Lakes in Utah: A Comprehensive Guide to the Best Spots for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Utah is known for its vast and diverse natural beauty, from its snow-capped mountains to its red rock canyons. One of the state's most stunning natural features is its collection of lakes. Despite being located in a desert landscape, Utah is home to numerous lakes that offer a variety of recreation opportunities.

From the famous Great Salt Lake to the lesser-known-but-no-less-beautiful Bear Lake, Utah's lakes offer a chance to escape the heat and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you're looking to fish, boat, swim, or simply relax on the shore, Utah's lakes have something to offer everyone. Additionally, many of these lakes are surrounded by breathtaking scenery, making them the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Overall, Utah's lakes are a hidden gem in the state's already impressive collection of natural wonders. Whether you're a local or a visitor, taking the time to explore these lakes is a must-do activity for anyone looking to experience the best that Utah has to offer.

Top Lakes in Utah

Utah is a state that is blessed with some of the most beautiful lakes in the country. Whether you are looking for a place to fish, boat, hike, camp, canoe, kayak, water ski, or simply relax on the shoreline, Utah has something for everyone. Here are some of the top lakes in Utah that you should definitely check out:

Bear Lake

Bear Lake is a freshwater lake that is located on the border between Utah and Idaho. It is often referred to as the "Caribbean of the Rockies" because of its turquoise-blue color. Bear Lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, hiking, camping, and mountain biking. Some of the fish species that you can find in Bear Lake include cutthroat trout, lake trout, and whitefish.

Flaming Gorge Reservoir

Flaming Gorge Reservoir is a large reservoir that is located in the northeastern part of Utah. It is a popular destination for fishing, boating, hiking, camping, and water skiing. Flaming Gorge Reservoir is home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout, kokanee salmon, and smallmouth bass.

Lake Powell

Lake Powell is a large reservoir that is located in the southern part of Utah. It is a popular destination for fishing, boating, hiking, camping, canoeing, kayaking, and water skiing. Lake Powell is home to a variety of fish species, including striped bass, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, and catfish.

Utah Lake

Utah Lake is a large freshwater lake that is located in the central part of Utah. It is a popular destination for fishing, boating, hiking, camping, and birdwatching. Utah Lake is home to a variety of fish species, including channel catfish, walleye, white bass, and black crappie.

Strawberry Reservoir

Strawberry Reservoir is a large freshwater lake that is located in the northeastern part of Utah. It is a popular destination for fishing, boating, hiking, camping, and mountain biking. Strawberry Reservoir is home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, kokanee salmon, and smallmouth bass.

Mirror Lake

Mirror Lake is a small freshwater lake that is located in the northeastern part of Utah. It is a popular destination for fishing, hiking, camping, and canoeing. Mirror Lake is home to a variety of fish species, including brook trout, cutthroat trout, and rainbow trout.

In conclusion, Utah has some of the most beautiful lakes in the country, and each of these lakes offers a unique experience to visitors. Whether you are looking for a place to fish, boat, hike, camp, or simply relax on the shoreline, Utah has something for everyone.

Other Notable Lakes

Utah is known for its beautiful and diverse lakes, and there are several other notable lakes in the state that are worth exploring. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Great Salt Lake

The Great Salt Lake is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, covering an area of 1,700 square miles. It is a unique and fascinating natural wonder, with a salt content that is eight times saltier than the ocean. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including brine shrimp and migrating birds.

While swimming is not recommended due to the high salt content, the Great Salt Lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and hiking. The lake has several marinas and boat ramps, making it easy to access. Visitors can also hike along the shoreline, which offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Yuba Lake

Yuba Lake is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and camping. The lake is located in central Utah and covers an area of 22 square miles. It is home to a variety of fish, including rainbow trout, walleye, and largemouth bass.

In addition to fishing and boating, Yuba Lake also offers opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and water skiing. The lake has several campgrounds and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a weekend getaway.

Navajo Lake

Navajo Lake is a freshwater lake located in the Dixie National Forest in southern Utah. The lake is known for its clear blue water and is a popular destination for fishing and canoeing. It is home to several species of fish, including rainbow trout and brook trout.

Navajo Lake also offers opportunities for hiking and camping. The lake has several campgrounds and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a family vacation.

Otter Creek

Otter Creek is a popular destination for fishing and boating. The lake is located in central Utah and covers an area of 2.5 square miles. It is home to several species of fish, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and largemouth bass.

In addition to fishing and boating, Otter Creek also offers opportunities for hiking and camping. The lake has several campgrounds and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a weekend getaway.

Starvation Reservoir

Starvation Reservoir is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and camping. The lake is located in northeastern Utah and covers an area of 3,500 acres. It is home to several species of fish, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and smallmouth bass.

In addition to fishing and boating, Starvation Reservoir also offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and water skiing. The lake has several campgrounds and picnic areas, making it a great spot for a family vacation.

Lakes in Southern Utah

Southern Utah is home to some of the most beautiful lakes in the state. The region offers a variety of recreational activities such as fishing, boating, hiking, camping, canoeing, kayaking, water skiing, and mountain biking. Here are some of the most popular lakes in Southern Utah:

Sand Hollow Reservoir

Sand Hollow Reservoir is a 1,322-acre freshwater lake located near Hurricane, Utah. It is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and camping. The lake has a maximum depth of 80 feet and a shoreline of 15 miles. The reservoir is known for its clear blue waters and red sandstone cliffs that surround it.

Fishing is a popular activity at Sand Hollow Reservoir, and visitors can catch a variety of fish such as bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish. The lake is also great for boating, water skiing, and wakeboarding. Visitors can rent boats, jet skis, and other watercraft at the marina.

For those who prefer to stay on land, Sand Hollow State Park offers hiking trails, mountain biking trails, and camping sites. The park has 20 primitive camping sites and 50 improved camping sites with electricity and water hookups.

In conclusion, Sand Hollow Reservoir is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun and relaxing time in Southern Utah. Whether you're into fishing, boating, hiking, or camping, this lake has something for everyone.

Fishing in Utah Lakes

Utah is a great destination for fishing enthusiasts, with its numerous lakes, rivers, and streams providing ample opportunities for fishing. Some of the popular fish species found in Utah lakes include trout, perch, and salmon.

Trout Fishing in Utah Lakes

Trout fishing is particularly popular in Utah, with the state being home to several lakes that are stocked with trout. Fish Lake, located near Richfield, is one of the best places to fish for trout in Utah. Other popular trout fishing lakes include Strawberry Reservoir, Flaming Gorge Reservoir, and Bear Lake.

Perch Fishing in Utah Lakes

Perch fishing is another popular activity in Utah, with several lakes in the state being home to yellow perch. Utah Lake is one of the best places to fish for perch in the state, with Lincoln Beach being a well-known spot for catching perch.

Salmon Fishing in Utah Lakes

Salmon fishing is also possible in Utah, with the state being home to Kokanee salmon. Strawberry Reservoir is one of the best places to fish for Kokanee salmon in Utah.

Fishing Regulations in Utah

It is important to note that fishing regulations in Utah vary depending on the location and species of fish. Before embarking on a fishing trip in Utah, it is important to check the fishing regulations for the specific location and species of fish.

Popular Utah Rivers for Fishing

Utah is also home to several rivers that offer great fishing opportunities. The Green River, Provo River, Bear River, Colorado River, Fremont River, Sevier River, and San Pitch River are some of the popular rivers for fishing in Utah.

Overall, Utah is a great destination for fishing enthusiasts, with its numerous lakes, rivers, and streams providing ample opportunities for fishing.

Utah Lake and Provo River

Utah Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Utah and is located in Utah Valley, surrounded by the Provo-Orem metropolitan area. The lake offers a variety of recreational activities such as fishing, boating, swimming, paddleboarding, and more. The lake has an average water temperature of 75 degrees, making it an excellent spot for water activities.

Fishing is a popular activity at Utah Lake, with access to channel catfish, walleye, white bass, black bass, and several species of panfish. The lake's only river outlet, the Jordan River, is a tributary of the Great Salt Lake. The state park provides major access to the 96,600-acre lake, with a fishing pier, boat ramp, and fish cleaning station.

Boating is also a popular activity at Utah Lake, with a marina and boat ramp available at the state park. Visitors can bring their own boats or rent them from the marina. The lake is also a great spot for water skiing, canoeing, and kayaking, with several rental options available.

The Provo River, which enters the lake, is a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking. The lower Provo River offers a scenic and peaceful float trip, with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and wildlife. The park also offers very nice campsites and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.

Hiking and mountain biking are other popular activities at Utah Lake State Park, with several trails available for visitors to explore. The shoreline of the lake is also a great spot for picnicking and relaxing. With so many recreational opportunities available, Utah Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for outdoor fun in Utah.

Uinta Mountains and Wasatch-Cache National Forest

The Uinta Mountains and Wasatch-Cache National Forest are home to some of the most beautiful lakes in Utah. The area is known for its stunning mountain scenery, crystal clear water, and diverse wildlife. The region is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, camping, canoeing, kayaking, water skiing, mountain biking, and more.

Fish Lake

Fish Lake is a popular destination for anglers looking to catch trout, bass, and other fish species. The lake is surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery and offers several camping and picnic areas for visitors. The lake is also a great spot for boating, canoeing, and kayaking.

Mirror Lake Scenic Byway

The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway is a beautiful drive that takes visitors through the heart of the Uinta Mountains. The road winds through forests, past streams and meadows, and over mountain passes. The byway offers access to several lakes, including Mirror Lake, which is a popular spot for fishing, camping, and hiking.

Christmas Meadows

Christmas Meadows is a beautiful area located in the Uinta Mountains. The meadow is surrounded by forests and offers access to several lakes, including the popular Christmas Meadows Lake. The lake is a great spot for fishing, hiking, and camping.

Silver Lake

Silver Lake is a beautiful mountain lake located in the Wasatch-Cache National Forest. The lake is surrounded by forests and offers several hiking trails for visitors. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and camping.

Tony Grove Lake

Tony Grove Lake is a beautiful mountain lake located in the Uinta Mountains. The lake is surrounded by forests and offers several hiking trails for visitors. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and camping.

In conclusion, the Uinta Mountains and Wasatch-Cache National Forest offer some of the most beautiful lakes in Utah. The region is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, camping, canoeing, kayaking, water skiing, mountain biking, and more. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day on the water or an adventure in the mountains, this region has something for everyone.

Other Utah Lakes and Reservoirs

Utah is known for its beautiful lakes and reservoirs, and there are many other options for those looking to explore the state's natural beauty. Here are some of the other popular Utah lakes and reservoirs.

Sevier Lake

Sevier Lake is a shallow, saline lake located in western Utah. While it is not a popular spot for swimming or boating due to its high salt content, it is a popular destination for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. The lake is home to a variety of bird species, including pelicans, avocets, and sandpipers. Visitors can also hike around the lake and enjoy the unique landscape.

Utah Valley

Utah Valley is home to several beautiful lakes and reservoirs, including Utah Lake, Deer Creek Reservoir, and Jordanelle Reservoir. These lakes offer a variety of recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, and camping. Utah Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Utah and is a popular spot for water skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Deer Creek Reservoir is known for its fishing, and visitors can catch rainbow trout, brown trout, and smallmouth bass. Jordanelle Reservoir is a popular spot for boating and watersports.

Mytoge Mountains

The Mytoge Mountains are home to several beautiful lakes, including Mirror Lake and Trial Lake. These lakes offer a variety of recreational opportunities, including fishing, hiking, and camping. Mirror Lake is a popular spot for fishing, and visitors can catch brook trout, cutthroat trout, and rainbow trout. The lake is also surrounded by hiking trails, making it a great spot for a day trip or overnight camping trip. Trial Lake is another popular spot for fishing, and visitors can catch rainbow trout and brook trout.

Hurricane

Sand Hollow Reservoir is located in Hurricane, Utah, and is a popular spot for watersports, including boating, water skiing, and wakeboarding. The reservoir is surrounded by red rock cliffs, making it a beautiful spot for a day trip or weekend getaway. Visitors can also enjoy hiking and mountain biking in the surrounding area.

Overall, Utah's lakes and reservoirs offer a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you are looking to fish, boat, hike, or simply relax on the shoreline, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Utah's beautiful freshwater lakes.

Utah is home to some of the most stunning lakes in the United States, offering visitors a wide range of natural beauty and recreation opportunities. From the iconic Great Salt Lake to the lesser-known Bear Lake, these bodies of water provide a diverse range of experiences for visitors of all ages and interests.

Despite the state's reputation for aridity and drought, many of Utah's lakes are thriving and offer abundant recreational opportunities, including swimming, boating, fishing, and camping. Visitors to Utah's lakes can enjoy a variety of activities, from hiking and biking to birdwatching and stargazing.

In addition to providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, Utah's lakes are also important ecological resources, supporting a wide range of plant and animal life. Many of these lakes are also important sources of drinking water for local communities.

While drought conditions have impacted some of Utah's lakes in recent years, the state's commitment to conservation and sustainability has helped to mitigate some of the effects of these dry spells. By working together to protect these valuable resources, we can ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that Utah's lakes have to offer.

Overall, Utah's lakes are a testament to the state's unique natural beauty and the importance of preserving our natural resources for future generations. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax or an adventurous outdoor experience, Utah's lakes are sure to offer something for everyone.