Thursday, December 4, 2025
Bear Runs

Utah Bears Return to Bear Lake for a Fall Weekend of Fun and Fellowship

Get ready to gather with fellow bears in a beautiful lakeside setting! The Utah Bears are proud to present Bear Lake Bear Weekend 12 – Fall Edition, a fantastic weekend getaway from September 5-7. This beloved annual event, now in its twelfth year, is a chance for gay, bi, queer, and trans men to come together and enjoy the company of other bears in a welcoming environment. As Jack Winward, the event’s owner and organizer, puts it, it’s a “Bears Gathering where Bears Belong: Bear Lake.”

The weekend is packed with opportunities for socializing, dining, and exploring the scenic Bear Lake area, which straddles the Utah-Idaho border.

Weekend Schedule Highlights

The weekend kicks off on Friday, September 5th, with a group dinner at Cooper’s Restaurant in Fish Haven, Idaho. After dinner, the party moves downstairs to the bar for a casual night of billiards, beer, and great company.

Saturday, September 6th, starts with a community feel at a potluck brunch from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Cookie’s Coffee in Montpelier, Idaho. Remember to bring a dish to share and take advantage of the drip coffee provided. Afterward, a range of activities are planned for the afternoon, including boating and hiking, with more details to be found on the event’s Facebook page. Saturday evening culminates with a group dinner at the Campfire Grill at Conestoga Ranch in Garden City, Utah. After dinner, get ready for some cozy s’mores by the fire, or indoors if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

The weekend winds down on Sunday, September 7th, with a final group breakfast at Crepes & Coffee in Garden City. The fun isn’t over yet, though! Sunday afternoon offers a chance to relax and soak in the warm waters of Epic Hot Springs in St. Charles, Idaho, a perfect way to cap off a memorable weekend.

Accommodations and More

For those looking to stay with the group, the Bear Lake Gay Bears typically book bunkhouses (townhomes) in Harbor Village to keep everyone close together. To find an open bed in one of the bunkhouses or to join the discussion, be sure to check out the official Bear Lake Gay Bears Facebook pages.

Please note that all costs for meals, activities, and accommodations are the responsibility of individual participants. The schedule is subject to change, so be sure to check the event’s Facebook page for the latest updates.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with old friends and make new ones at this popular event. Gather with the Utah Bears at Bear Lake and find out why this event has been a community favorite for over a decade!

BWM Staff

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