch where you can pick up a couple of tank tops or t-shirts.

Enjoy North Beach State Park with Bear Lake Luxury Rentals

Bear Lake’s sandy shoreline radiates tranquility and luxury, especially when clocked in golden light from a sunrise or sunset. Sit back, relax, and stay a while. After an entire day wiggling your toes in the soft sand, make your way back to one of our Bear Lake Luxury Rentals.

Expect spacious rooms, cushy beds, and endless amenities at our lavish holiday accommodations. Take a warm shower and drift off into deep slumber to energize for another day of Bear Lake adventures.

Nov 21 2022

8 Day Trips from Bear Lake You Can’t Miss

Photo Credit: Wirestock Creators

When it comes to massive lakes that cross state borders, most people think of Lake Tahoe, between California and Nevada. However, a little further northeast sits Bear Lake, which straddles the line between Utah and Idaho.

While Bear Lake doesn’t have the same name recognition as Tahoe, it’s still a paradise for travelers who want fun under the sun and plenty of water activities to go around. If you’re staying at Bear Lake , there are many day trips you can take to make your vacation even more memorable.

We’ve compiled a list of the best day trips to take in and around Bear Lake, aka the “Caribbean of the Rockies.” So, pack your bags and let’s get going!

Day Trip 1: Minnetonka Cave

Photo Credit: Joe Guetzloff

Time From Bear Lake: 40 minutes
Location: St. Charles, Idaho

Caves are some of the most fascinating natural formations around, especially when you visit ones as large and expansive as this one. Minnetonka Cave is one of the top show caves in the United States, and it’s made mostly from limestone that’s been carved away over centuries and millennia.

The cave is very family-friendly, but it might be a bit cold for little ones, so be prepared. The cave is only open from Memorial Day to Labor Day because snow and cold temperatures can seal the entrance and prevent visitors from going inside.

Since this cave is out in the middle of nowhere, there aren’t any other attractions or sights nearby. The tour takes about 90 minutes, so you won’t be spending the whole day here. There are some points to take note of before visiting, like:

Prevent White Nose Syndrome – Minnetonka Cave is home to many bats, which can develop this disease from exposure to certain fungi. So, you must not wear anything that’s been inside another cave to prevent an outbreak of this illness. Items also include cameras, phones, purses, etc.
Dress Warmly – The cave stays at about 40 degrees Fahrenheit, so be prepared to get cold. We recommend coats, scarves, and warm hats.
Plan to Hike – Trekking through the cave isn’t a walk in the park, and guides will frequently stop to allow guests to catch their breath.

Day Trip 2: Paris Tabernacle and Museum

Photo Credit: scottcsorensen.templephotos via Instagram

Time From Bear Lake: 25 minutes
Location: Paris, Idaho

The name of this holy site stems from the city of Paris, Idaho, not the one in France. The Tabernacle was built from 1884 to 1889 when it was dedicated by Mormon president George Q. Cannon. The building still maintains its historic appearance, and the exterior used red sandstone delivered by wagon from a quarry 24 miles away. Interestingly, during the winter, Bear Lake would freeze over, so the wagons could cut their time down and ride over the ice.

Although this tabernacle is listed on the Register of Historic Places, it’s still used by local Mormons for regular service. If you’re visiting to learn about the history, you can take a guided tour that lasts about 30 minutes.

Across the street is a history museum, where you can find out more about the founding of Paris, ID and the Mormon colony that built the town.

Day Trip 3: Salt Lake City

Photo Credit: f11photo

Time From Bear Lake: 2.25 hours
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah

Part of the appeal of Bear Lake State Park is the fact that you’re so far removed from modern civilization. While spots like Rendezvous Beach and North Beach are still pretty well-maintained, you don’t have to worry about traffic and moving around in a concrete jungle.

That said, outdoor activities and water sports can get old after a while, so if you need a taste of the city life, Salt Lake City is just over two hours away. That said, the distance depends on where you’re at the lake.

Some of the top attractions in Salt Lake City include:

Mormon Temple – Find out more about the Church and its origins, and discover how the city was supposed to be the center of a divine nation called Deseret. While non-Mormons aren’t allowed in the main temple, you can walk around the grounds and tour the visitors center.
Great Salt Lake – If you’re coming to this city, you have to visit the massive salt lake from which it gets its name. The lake is stunning and much bigger than you might expect.
Olympic Roots – Salt Lake City hosted the Winter Olympics in 2002, and the city still has many Olympic buildings and sites up and running for tourists.

Day Trip 4: Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Photo Credit: William Cushman

Time From Bear Lake: 35 minutes
Location: Montelier, Idaho

On the opposite of Bear Lake from Rendezvous Beach sits this massive, 18,000-acre wildlife refuge. If you’re looking to explore the great wild unknown, this is the place to do it. Not only can you get plenty of exercise while hiking the miles of trails, but you can also spot tons of local birds and animal species.

The refuge also allows hunting year-round, as well as canoeing, bird watching, mountain biking, and more. Also, even though it’s a National forest, there’s no fee to enter. Just make sure to bring lots of water and snacks as you explore the area because there are no signs of civilization for miles.

Day Trip 5: Visit Bloomington Lake

Photo Credit: Ryan Strikwerda

Time From Bear Lake: 1 hour
Location: Bloomington Lake, Idaho

Although the turquoise blue waters of Bear Lake are incredible, there’s something so special about going to a pristine freshwater lake like Bloomington. Tucked away with mountains and hills all around, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to another dimension, or at least to the Alpine hills of Switzerland or Austria.

Be forewarned that the trails leading to the lake can get snow as early as June, so plan accordingly. Also, that illustrates how cold the lake is year-round, so bring lots of warm clothing too.

Day Trip 6: Visit Montpelier

Photo Credit: some_kind_of_adventure via Instagram

Time From Bear Lake: 35 minutes
Location: Montpelier, Idaho

Although this Montpelier is not as well-known as the capital of Vermont, this small city still has multiple attractions that make it worth a day trip from Bear Lake. Some of the highlights of this town include:

Butch Cassidy Museum – It’s not often that a bank reveres the person who robbed it, but such is the case with this museum. The owners restored the last bank robbed by Cassidy and his gang, so you can relive the glory days of one of the most famous outlaws in American history. Best of all, this museum is free.

National Oregon/California Trail Center – The Oregon Trail saw thousands of settlers crossing over into the Oregon territory, searching for a fresh start and a new life. This center helps capture the spirit of the time and relays it to you and your family through entertainment and historical artifacts. The center even has its own community theater onsite.

Montpelier also has its own Mormon tabernacle and multiple historical sites dotted throughout the city. So, you may want to walk around and take in the sights.

Day Trip 7: Take a Dip in Lava Hot Springs

Photo Credit: gypsymoonfortunetelling via Instagram

Time From Bear Lake: 1 hr 30 minutes
Location: Pocatello, Idaho

If you take highway 30 for about 90 minutes, you’ll wind up in the small town of Lava Hot Springs. This creatively-named burg gets its title from the hot springs that form naturally off the Portneuf River. Even though these springs are heated by underground elements, they don’t stink of sulfur, making them far more appealing.

The resort surrounding the springs also has regular swimming pools and a sunken garden, so feel free to spend as much time here as you like. Then, you can also explore the rest of the town and its numerous parks. Lava Hot Springs is also home to many nearby campsites, so if you’re interested in sleeping under the stars, you can pitch a tent and spend the night.

A bit further south is the Lava Hot Springs mountain lookout, which offers superb views of the town and the river.

Day Trip 8: Visit Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area

Photo Credit: Galyna Andrushko

Time From Bear Lake: 2 hr 20 minutes
Location: Manila, Utah

Bear Lake not only straddles Idaho and Utah, but it’s also close to the border of Wyoming. So, if you want to visit three different states during your visit, you can head over the Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. Oddly enough, this national park also straddles two states – Wyoming and Utah. Instead of a lake, however, the main body of water is the Green River, which offers both pristine views and various waterside activities.

Although you might want to spend a day hiking and exploring the river, the park is far too massive to see in a single visit. The southern part of the recreational area (in Utah) spans various peaks and valleys, all of which offer spectacular views of the region. Some notable peaks include Dowd Mountain, Boar’s Tusk, Red Canyon, and the Sheep Creek overlook. If you try to hit all of these sites, plan to spend most of your time in the car, and have your camera ready at all times.

Enjoy All the Area Has to Offer

Although you can definitely enjoy your entire vacation by lounging around Bear Lake and taking advantage of all it has to offer, why not get out of town for a day or two and see more underrated gems? Northern Utah and Southern Idaho have so much to offer its visitors that were sure you’ll love every day trip on this list!

Nov 01 2022

A Traveler’s Guide to Bear Lake State Park

Photo Credit: Tampa

Bear Lake State Park sits immediately south of the Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Formed by tectonic forces along the eastern Bear Lake fault line, this 966-acre park is roughly 150 miles northeast of Salt Lake City and 330 miles from Boise, Idaho.

The northern half of Bear Lake is located in Idaho, and the southern half is in Utah. Initially named Black Bear Lake by beaver trapper and fur trader Donald Mackenzie in 1819. This recreational paradise is 20 miles long and 8 miles wide.

Calcium carbonate in the lake’s waters helps create the mesmerizing aquamarine blue water that has earned this freshwater lake its nickname, the Caribbean of the Rockies. Bear Lake State Park is a hidden gem of Utah that hugs Bear Lake’s West and East shores. It incorporates the lake and three central shoreline locations along Bear Lake’s West and East shores.

Once you’ve checked into your nearby luxury vacation rental home , it’s time for you to enjoy the beautiful outdoors in Bear Lake State Park.

Numerous recreational beaches dot the shoreline:

North Beach State Park, the North Beach boat ramp, and Idaho State Park sit at the northern tip.
On the east side of the lake are day-use areas of Bear Lake State Park, Idaho, also known as East Beach.
A mile or two further south is North Eden, while Cisco Beach is just across the Utah border.
And, the famous Rendezvous Beach sits at the lake’s southernmost end.

Each location offers various amenities within the Utah and Idaho State Parks and is open from sunrise to sunset.

Summer at Bear Lake State Park

Photo Credit: Tampa

During the summer, the lake is a water lover’s playground. While water levels can vary throughout the summer, the lake depth averages 207 feet and maintains a refreshing 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

A gradual shore-to-lake bottom slope provides an expansive swimming area. While still leaving lake goers ample space for sailing and paddle boarding.

Scuba diving is also popular at Bear Lake. The 207 foot depth allows for challenging and technical dives, and an underwater cave system leads directly to the lake.

Off the lake, eight hiking trails crisscross beautiful Bear Lake Valley. Many use this region for ATVs and biking.

Bear Lake State Park’s proximity to the National Wildlife Refuge makes it a well-known birding destination important to dozens of migratory and nesting populations, including Canadian Geese, Terns, and a breeding population of American Bitterns.

Every summer, the lake is home to Raspberry Days – a two-day festival and nighttime boat parade celebrating all things raspberry .

Winter at Bear Lake State Park

Photo Credit: visitbearlake via instagram

Although some might shy away from the snowy weather, Bear Lake State Park is full of great winter activities for the entire family.

In the winter, anglers can try ice fishing along the southeastern shore of Bear Lake for the famed Bonneville Cisco . The Bonneville Cisco is one of three fish unique to Bear Lake. First appearing in the Pleistocene Era, these deep-water salmoniform fish are thin and agile — growing only nine inches in length.

Bear Lake Valley’s climate is just as accommodating in the winter as in the summer. With an average of 67 inches of snow each year, the Valley trails turn into groomed paths perfect for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling .

Several lake towns surround Bear Lake State Park, including Garden City, Utah, and Paris and Montpellier, Idaho. These communities have rich histories and numerous attractions to keep everyone entertained. Small grocery stores in each town sell basic supplies, and several restaurants and snack shops line Interstate 89 for when the hamburger and pizza cravings hit.

Bear Trail and Trailheads

Photo Credit: bearlake.org

Bear Lake State Park is also known for the Bear Trail , located near Garden City, Utah, on the lake’s western shore. This 10.0-mile out-and-back trail is paved asphalt and smooth, and the route is easy, taking three hours to complete at a leisurely pace. Open year-round, it is perfect for road biking or running, too.

Another enjoyable path, Bear Lake Trail , is an easy 1.4-mile shore hike. It is paved and well-maintained, offering a peaceful walk along the beach.

Logan Upper Canyon Snowmobile Trail is actively groomed and open each winter for safe and exciting OHVs and cross-country ski use.

Park Marina

Photo Credit: bearlake.org

The Bear Lake State Park Marina on the west side of Bear Lake is open year-round, with roughly 360 short-term and long-term slips available. Slips accommodate sail and power boars up to 34 feet with a 12-foot beam. The Marina also provides dry and wet storage options for trailers and boats. The Marina is located on the north end of Garden City, Utah, and serves as the headquarters for this beautiful park.

Boat Ramps & Launches

Photo Credit: stateparks.utah.gov

Bear Lake State Park is known for excellent boating, and its calm water makes yacht sailing a dream. The lake is easily accessible through numerous boat ramps located around the lake.

There are five Bear Lake State Park-approved boat ramps and launches. All types of boats can be launched from Bear Lake State Park Marina and Rendezvous Beach, and in the east are First Point, Cisco Beach, and Rainbow Cove.

The Idaho North Beach boat also has a designated boat launch at the northernmost tip of the lake. Use of all boat launches is lake water level dependent for safety.

Fees & Day Pass

Day-use entry fee is required for all beaches and the Bear Lake State Park Marina. There are different rates for state residents and non-residents. And discounts for Seniors. Utah has a seasonal State Park Pass that visitors can use for park entry and in and out.

There are different rates for the beaches on the east side – including East Beach in Idaho, First Point, North Eden, South Eden, Rainbow Cove, North Eden, and Cisco Beach.

Parking

Each central Bear Lake State Park has sufficient free parking for day users and overnight camping guests.

Beaches

While these lake beaches and recreational areas offer all activities, dogs are unfortunately not permitted on any beach or other part of Bear Lake State Park, including on the lake.

Rendezvous Beach

Photo Credit: hannadanyal via Instagram

Rendezvous Beach sits on Bear Lake’s south shore near Laketown. Another day-use area, it is well-loved for a day in the sun or an impromptu family meal. The sand volleyball courts and picnic tables on this two-mile sandy beach are almost always in use. And the local concessionaire, Rendezvous Beach Rentals, offers beach equipment rentals . They also sell snacks, drinks, last-minute picnic supplies, and necessary items.

On the western shoreline is Epic Adventure Center for year-round water-based enjoyment. The Center offers Bear Lake Boat Tours for a leisurely tour of the beautiful Bear Lake. The Center also provides personal watercraft rentals and water skiing lessons in the Summer. In the winter, visitors can rent snowmobiles and ATVs for outdoor snow-filled fun.

Island Aqua Park

Immediately adjacent to Rendezvous Beach is Island Aqua Park . This unique playground is a staffed floating obstacle course located offshore in shallower water.

Eastside Beaches

On the east side of Bear Lake State Park, Utah, ten miles north of Laketown and accessed via Cisco Road, are highly primitive day-use beaches, including First Point, South Eden, North Eden, Rainbow Cove, and Cisco Beach. Here the terrain is craggy, and the water depth quickly reaches 207 feet. These beaches are primarily for boating, fishing, and advanced scuba diving. South Eden campground provides drinking water.

Cisco Beach

Photo Credit: esselborn1 via Instagram

Cisco Beach offers excellent inland scuba diving within two designated diving areas. These are marked for safety, with nearby wooden boardwalks serving as platforms for equipment portage and preparation. This part of Bear Lake State Park is famous for its winter shallow dip net fishing for the Bonneville Cisco.

East Beach

Also on the lake’s eastern shore, just over the Idaho border, is Bear Lake State Park, Idaho. This day-use, East Beach, sits just below the East Shore Marina and offers basic amenities, including campsites, hookups, and picnic tables.

Tours and Rentals

Photo Credit: bigbear.com

Also on the western shoreline is Epic Adventure Center for year-round water-based enjoyment. The center offers Bear Lake Boat Tours for a leisurely tour of the beautiful Bear Lake. The center also provides personal watercraft rentals and water skiing lessons in the summer. In the winter, park goers can rent snowmobiles and ATVs for outdoor snow-filled fun.

Rendezvous Beach Rentals are available for beach equipment rentals, including jet skis, kayaks, paddle boats, wakeboards, UTVs, and bicycles.

Enjoy Your Time at Bear Lake State Park

Bear Lake State Park, high in the Rocky Mountains, is the perfect location to spend time with family or for a few days of solo relaxation any time of the year.