Utah's Shade of Caribbean Blue

Would you believe me if I told you there's a place in Utah with Caribbean blue water, miles of sandy beaches, and all the activities you'd expect to find on a tropical getaway?  You're about to be tested...there is a place in Utah with Caribbean blue water, miles of sandy beaches, and all the activities you'd expect to find on a tropical getaway!

Photo source:Bearlakechamber.com

Bear Lake

Most people driving to Bear Lake for the first time will enter through the small town of Garden City after driving through picturesque Logan Canyon.  If you're waiting for an "oooooh,  aaahhhhhh" moment, you're guaranteed to have one as you emerge from the wooded mountains and see the turquoise lake sprawling down below.  The awe and wonder will stick with you the entire time you're there and then follow after you when it's time to go.

Photo source:library.byways.org

There are few things in the world I find more peaceful than being in a calm body of water and peering down through crystal clear water to the floor below.  That's what you'll find as you get out on the water in Bear Lake.  And there are handfuls of ways to get yourself out there.  As you drive around the lake you'll find a number of sandy beaches to choose from.  Businesses in the area will rent you any version of watercraft you can dream of.  My first (and last) attempt at water-skiing was from a rented boat in the Bear Lake, and the only time I've ridden a jetski outside of a tropical vacation destination also happened right there at Bear Lake.  Wouldn't it be fun this weekend to sail away from the shore on a paddleboat or with a water trampoline in tow?  Or just soak in the Utah summer sun while splashing around in the aquamarine hued water closer to shore...

Of course, at some point you will probably need to come in off the water.  The Bear Lake area is full of other activities to keep you entertained for a weekend or an extended stay.  There is great hiking and biking nearby.   For a special treat head to the northern end of the lake for a visit to the Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge and make sure to visit in August or September when fresh raspberries are in abundance.

Directions and Information:

Bear Lake is located 2.5 hours northeast of Salt Lake City straddles the Utah/Idaho border.  More information can be found at BearLake.com, BearLake.org, and the website for Garden City, UT.

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