Road trip ready: How Bear Lake became the go-to destination for Western U.S. travelers

Whether you are chasing pristine beaches, fresh raspberry shakes, or endless water sports, this sponsored guide—brought to you in partnership with Bear Lake —uncovers everything you need to plan the ultimate getaway.

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There’s nothing quite like the thrill of hopping in the car with your favorite snacks in tow and heading out for a road trip adventure. Utah, Idaho and other western state residents are particularly lucky because they don’t have to travel cross-country to reach the perfect road trip destination: Bear Lake.

Known for its pristine turquoise blue waters that earned it the nickname “The Caribbean of the Rockies,” Bear Lake isn’t just a pretty place to pass the time. Visitors will find plenty of ways to stay busy, whether they’re looking for excitement, relaxation or a little bit of both.

Naturally, the lake itself is a major draw and worth the trip alone. You could easily spend hours boating, paddleboarding, swimming or just lounging on the shore. But there are plenty of bonus activities in the surrounding area that should make this a favorite among travelers of all ages.

It’s a combination that continues to attract more people every year. In just the past eight years, Bear Lake State Park has reported a 123% increase in visitors, with many families returning year after year to create new memories.

If you’re looking for a nearby, driveable destination that checks all of the boxes for year-round fun, Bear Lake is an easy pick.

A rich and beautiful history

To better appreciate just how special the area is, it helps to know just a little about Bear Lake’s history. The lake itself is more than 250,000 years old and has been a defining landmark of the region for generations.

Long before boats dotted the water and summer vacations became a tradition, Native American tribes lived and traveled throughout the area. Later came European explorers, mountain men, pioneers and countless others who left their mark on the region — even the famed outlaw, Butch Cassidy. 

While visitors had been enjoying the area for decades, the 1960s and ’70s marked a period of significant tourism growth. Motels, cabins and other amenities began appearing around the lake, helping transform Bear Lake into the beloved vacation destination it is today.

Easy to reach

Its convenient location is one of Bear Lake’s major benefits. When visitors traveling from Salt Lake, Logan, Provo, Ogden, Boise, Idaho Falls and Pocatello can reach it within a few hours, that beats having to wait in long airport lines.

It’s so close to these major hubs that you can make a spontaneous day trip out of it instead of having to plan a full week off of work.

For many people, that one detail is enough to put it at the top of their vacation list. 

Something for every type of traveler

It sounds cliche to say that it’s got “something for everyone” — but that’s exactly why Bear Lake routinely attracts family reunions and large gatherings year after year. 

You don’t have to worry about teenagers staying stuck indoors on their phones or children constantly telling you that they’re bored. Step outside and you’ll find endless entertainment options for all ages right at your fingertips. 

Visitors can spend their days boating, paddleboarding, fishing, hiking, biking, exploring scenic drives, riding ATVs and enjoying local entertainment throughout the valley.

And that’s just the starting point. The important thing is that everyone can vacation together without the need for separate itineraries. 

The perfect blend of excitement and rejuvenation

In general, there are two types of travelers: those who like to pack as many things as possible into the schedule and those who prefer to take it easy. No matter which kind you are, Bear Lake will easily cater to your needs.

For those looking for a little more relaxation than adventure, you might enjoy:

• Mornings on the lake
• Slow afternoons on the beach
• Sunset views in the evening
• Bear Lake’s famous raspberry shakes 
• Local shops and businesses 

Whether your ideal getaway is packed with activities or centered around rest and relaxation, Bear Lake makes it easy to create the vacation experience that fits your style.

Summer events that will keep you coming back

If you are planning a family reunion, couples’ getaway or a solo trip to the area, you’ll definitely want to check the local events calendar to see what’s happening. Some key annual highlights in the community include:

• Raspberry Days
• Bear Lake Valley Farmers Market
• Rich County Fair
• Pickleville Playhouse performances 
• Local rodeos
• Arts/crafts events
• Live music
• Community celebrations

The list is long, so check out the full calendar here. 

Come and stay awhile

While you can certainly make a day trip out of it, many visitors quickly learn that one day just isn’t enough to fit everything in that they want to do. Get the most out of your visit by booking a stay at one of the many local vacation rentals, cabins, RV parks, campground or resorts.

Plan your Bear Lake visit

Just because the secret’s out about Bear Lake being a top spot for travel in the West, there’s still plenty of fun to go around. And if you haven’t gotten in on it yet, now might be the time to see what all the fuss is about.

To start planning your trip, visit bearlake.org today.

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This is a sponsored article brought to you by KSL News Radio in conjunction with the advertiser. The advertiser paid a fee to promote this article and may have influenced or authored the content. The views expressed in this article are those of the advertiser and do not necessarily reflect those of KSL News Radio, its parent company, or its staff.

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