With National Parks like Zion, Bryce Canyon, and the Arches, salt flats, and the Great Salt Lake to snowcapped mountains and beautiful blue lakes, Utah has countless natural areas to explore. If you’re looking to live amongst Utah’s nature, there are plenty of lake towns to consider buying a home in.
At Redfin, we’ve collected a list of 7 popular lakes in Utah to live on this year. From the tranquil shores of Bear Lake in Garden City to the expansive vistas of the Great Salt Lake in Salt Lake City, read on to find the right lake town in Utah for you.
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The first spot on our list of lakes in Utah to live on is Bear Lake. Often referred to as the “Caribbean of the Rockies” for its intense turquoise-blue water, Bear Lake is on the border between Utah and Idaho. This natural freshwater lake is an amazing spot for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. The surrounding area of Garden City is a quaint town with a population of just 600. Nearby, visitors and residents can explore Logan Canyon, a scenic byway that offers access to hiking trails, limestone cliffs, and dense forests. Bear Lake is also famous for its Raspberry Days festival, celebrating the harvest of raspberries with a parade, rodeo, and fireworks.
Located northeast of Provo, Deer Creek Reservoir is a great lake for water sports enthusiasts, offering windsurfing, boating, and fishing. The reservoir is surrounded by the stunning views of Mount Timpanogos and is a short drive from the city of Charleston, where the community is small but welcoming, with a population of just about 450. The area is also a gateway to the Wasatch Mountain State Park, providing ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the outdoors. The nearby Heber Valley Railroad offers scenic train rides, a unique way to experience the landscapes around Deer Creek Reservoir.
Flaming Gorge Reservoir has deep blue waters and spectacular scenery, including the red cliffs that give the gorge its name. Located near the small town of Dutch John, with a population of only 150, this area offers a secluded retreat for those looking for a remote area. The reservoir is a popular spot for fishing, boasting a variety of fish species such as trout and bass. The surrounding Ashley National Forest provides trails for hiking and biking, while the Green River below the dam is famous for rafting. If you’re looking for a lake to live on in Utah that showcases the state’s unique landscapes, be sure to check out Flaming Gorge Reservoir.
The Great Salt Lake, located near the bustling city of Salt Lake City, is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. Its unique ecosystem supports a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds at the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge. The lake is also a popular spot for sailing, kayaking, and exploring the nearby Antelope Island State Park, where you can hike, bike, and spot bison. The city itself offers countless attractions such as the Utah Museum of Fine Arts and the Natural History Museum of Utah, making it an ideal location for those who appreciate both nature and urban life.
Jordanelle Reservoir is an awesome spot for outdoor recreation, located just outside the famous ski town of Park City. The reservoir offers a plethora of activities, including fishing, boating, and paddleboarding, against the backdrop of the beautiful Wasatch Mountains. Park City itself is famous for its world-class ski resorts, Sundance Film Festival, and historic Main Street filled with shops and gourmet restaurants. The area around Jordanelle Reservoir also features trails for hiking and mountain biking, like Ross Creek Trail and SkyRidge North Trailhead, making it a perfect spot for those seeking adventure.
Pineview Reservoir, nestled in the scenic Ogden Valley, is surrounded by the Wasatch Range. This picturesque lake offers clear waters for boating, fishing, and swimming. You can also find beaches like Windsurfer Beach, marinas, and campgrounds. The small town of Huntsville has a peaceful atmosphere, with its charming streets, local cafes, and landmarks. The nearby Snowbasin and Powder Mountain ski resorts offer winter sports, while the summer months bring opportunities for hiking and mountain biking in the surrounding forests. Pineview Reservoir is a gem for those seeking a tranquil lifestyle with easy access to outdoor recreation.
The last lake in Utah to make our list is Utah Lake, located near Provo. Utah Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the US and is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and bird watching. There are several access points and marinas around its perimeter, like Utah Lake State Park, Lindon Marina, and Lincoln Beach. Provo has plenty of attractions with museums like the Provo Pioneer Village, music venues like the Velour Live Music Gallery, and the Covey Center for the Arts. Utah Lake’s proximity to Provo gives residents a great blend of outdoor activities and urban amenities.
Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the lakes in Utah. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during April 2024. Average rental data from Rent.com April 2024. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
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Alison is part of the content marketing team and enjoys writing about housing affordability and home interior design ideas. Her dream home is a cottage-style house with a chef’s kitchen and a cozy room to store and play vinyl records.
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