Bear River State Park straddles the Bear River on the east side of Evanston, with a paved trail that follows the water for several kilometres through open grassland. Elk and bison roam the grounds year-round — not in enclosed paddocks but in large open areas that make for genuine wildlife watching at close range. The bison herd in particular tends to graze near the trail, and encounters at a respectful distance are common.
The park is free and open year-round. In summer the river is good for fishing (a Wyoming licence is required). In winter the trails are used by cross-country skiers and snowshoers. The visitor centre at the entrance has exhibits on the region's ecology and the history of the Bear River, which eventually drains into the Great Salt Lake 350 km to the south.