Bear Lake is well known for its stunning turquoise waters and famous raspberry shakes, but beyond the usual attractions, Garden City hides some incredible lesser-known spots. If you are looking for unique experiences, these hidden gems are sure to make your Bear Lake adventure unforgettable:
1. Discover 3 Mysterious Caves
For those who love adventure and exploration, the caves around Bear Lake offer an exciting journey underground. While Minnetonka Cave in Idaho is the most famous, there are two smaller, less-explored caves. Explore these 3 nearby caves:
1. Minnetonka: located in St. Charles Canyon, Idaho, just a short drive from Bear Lake, is one of the largest limestone caves in the state. There is a fee to take a 90 minute tour of this cave and it is only open from Memorial Day thru Labor Day.
2. Paris Ice Cave: Located in Paris Canyon, Idaho, the Paris Ice Cave is a unique natural wonder where ice can be found year-round, even in the heat of summer. This limestone cave maintains freezing temperatures due to its shape and airflow, preserving stunning ice formations inside.
3. Hobbit Caves: Tucked away in Logan Canyon, Utah, Hobbit Cave is a small, whimsical rock alcove with a rounded entrance, giving it a fairy-tale feel. A short, easy walk leads to this shady, scenic spot
2. Explore Rick Springs
A fascinating stop along Logan Canyon, Rick Springs appears as a small, bubbling water source but actually connects to an underground river system. The spring’s crystal-clear waters and the mystery surrounding its source make it a must-see for nature lovers.
3. Snap Photos with Fun Murals
These fun, locally painted artworks provide the perfect backdrop for unique and colorful photo opportunities. You can find three murals at the following locations:
-Garden City Park Mural: This colorful "Smile you're in Bear Lake" mural is painted near the bathrooms at the entrance of Garden City Park (390 S Bear Lake Blvd)
-The other two murals are right next to each other behind the Blue Clothing Company, near the parking at 58 N Bear Lake Blvd in Garden City.
4. Feed the Fish at the Marina
A simple yet entertaining activity, feeding the fish at Bear Lake’s marina is a fun experience for all ages. The local fish eagerly gather near the docks, providing a close-up look at the lake’s fish. Fish food is available for purchase right on the dock for $1 a bag. This is a fun, off-the-beaten-path adventure, perfect for the littlest adventurers.
5. Visit the Quirky Shoe House
One of Bear Lake's most unusual attractions is the Shoe House, a whimsical, shoe-shaped building with a detailed fairy tale scene painted on the outside. Whether you're intrigued by its origins or just love offbeat roadside stops, this is a unique landmark to see. The shoe house is located between East Beach and North Beach as you drive along Eastshore Rd. You will be able to view the shoe house from the side of the road.
6. Hunt for the Three Lighthouses
While Bear Lake is far from the ocean, it has not one but three lighthouses! These unexpected structures stand as charming landmarks around the lake, adding a coastal touch to the mountain scenery. Each lighthouse has its own unique design, making them fun to seek out on your travels. Here's where you can find them:
1. Lighthouse Point: is a yellow lighthouse located just north of Pickleville playhouse and just down the street from the Bear Lake Monster House.
2. Bear Lake Aquatic Camp Lighthouse: is the closet lighthouse to the actual lake and located in Laketown at the Boy Scouts camp.
3. Harbor Village Lighthouse: is located near the Marina at Sunrise Resort & Event Center.
7. Relax at Bear Lake Hot Springs
Most people are surprised to find out that Bear Lake has a hot spring right of the beach on the north side. Check out this soothing retreat with naturally heated mineral water. Whether you're looking to warm up after a day on the water or just want to relax in a scenic setting, this hidden gem is a must-visit. Epic Rentals runs the hot springs and also has a water sports rental store on-site on the beach. There are two hot mineral pools and the temperature in each one is kept at 103℉. Admission gets you access to a stretch of beach as well as the hot springs. Open year-round, however, during off season you will need to make a reservation by calling: 435-946-3742
8. Search for the Legendary Bear Lake Monster
Local legend tells of a mysterious creature lurking in the depths of Bear Lake, with stories dating back to the 1800s. Tales of a long, serpent-like beast surfacing now and then have intrigued visitors for generations. Whether you're a believer or just love a good mystery, keeping an eye on the water adds a thrilling twist to your trip. And for the ultimate monster-hunting experience, stay at our place, The Bear Lake Monster House—the only spot in Bear Lake that fully embraces and highlights the legend of the Bear Lake Monster!
Garden City has plenty of surprises waiting for those willing to venture off the beaten path!