Utah is a magnificent state with so much to offer in terms of outdoor activities. With think snowfall in the winter months, and stunning mountain slopes, skiing and snowboarding are generally on the top of every local’s list of things to do.
But for those who love boating, the options are certainly slim pickings with Utah being a completely landlocked state. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t some super Utah boating locations. I’ve often found that lakes and reservoirs have more to offer to those that want to enjoy a little boating. This is because water sports are a little safer when contained to a lake where you don’t have to worry about being swept out to sea.
These are a couple of the Utah lakes for boating that I have come to love over the years.
Boating Lakes in Utah
Utah lake boating comes in all different shapes and forms. Whether you want to speed around corners and attempt to land jumps on Utah lake boat ramps, water ski behind a boat, try your hand at jet skiing, or kayak gracefully across the surface of the water, there is something for you at these magnificent Utah lakes.
Lake Powell
Is one of the most well-known Utah lakes. It is a reservoir that was created by the Glen Canyon Dam and it spans over 2,000 miles of canyons and coastline.
It’s no wonder that this is such a popular spot for boating in Utah, so remember to pack your outfit for a boat. With so much coastline, there are ample opportunities to explore all the different nooks and crannies. There are also tons of different inlets and coves to explore, which makes for an interesting day of boating on Lake Powell.
The lake is one of the more popular vacation spots, having over 2 million visitors each year. And it’s easy to see why. In terms of things to do on Lake Powell, there are water skiing, wakeboarding, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking opportunities.
There are also fishing spots aplenty for those who want to try and catch their dinner. And for the more adventurous types, there is even canyoneering and rock climbing to be had in some of the areas around the lake.
Tours at Lake Powell
Antelope Canyon and Lake Powell Flight with River Rafting – If you would like to enjoy an organized day trip to Lake Powell, then this tour may just be for you. You’ll get the opportunity to take in stunning views from above as you fly over Grand Canyon’s East Rim, Lake Powell, and the Colorado River. The experience is rather similar to the one you’ll have rafting in Glacier National Park.
You’ll take a short hike in Antelope Canyon after your flight where you can take some incredibly Instagrammable photos. Your guide will also teach you about the history of the area before you hop in a motorized raft and drift gently down the Colorado River.
Deer Creek Reservoir
This reservoir is a little bit smaller than Lake Powell coming in at around 1,100 acres. But it is certainly no less beautiful. It is located in Heber Valley and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike. It’s a great spot for boating, fishing, swimming, and even camping. There are plenty of different activities to keep you busy during your time at Deer Creek Reservoir.
There are two different marinas on the reservoir, which makes it a great spot for those who want to enjoy a day of boating. There is also a boat launch for those who have their own boats. There are tons of different fish species in the reservoir, so it’s a great spot for those who love to fish. And for those who want to take a dip, there is a swimming beach where you can cool off on hot days.
Flaming Gorge Reservoir
This is another one of the Utah lakes that is a reservoir. It was created by the Flaming Gorge Dam and is located in northeastern Utah. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists and is a great place to enjoy a day of boating, fishing, swimming, and camping.
There are two different marinas on the reservoir where you can rent boats or launch your own. There are also boat ramps if you want to launch your own boat. There are tons of different fish species in the reservoir, so it’s a great spot for those who love to fish. And for those who want to take a dip, there are several different beaches where you can cool off on hot days.
Tours at Flaming Gorge Reservoir
Flaming Gorge Full-Day Bus Tour – This tour allows you to take a bus tour through the Flaming Gorge Reservoir Reserve seeing beautiful rock formations and stunning mountain ranges. You’ll also have a chance to stop for a delicious lunch along the way.
Bear Lake
Bear Lake is one of the most beautiful Utah lakes. It’s a natural freshwater lake that’s situated on the border of Utah and Idaho. While the lake is equally split between the two states, the half that is located in Utah is the largest body of fresh water in the state.
The water is a stunning brilliant blue that is ever so enticing and will certainly be calling your name in the warmer months. It’s one of the best lakes for Utah water sports and provides the perfect location for swimming, fishing, boating or even camping.
Bear Lake is 20 miles long and 8 miles wide so it feels like you have the whole place to yourself. With white sandy beaches lining the edge of the freshwater lake, it can feel like a beach day in the middle of a landlocked state.
Jordanelle Reservoir
Jordanelle Reservoir is located in the Wasatch Mountains and is a reservoir that was created by the Jordanelle Dam. There are tons of different fish species in the reservoir, so it’s a great spot for those who love to fish. And for those who want to take a dip, there is a swimming beach where you can cool off on hot days.
The lake provides heaps of fun for the whole family as you can rent a boat, splash about in the inflatable water park, and zipline across the water if you’re up for a true adventure.
Strawberry Reservoir
Strawberry Reservoir is one of the most popular fishing spots in Utah. It’s located in the Uinta Mountains and provides a serene location for those who want to relax and cast a line.
The reservoir is also a great spot for boating, camping, and hiking. There are tons of different fish species in the reservoir, so it’s a great spot for those who love to fish. And for those who want to take a dip, there is a swimming beach where you can cool off on hot days.
Willard Bay Reservoir
Willard Bay Reservoir is a man-made warm water reservoir within the Great Salt Lake. The main marina is located within Willard Bay State Park and is home to just about every kind of recreational activity you could hope for.
Although boat rental is seasonal, there is a slipway that allows for many different kinds of motorized water vehicles. There are also restrooms and showers available for use when you are done playing in the water. If you feel inclined to stay a couple of days, there are both RV hook-ups and campsites available to the public.
Utah Lake
Utah Lake is a very shallow freshwater lake right in the center of Utah. The water sits at a consistent water temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit which is ideal for swimming. It’s become a popular place for boating, swimming, and paddle-boarding in recent years, so make sure to take all your water sporting gear along.
The only issue with Utah Lake is that it is prone to algae blooms, so be careful what time of year you choose to visit. Swimming when there are too many algae can cause illness as well as infection in open wounds and cuts.
Yuba Lake
Yuba Lake provides guests with the opportunity to relax on its many beaches as well as boat across the surface of the water. There are also many camping spots along the side of the lake.
Waterskiing and windsurfing are also popular activities at Yuba Lake and there are ideal picnic spots to take a break after a long and exciting day of activity on the water.
Final Thoughts on Boating in Utah
There are so many different lakes to choose from when boating in Utah. Whether you’re looking for a lake that’s great for fishing, swimming, or even just relaxing on the beach, there’s sure to be a perfect spot for you. And with Utah’s ever-changing landscape, you’ll never get bored of the views. So get out there and enjoy all that Utah has to offer.
And forget to make the most of all the water sporting and boating activities on offer at these wonderful lakes!
