Destinations

Gateway to the Beautiful Bear Lake

Visiting Garden City

An Incredible Lakeside Getaway.

Elevation:
5,968 Feet
Population:
636
Garden City, Utah is a small city located in the northeastern part of the state. Located at the base of the Wasatch Mountains and on the shores of Bear Lake, it offers residents an opportunity to enjoy stunning views and outdoor adventures year-round. Garden City was founded in 1877 by pioneers who were seeking refuge from religious persecution in their homeland. It was originally known as Paris, but the name was changed to Garden City in 1891 due to its beautiful gardens and lush vegetation.

The area is a popular destination for anglers, campers, hikers, water sport enthusiasts, snowmobilers and many other outdoor adventurers. Fish species such as cutthroat trout, lake trout, brown trout and rainbow trout are plentiful in Bear Lake. For campers, there are several RV parks and private campsites nearby. And hikers will love the Rocky Mountain National Park which offers over a thousand miles of trails within its boundaries.

History

Garden City is steeped in rich history and culture. Mormon pioneers first settled in 1877, who were forced to flee their homeland due to religious persecution. The town was originally known as Paris, but the name changed to Garden City in 1891 for its gardens and lush vegetation. Over time, Pioneer families from Germany, England, Denmark and other parts of Europe all helped shape the culture of the area.

Today, Garden City is a vibrant community that boasts a thriving economy. Its businesses, services and recreational activities all contribute to the local economy and help make it a great place to live. Agriculture is an important part of Garden City’s economy; farms in the area produce vegetables, fruits, dairy products and other agricultural goods. The city also hosts its own farmer's market each week, where local farmers and artisans can showcase their products.

Places of Interest

Bear Lake State Park

Bear Lake State Park is located just a few miles from Garden City. It’s one of Utah’s most scenic parks, and it offers wonderful outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, camping, swimming and more. The lake is known for its beautiful turquoise waters and is the perfect place to explore during a day trip or weekend getaway.

Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

For hikers and campers, the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest offers over 1.2 million acres of pristine wilderness to explore. With miles of trails, breathtaking views and plenty of wildlife, it’s a great place to get away from it all. Popular activities include hiking, camping, fishing, horseback riding and ATVing.
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Planning your trip to Garden City

Garden City is a great place to visit, and it can be easily reached by car from Salt Lake City or other major cities in the area. Airports in Salt Lake City, Logan and Provo are all within driving distance of the city. Once you arrive, plenty of attractions and activities keep visitors busy for days or even weeks at a time.

Whether you’re visiting for a day or looking to stay for longer, Garden City is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those who appreciate the small-town atmosphere of rural Utah. With its stunning mountain views, nearby national park and numerous recreational activities, it’s no wonder people keep coming back to this charming city year after year.
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lodging

Garden City has a variety of lodging options for visitors, from hotels and motels to bed & breakfasts. Depending on the season, some of these lodging options are very affordable. There are also several campgrounds in and around Garden City where visitors can stay for an extended period of time.

dining

Garden City is home to a wide variety of restaurants, including Chinese, Mexican and Italian options. There are also plenty of casual eateries where visitors can grab a quick bite or enjoy an evening out. Whether you’re looking for a sit-down dinner or just something to tide you over between activities, Garden City has something for everyone.

Shopping

Garden City is home to a variety of boutiques, antique shops and other specialty stores. You can find everything from unique souvenirs to locally-made arts and crafts. The city also hosts its weekly farmer’s market during the summer, where local farmers and artisans showcase their products.

Seasons

Garden City experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year. Summers are usually sunny and dry, but can be quite hot during the day. Winters tend to be cold and snowy, but are great for activities like skiing and snowmobiling. Spring is mild and pleasant, while fall brings beautiful foliage to the area as well as cool temperatures.
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