GARDEN CITY — At the start of the Memorial Day weekend, water levels at Bear Lake are already at the expected peak for the season.
Causes of low water levels
Water managers blame a nearly nonexistent snowpack for the low levels, currently sitting at around seven feet below normal.
Richard Droesbeke Manager for Utah's Bear Lake State Park said the levels are expected to drop another four to five feet by October.
Benefits of lower lake levels
The low levels aren't all bad news, as it also means larger beaches and likely more parking spaces with beach parking. Droesbeke adds that the lake still has lots of surface area to play on, as it runs well over 100 square milles when full.
Boating and accessibility outlook
“The lake will still have plenty of water to play on and in,” Droesbeke said. “And because of Bear Lake's size, there will be lots of water to boat on. To us, Bear Lake will be a destination that many people will come to as other reservoirs get low and have limited access.”
Marina and dock availability
Droesbeke anticipates that Utah Parks will be able to keep docks open all summer long at, the State Marina, First Point, Rainbow Cove, and Cisco Beach. The remaining three, at Rendezvous Beach, North Eden, and Rainbow Cover will be determined as the season goes on.
Related: High gas prices forcing Utahns to adjust Memorial Day plans
Wide open beaches at Bear Lake State Park, in Idaho Friday. (Mike Anderson, KSL)
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