The Best of Bear Lake

A Two-Day Guide to the “Caribbean of the Rockies”

Bear Lake offers a vibrant escape with its stunning turquoise waters and an array of activities. This two-day itinerary takes you from tranquil sunrises and thrilling water sports to scenic bike rides and a round of golf, all while indulging in Northern Utah's famous raspberry treats.

Catching your first glimpse Bear Lake of as you wind through Logan Canyon is unforgettable. Below you, an endless stretch of vivid turquoise-blue water shimmers in the sun — earning Bear Lake its nickname, the “Caribbean of the Rockies”.

Whether you're into boating, camping, biking, or just hanging at the beach, Bear Lake is a must-visit destination for both adventure seekers and those looking for a relaxing getaway. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and paddling, offering a refreshing escape on a warm summer day. And before you leave, be sure to grab a famous Bear Lake raspberry shake, a local favorite you won’t want to miss.

Day 1

From Sunrise to Sunset: Bikes, Farmers Market & Lake Fun

6 Miles

If you're an early riser, catching the sunrise over Bear Lake is an unforgettable experience: calm, breathtaking, and the perfect start before the day’s energy kicks in. Find a quiet spot on one of the many beaches, like Rendezvous Beach on the south shore or the beach at the end of the Garden City boardwalk or drive up to a nearby lookout point such as the Bear Lake Overlook SR-89 rest area.

Garden City is the heart of Bear Lake, offering the most dining options and activities in the area. For breakfast, stop at Crepes and Coffee, noted for its delicious sweet and savory crepes and specialty coffee drinks. While there's plenty of seating indoors, the best seats are out on the patio, where you can soak in views of the lake and watch the lively buzz of cars and passersby.

Next, rent an e-bike from Firefly Power Bike Rentals on the main drag and hit the paved path that runs along the west side of Bear Lake. The path is ideal for shorter, leisurely rides and passes a variety of shops, beach access points and restaurants. For ambitious riders, the full loop around Bear Lake is about 50 miles. (Read: Cycling in Bear Lake and Logan Canyon)

If you find yourself at Bear Lake on a Friday, head to the Bear Lake Farmers Market at Conestoga Ranch which takes place every Friday from the end of May through mid-September. The market offers a lively atmosphere filled with local vendors selling fresh bread, honey, cheese, handmade jewelry and more. Enjoy delicious food and live music on a summer afternoon.

No trip to Bear Lake is complete without spending time on the water. Whether you prefer boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply swimming, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the lake. Nearby marinas like Bear Lake Rentals and Rendezvous Beach Rentals offer everything you need, from powerboats and jet skis to tubes and paddleboards. (Read: Paddling the Caribbean-Blue Waters of Bear Lake)

Where to Stay: Sun Outdoors sits along the scenic south shore of Bear Lake, just minutes from Garden City. This lakeside resort offers a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler, including full hookup RV sites, cozy cabins and comfortable hotel-style suites. Guests enjoy access to a large private beach and convenient rentals for boats, jet skis and paddleboards, making it easy to dive into the lake’s adventures.

Other lodging options around Bear Lake include Airbnb rentals, popular campgrounds like South Eden Campground and Cisco Beach Campground at Bear Lake State Park or glamorous camping (glamping) at Conestoga Ranch.

Day 2

Coffee, Golf & A Taste of Bear Lake’s Famous Raspberries

2 Miles

Bear Lake Golf Course

Start your second day by grabbing a coffee and a cinnamon roll at Moosebuns, a casual walk-up spot in the center of town. Then, head to Bear Lake Golf Course, only an 8-minute drive down the road in Garden City.

Bear Lake Golf Course is a scenic 9-hole layout that’s perfect for both seasoned golfers and beginners. New players can warm up on the driving range, launching tee shots toward the distant lake, while more experienced golfers will enjoy the full course challenge. Stretching 3,376 yards from the back tees with a par of 36, the course opens with a memorable first hole where you tee off toward a fairway nestled below. Tree-lined with aspens and evergreens, the course feels like a true alpine escape and the panoramic lake views make it one of a kind. Additional amenities include a putting green, pro shop and café. Green fees are affordable, with carts and club rentals available.

Ask anyone in Bear Lake what you have to try, and the answer will always be the same: a raspberry shake. Thanks to the region’s ideal climate and soil, Bear Lake raspberries are famously sweet and juicy. So much so that the town celebrates them every August during Raspberry Days, an annual festival dedicated to the beloved berry. As for where to get the best shake, locals have their favorites, but you really can’t go wrong. Popular spots like Hometown Drive-In and Zipz are always buzzing with visitors. Before you leave, be sure to grab a jar of raspberry jam or syrup as a sweet souvenir of your trip.

Evening falls over Bear Lake, often called the "Caribbean of the Rockies".

Photo: Jeremiah Watt

Kayaks are another tried-and-true favorite for getting out on the water.

Photo: Jeremiah Watt

The famous turquoise blue of Bear Lake is even more mesmerizing from a paddleboard.

Photo: Jeremiah Watt

You'll find an array of rental shops around the lake, offering both motorized and non-motorized options.

Photo: Jeremiah Watt

After a day spent out on the water, the towns around Bear Lake offer plenty of opportunities to unwind.

Photo: Jeremiah Watt

From full hookup RV sites to cozy cabins and glamping, Bear Lake offers something for every adventurer. With beaches just steps away and campfire s'mores under the vast sky, it's the perfect escape.

Photo: Jeremiah Watt