November is an enchanting time to visit Bear Lake. We typically see the first large snowfall just before or around Thanksgiving, transforming our region into a winter wonderland. It’s a magical time for family getaways filled with cozy cabins, mouthwatering s’mores, and reflecting on all there is to be thankful for this year.
Check the weather conditions before you drive in and pack the necessary winter gear — gloves, warm clothing, winter boots, etc., for your stay.
The following itinerary takes place from November 22 through November 25. Don’t forget to book a cabin where you can cook and enjoy Thanksgiving dinner. Yum!
Day 1
4 pm
Arrive at your cabin, stretch those legs, and unload the car for a memorable Bear Lake holiday weekend.
5 pm
Once settled, make your way to the family-owned and operated Cooper’s Restaurant and Sports Bar for a nice pre-Thanksgiving family dinner, but save room for dessert back at the cabin.
6:30 pm
Head back to the cabin.
7 pm
Make some ear-to-ear grin-inducing s’mores for the whole gang and bask in the warmth of being together.
9 pm
Get comfy and put on a family favorite to watch and wind down before bedtime.
11 pm
Turn in and get your rest for the big day.
Day 2
8:30 am
Happy Thanksgiving! Pop right out of bed to soak up every second of your Bear Lake holiday.
9 am
Have breakfast, but keep it light. There are plenty of Thanksgiving treats to come!
10 am
This celebration only comes around once a year, so take your time getting ready.
11 am
It’s time to start preparing Thanksgiving dinner.
12 pm
Spend quality time with the family playing your favorite games, laughing about old stories, or doing anything that brings you joy.
4:30 pm
Start a new Thanksgiving tradition where everyone expresses gratitude for what they’re thankful for and their hopes for the new year.
5 pm
Gather around the table to enjoy the great food and one another.
7 pm
By now, you’re certainly stuffed and smiling. Keep that gratitude alive while you clean up and realize your Thanksgiving vacation is far from over.
8 pm
It’s time to get cozy again and watch a heartwarming Thanksgiving movie.
10 pm
That was, without a doubt, a long and fulfilling day — time for bed!
Day 3
8:30 am
Wake up and greet the day.
9 am
Prepare a delicious winter breakfast of pumpkin spice pancakes doused in cinnamon maple syrup.
10 am
Get ready for another magical winter day in Bear Lake.
11 am
Head to Mike’s Market and grab everything you need to make the perfect picnic lunch.
12 pm
Weather permitting, hike the Ranger Dip Trail. Enjoy a lovely picnic and the irresistible view of Bear Lake. Make sure to wear the necessary winter clothing and footwear to stay warm.
3 pm
Take a rewarding family drive around the lake.
4:30 pm
Stop in Garden City to hit the shops. Pick out some fun souvenirs for the kids.
5:30 pm
Keep the shopping going by visiting the village gift shops. Are you forgetting anyone on your list?
6:30 pm
Have a one-of-a-kind dinner at Cody’s Gastro Garage. You’ll love Cody’s auto-theme and savory food. From wings to burgers to quesadillas, Cody’s has a wide selection of tasty options.
8:30 pm
Drive back to the cabin to rest and recharge.
Day 4
8:30 am
What an incredible holiday, but all good things must come to an end. Jump out of bed and start packing up.
10 am
One last Bear Lake treat — hit up Moose Buns for coffee, out-of-this-world cinnamon buns, and seasonal breakfast items before heading home.