Bear Lake, Utah, often referred to as the "Caribbean of the Rockies" due to its crystal-clear, turquoise waters, is a fantastic family vacation spot. Best of all, you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy its beauty and all it has to offer. From outdoor adventures to historical explorations, there are plenty of free or affordable activities that can make your family trip both memorable and budget-friendly.
Here’s a guide to the best low-cost and free activities to enjoy during your stay at Bear Lake.
1. Explore Local Hiking Trails or a Cave
Bear Lake offers stunning views and beautiful trails that are perfect for families. Here are a couple of must-visit options:- Limber Pine Nature Trail
This short, family-friendly loop (about 1.2 miles) is perfect for younger children. The trail winds through forests, offering views of Bear Lake from above and features a 2,000-year-old limber pine tree as a highlight. - Bloomington Lake Trail
This easy 1.6-mile trail leads you to the picturesque Bloomington Lake, where you can take in the beautiful scenery, have a picnic, and even try your hand at rope swinging into the lake’s cool waters. There is a small $5 per vehicle day-use fee at Bloomington Lake. - Paris Ice Cave
A natural limestone cave that stays cold year-round, creating fascinating ice formations even in summer. The cave is accessible via a short hike and is surrounded by beautiful alpine landscapes. Inside, you’ll find icy stalactites and frozen walls, but be cautious as the ice can make surfaces slippery. It’s free to visit, though the road to the cave can require a four-wheel drive during certain weather conditions.
2. Enjoy a Lakeside Picnic
With its pristine shoreline, Bear Lake is an ideal location for a family picnic. Several public beach areas are available for day use, offering plenty of room for kids to play and for parents to relax. Some of the best spots include:- Bear Lake Rest Stop
Located between Ideal Beach and Rendezvous Beach on the Southern end of Bear Lake, this rest stop has multiple covered picnic tables not far from the parking lot. You'll also find grassy areas and nice restrooms. - Garden City Park
Closer to Garden City, this park offers picnic tables, grassy areas, and direct access to the lake via a boardwalk.
3. Swim and Play at Bear Lake’s Free Beaches
While some areas of Bear Lake charge for access, there are still plenty of free areas where your family can splash around:- Find a list of 7 Free Beaches here>>
Most people are surprised to find that there are multiple free beaches available. The one's we list in our link must include a bathroom to be included. - Ideal Beach
While Ideal Beach is not free and does require a membership to enter, we offer all of our guest access at no additional cost. This beach includes 2 pools, 2 hot tubs, 2 saunas, a playground, beach, grassy area, tennis courts and more!
4. Visit Historical Sites Around Bear Lake
Bear Lake has a rich history that can be explored through various landmarks and attractions. Best of all, many of these sites are free or have minimal costs for entry.- National Oregon/California Trail Center
You can take a self-guided tour of the area’s historical significance as part of the Oregon Trail. Visit Big Hill, a significant landmark where you can imagine what it was like for early pioneers crossing through this rugged terrain. Admission is $5/children, $9/youth, $11/seniors, $12/adults. - The Paris Tabernacle
Located about 20 minutes from Garden City in Paris, Idaho, the historic Paris Tabernacle is a beautiful 19th-century structure built by early Mormon pioneers. - Butch Cassidy Museum
Located in Montpelier, Idaho, is housed in the historic Bank of Montpelier, where Butch Cassidy and his Wild Bunch gang famously robbed the bank in 1896. Admission is free.
5. Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge
For families who love wildlife, the Bear Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a great destination. Located on the north end of the lake, this refuge offers free entry and the opportunity to see various bird species, including herons, pelicans, and sandhill cranes. You can also spot other wildlife such as moose and deer.Take a leisurely walk along the trails and bring your binoculars for some birdwatching. It’s a peaceful and educational experience for both kids and adults.
6. Bear Lake Raspberry Shakes
No trip to Bear Lake is complete without trying its famous raspberry shakes! While not entirely free, they are an affordable indulgence your family will love. Head to one of the many local shake shops in Garden City, such as LeBeau’s or Zipz, to cool off with this sweet treat after a day of outdoor fun. Off-season, you can still find raspberry shakes at the Chevron.7. Visit a Park
Garden City has two local parks perfect to stop for a picnic or let the kids run free. The parks are open to the public at no cost, making them a budget-friendly option for a relaxing day out amidst Bear Lake’s natural beauty.
- Heritage Park
Includes a fishing pond, pickleball courts, playground and future splash pad.
- Garden City Park
Has a playground, large grassy field and a boardwalk that leads to the beach.
8. Attend Local Events and Festivals
Bear Lake hosts various events throughout the year, many of which are free or low-cost. Some of the most popular include:- Bear Lake Monster Winterfest (January 24-25, 2025)
If you’re visiting in the winter, don’t miss the Bear Lake Monster Winterfest. It’s filled with family-friendly activities like the Monster Plunge (a cold dip in Bear Lake) and a cardboard regatta. Many events are free or have a low entry fee, making it a great way to enjoy winter fun on a budget - Bear Lake Raspberry Days Festival (August 1-2, 2025)
This annual celebration features parades, live music, craft fairs, and plenty of activities for kids, all revolving around the region’s famous raspberries. Entry to many parts of the festival is free, and it’s a great way to experience the local culture.
9. Drive the Bear Lake Scenic Byway
For a relaxing family outing, take a drive along the Bear Lake Scenic Byway. This route offers incredible views of Bear Lake and the surrounding mountains. There are plenty of scenic pullouts where you can stop for photos, stretch your legs, or enjoy a quick snack. The best part? It’s entirely free and offers an opportunity to see the beauty of the area from a different perspective.10. Bear Lake State Park Visitor Center
Stop by the Bear Lake State Park Visitor Center for a free, educational experience. You'll also find souvenirs, gifts and free events.Looking for a place to stay and make the most of your Bear Lake trip? Be sure to check out the Bear Lake Monster House! Summer 2025 dates available now.