Utah offers versatile natural beauty, with an array of lakes that provide fantastic recreational activities.
- Fishing
- Boating
- Water sports
- Peaceful relaxation
For adventurers and vacationers alike, Utah’s lakes offer the perfect combination of scenic beauty and outdoor fun.
Let us talk about them.
10. Lake Powell
- Surface Area: 161,000 acres
- Maximum Depth: 558 feet
- Total shoreline: 1,960 miles
- Primary Fish Species: Largemouth bass, striped bass, catfish
Located on the border between southern Utah and Arizona, Lake Powell is one of the largest and most famous lakes in the region.
Its vibrant red rock canyons and calm waters make it an ideal destination for boating, fishing, and water sports enthusiasts.
Visitors can explore the stunning Rainbow Bridge, one of the world’s largest natural arches, by boat or kayak.
The lake’s clear waters attract those seeking excitement, including houseboat rentals and pontoon boats, perfect for a relaxing day on the water.
Lake Powell is also a favorite for fishing, known for species like bass, catfish, and walleye.
Its calm, expansive surface offers perfect conditions for:
- Wakeboarding
- Waterskiing
- Tubing
9. Flaming Gorge Reservoir
- Surface Area: 42,020 acres
- Maximum Depth: 436 feet
- Shoreline: 375 miles
- Primary Fish Species: Lake trout, kokanee salmon, smallmouth bass
Flaming Gorge Reservoir, located on the Utah-Wyoming border, is a spectacular spot for boating, fishing, camping, and even scuba diving.
Its deep waters are home to lake trout, including record-breaking catches that draw anglers from all over the country.
The surrounding scenic canyons and cliffs offer dramatic views, making it a favorite for sightseers.
In addition to fishing, Flaming Gorge is a great location for all types of watercraft, from small kayaks to large houseboats.
Camping along the shoreline allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in nature, with the opportunity to hike and explore nearby trails.
8. Bear Lake
- Surface Area: 109 square miles
- Maximum Depth: 208 feet
- Shoreline: 48 miles
- Primary Fish Species: Bonneville cutthroat trout, whitefish
Known as “The Caribbean of the Rockies” for its striking turquoise waters, Bear Lake is located in northeastern Utah and extends into Idaho.
The lake’s crystal-clear waters provide excellent conditions for water sports, such as wakeboarding and jet skiing, as well as for a relaxing day on its sandy beaches.
Bear Lake is also a prime destination for fishing, offering opportunities to catch Bonneville cutthroat trout and whitefish.
The lake’s natural beauty and recreational activities make it a popular spot for families looking to enjoy the outdoors, whether for a weekend trip or a summer vacation.
7. Strawberry Reservoir
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- Surface Area: 17,164 acres
- Maximum Depth: 200 feet
- Shoreline: 136 miles
- Primary Fish Species: Rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, cutthroat trout
Strawberry Reservoir, southeast of Heber, is renowned as one of Utah’s top fishing destinations. Anglers flock to its waters to catch rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, and cutthroat trout.
With fishing being excellent year-round, including ice fishing in the winter, Strawberry offers a pleasant experience in all seasons.
Boating is also popular on the reservoir, with pontoon rentals available for a leisurely day out on the water.
The scenic backdrop of the surrounding mountains enhances the overall experience, making Strawberry Reservoir a beautiful and relaxing getaway for anyone seeking outdoor recreation.
6. Deer Creek Reservoir
- Surface Area: 2,965 acres
- Maximum Depth: 137 feet
- Shoreline: 18 miles
- Primary Fish Species: Rainbow trout, bass, perch
Located near Provo and Salt Lake City, Deer Creek Reservoir is a convenient destination for locals and tourists alike.
Surrounded by the majestic Uinta Mountains, the lake offers a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, water sports, and even zip-lining.
Deer Creek is well-known for kiteboarding and wakeboarding, thanks to its steady winds and calm waters.
Fishermen can enjoy catching species like rainbow trout, bass, and perch. Its proximity to urban centers makes it an ideal day-trip location for those seeking adventure without traveling far.
5. Utah Lake
- Surface Area: 96,900 acres
- Maximum Depth: 14 feet
- Shoreline: 75 miles
- Primary Fish Species: White bass, catfish, walleye
Utah Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Utah, is a favorite spot for fishing, boating, and birdwatching.
Located near Provo, it is easily accessible for residents of the Provo-Orem metropolitan area. The lake’s warm, shallow waters make it perfect for various water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.
Anglers can expect to catch species such as bass, catfish, and walleye, while birdwatchers can enjoy spotting bald eagles and pelicans.
Utah Lake offers plenty of shoreline for relaxing, as well as opportunities for camping and picnicking along its banks.
4. Pineview Reservoir
Nestled in northern Utah near Ogden, Pineview Reservoir is a serene lake surrounded by lush mountains. It is a hotspot for boating, water skiing, and wakeboarding, with calm waters ideal for all types of water activities.
The sandy beaches along the reservoir offer a perfect place for sunbathing and relaxation.
Pineview is also known for its fishing, particularly for tiger muskie, bass, and trout.
The scenic mountain backdrop adds to its appeal, making Pineview Reservoir a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to escape the city while enjoying outdoor fun.
- Surface Area: 2,874 acres
- Maximum Depth: 103 feet
- Shoreline: 23 miles
- Primary Fish Species: Tiger muskie, smallmouth bass, trout
3. Willard Bay Reservoir
- Surface Area: 9,900 acres
- Maximum Depth: 36 feet
- Shoreline: 20 miles
- Primary Fish Species: Walleye, catfish, wiper
Willard Bay Reservoir, located near the Great Salt Lake, is a freshwater reservoir popular for boating, jet skiing, and fishing. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise, with bald eagles and loons frequently spotted along the shores.
The lake’s sandy beaches also make it a great destination for family outings and picnics.
Anglers at Willard Bay can fish for catfish, walleye, and wiper.
Calm waters and scenic surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for all kinds of recreational activities, making it a popular destination in northern Utah.
2. Jordanelle Reservoir
- Surface Area: 3,068 acres
- Maximum Depth: 292 feet
- Shoreline: 24 miles
- Primary Fish Species: Smallmouth bass, rainbow trout
Situated near Heber City in central Utah, Jordanelle Reservoir is a popular spot for family-friendly activities.
The lake is surrounded by scenic mountains, providing beautiful views while enjoying boating, water sports, or wildlife viewing.
Boaters can enjoy jet skiing, paddleboarding, and other water sports, while fishermen can expect to catch trout and bass.
The peaceful setting and variety of activities make Jordanelle an ideal location for both adventure seekers and those looking for a relaxing day on the water.
1. Sand Hollow Reservoir
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- Surface Area: 1,322 acres
- Maximum Depth: 95 feet
- Shoreline: 16 miles
- Primary Fish Species: Largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie
Located in southern Utah near St. George, Sand Hollow Reservoir offers year-round recreational activities.
The lake’s clear waters are perfect for boating, kayaking, and even snorkeling or scuba diving. Sand Hollow is also famous for its nearby sand dunes, offering off-road ATV riding.
The red rock landscapes surrounding the reservoir create a striking contrast against the blue waters, making it a visually stunning destination.
Whether visitors are looking for adventure on the dunes or water, Sand Hollow provides a range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts.
FAQs
The Bottom Line
Each of these Utah lakes has its own draw. Some are perfect for fishing, others for boating, and a few are just ideal for relaxing by the water.
No matter what you’re looking for, there’s a lake here that fits the bill.
It’s not about rushing around or ticking off a list, it’s about finding a spot that feels right for you and making the most of it.
Take your time, breathe in the fresh air, and let the natural beauty around you do the rest.