A Short History of Bear Lake
Water’s Edge Resort sits on the western side of historic Bear Lake, just off Highway 89 near the Utah State Marina.
Often called the “Caribbean of the Rockies” for its legendary turquoise waters, Bear Lake is a 109-mile natural freshwater lake on the Idaho-Utah border. The breathtaking color is created by the reflection of calcium carbonate deposits that are suspended in the lake.
More than 250,000 years old, Bear Lake has played a rich part in American history. It was originally discovered in 1819 by Donald Mackenzie, an explorer for the North West Fur Company. Mountain men, trappers and American Indians from several different tribes often gathered at the lake to trade goods. Hundreds of thousands of pioneers passed by Bear Lake as they traveled the Oregon Trail, which ran north and east of the lake. Bear Lake was settled in 1863 when a group of Mormon pioneers arrived in the valley, saw the turquoise waters and decided there was no better place to call their home.
Today, Bear Lake is a beloved vacation spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. It’s home to two state parks, several marinas and beaches, a wildlife refuge and much more.
The Venue for All Kinds of Fun
Bear Lake is a year-round destination for fishing, boating, hiking, biking, golfing, skiing, snowmobiling and more. It’s home to several marathons, triathlons, and cycling events throughout the year, and it provides the perfect backdrop for quick weekend getaways and family reunions.
A Convenient Getaway
Water’s Edge Resort at Bear Lake is located:
- 2½ hours north of Salt Lake City, UT
- 2½ hours south of Jackson, WY
- 2 hours south of Pocatello, ID
Explore Garden City
Water’s Edge Resort is located in Garden City, a Utah town that’s famous for its fresh raspberry shakes and annual summer Raspberry Days Festival. Garden City has places to enjoy golfing, go-karts, family-friendly restaurants, the Pickleville Playhouse and more.
