Welcome to Bear Lake
Discover the ultimate mountain escape at Bear Lake, Utah and Idaho, the iconic 'Caribbean of the Rockies.' Renowned for its vibrant turquoise-blue water and world famous raspberry shakes,
Bear Lake is the premier destination for families and adventure seekers alike. Whether you are looking for the best things to do at Bear Lake, top rated local restaurants, or the perfect beach for swimming and boating, our guide has you covered. As long time residents of Garden City, we created VisitBearLake.org to provide insider tips and the most up-to-date information for your next high-mountain getaway.
Quick Facts About Bear Lake
How Deep is Bear Lake?
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At it's deepest point Bear Lake is 208 feet deep.
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It has an average depth of 94 feet.
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On the East side of the lake is where you will find the deepest and steepest parts of the lake.
Why is Bear Lake Water So Blue?
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The "Caribbean of the Rockies": Bear Lake is world-famous for its intense turquoise-blue color, a unique natural phenomenon that has earned it a nickname shared with tropical island destinations.
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Natural Mineral Suspension: This vibrant hue is caused by high concentrations of calcium carbonate (limestone) particles suspended in the water.
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Light Reflection: These microscopic white minerals reflect the sunlight and the blue of the sky back to the surface, creating the stunning, crystal-clear blue water that makes the lake so iconic.
What is Bear Lake's Water Temperature?
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Summer Peak: During the peak summer season, especially in July, Bear Lake's surface water temperature typically ranges from 68 to 72 degrees, making it ideal for swimming and boating.
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Winter Conditions: In the winter, temperatures drop to between 35 to 40 degrees. Due to its depth and size, the lake only completely freezes over about 70% of the time.
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Year-Round Prep: Because of the high elevation (5,924 ft), water temperatures remain crisp; we always recommend checking the local Bear Lake weather forecast before heading out on the water.
What is Bear Lake's Water Temperature?
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A Border-Straddling Treasure: Bear Lake is a large freshwater lake that is split almost exactly in half by the Utah-Idaho border. The southern half of the lake is in Rich County, Utah, while the northern half is in Bear Lake County, Idaho.
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Garden City & St. Charles: The most popular "hub" on the Utah side is Garden City (famous for raspberry shakes), while the Idaho side is home to the stunning North Beach State Park and the town of St. Charles.
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Easy Access: No matter which state you stay in, the entire shoreline is easily accessible via a scenic drive around the lake, making it easy to enjoy the best of both Bear Lake, Utah and Bear Lake, Idaho.
From its famous turquoise waters to its world class boating and swimming, Bear Lake is the ultimate weekend destination for friends and family. Ideally located on the Utah-Idaho border, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor adventure. Plan your visit today and discover all the amazing things to do at the 'Caribbean of the Rockies.
