The U.S. is home to countless freshwater lakes that offer adventure, positive memories, and a chance to reconnect with nature. Here is our “Top 10” list of freshwater lakes that everyone should visit. Be sure to take along your Z-Source water bottle!
10. Lake Coeur d’Alene
Located in northwestern Idaho, the Coeur d’Alene is the breathtaking result of glacial melting during the last Ice Age. The Coeur d’Alene’s shores are dotted with clean beaches and beautiful hiking trails. The lake’s placid scenery provides an excellent environment for kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing.
9. Echo Lake
New Hampshire is home to serene and stunning Echo Lake, which is famous for its magnificent autumnal scenery. The lake is surrounded by picturesque hiking trails, some of which lead to the Cathedral Ledge State Park. Echo’s brilliant backdrops and clear waters are perfect for connecting with the great outdoors.
8. Lake Champlain
Shared by New York, Vermont, and Quebec, Lake Champlain serves as the drinking source for nearly 200,000 people. It’s the 6th-largest body of water in the United States; it’s also one of the most popular bass fishing locations in the Northeast. Serene, bustle-free Lake Champlain is ideal for hiking, camping, and boating.
7. Flathead Lake
This brilliant body of water in northwest Montana is one of the cleanest lakes in the world. The climate is perfect for cherry orchards and wine vineyards. The lake is even enchanted by old Montana folklore‒visitors are sure to hear whispers of the fantastical Flathead Lake Monster!
6. Lake Eklutna
Bordered by the Chugach Mountains, this Alaskan oasis is one of the clearest lakes on Earth. Hiking trails snake throughout the surrounding mountains, allowing visitors to experience an awe-inspiring view of the lake. The Eklutna is a marvelous location for kayaking and fishing; the lake is abundant with rainbow trout and dolly varden.
5. Lake Michigan
Four U.S. states are privy to the unmatched beauty of Lake Michigan. Sprinkled with marshes, forests, and sand dunes, Lake Michigan is the perfect destination for an adventurous day trip or a family picture. Petoskey stones, which are rare, fossilized coral that serves as Michigan’s state stone, can be found on the lake’s northern shores.
4. Yellowstone Lake
Though this gorgeous lake stationed in Wyoming’s Yellowstone National Park is frozen 6 months of the year, it’s still a breathtaking location to visit. Its cerulean waters are perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and boating. Yellowstone Lake provides an incredible panorama of snow-capped mountains, hot springs, and geysers.
3. Lake Tahoe
Shared by California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe may be the second deepest lake in the United States, but its underwater visibility extends to more than 70 feet! This crystal-clear lake is a tourist favorite, as it’s surrounded by ski resorts, restaurants, campgrounds, and hiking trails.
2. Lake Superior
Lake Superior, bordered by both the United States and Canada, is the largest freshwater lake in the world. Superior is graced with stunning scenery and dotted with charming small towns. Its breathtaking views include Tahquamenon Falls, the Painted Rocks, and Devil’s Kettle Falls.
1. Crater Lake
Oregon’s Crater Lake is the result of an 8,000-year-old volcanic eruption. It is the deepest lake in the United States, and one of the purest bodies of water on the planet. It absorbs little pollution, for it is primarily filled with rain and snowmelt. Crater Lake is abundant in wildlife, as well as leftover islands formed by previous volcanic activity.
These lakes are perfect for a family weekend getaway, or a chance to submerge yourself in the great outdoors. After all, nothing beats a lakeside sunset on a tranquil summer evening.
Did we skip your favorit lake? Let us know in the comments!