The best 10 American lakes that must be on your bucket list

Around the country, some of the most beautiful holiday destinations are around lakes across the country.


One of the big things aboutLive in the United States is that you don't have to leave the country to discover all the different types ofClimats and geographies, New York sandy shores at the Midwest mountains to the Northwest Pacific forests. An excellent way to enjoy all this natural beauty is to visit some of the country's special lakes. Long kilometers and hundreds of feet deep in some cases, these lakes seem almost unreal thanks to their breathtaking pantry. You will find expected things like hiking trails and waterfalls, as well as really unique characteristics such as emerald green water, calcium carbonate "towers", rocky caves and the largest cypress forest in the world. Read The rest to hear travel experts on the 10 American lakes that you just need to put on your list of buckets.

Read this then:The 6 best destinations outside radar in the United States which must be on your list of buckets.

1
Lake Diablo, Washington

diablo lake overlook north cascades national park
Anna Abramskaya / Shutterstock

Lake Diablo is located in the North Cascade mountains in the northern Washington state. It is reached by a hike of about four miles up to an altitude of 1,500 feet, although certain places are also accessible by car. "It is located between the beautiful mountains and is a turquoise green color due to the glacial silt that runs in the lake," explainsKincy Chantelle, travel advisor andAuthor of Travel Blog Flannels or flip flops. As the National Park Service (NPS) explains, the rock particles called ice flour "enter the lake when the surrounding mountains rock is eroded with ice and flows into waterThrough glacial streams. "Flooring glacial flour refracts sunlight, so water takes the most catchy color of summer months.

But it's more than photo sessions ready for Instagram - there are also a lot of activities. "There is a superb view of which you can simply drive, but there is also swimming, kayaking and many hiking trails and camping grounds around the lake," explainsJessica Schmit of theTraveler of the uprooted travel site. Know that "because Lake Diablo is nourished freezing, it is cold all year round", advises Kincy. As for the hike, choose between the 7.5 miles hike from Lake Diablo or the 3.5 mile Thunderknob path.

The North Cascade Mountains are about two hours on the northwest of Seattle, so if you are looking for a longer trip, spend a few days in the city, then rent a car to go to the lake. Once arrived, there are several places to camp. Kincy suggests that Colonial Creek North Campground, which is located just on the lake.

2
Crater Lake, Oregon

Crater Lake National Park
Pierre Leclerc / Shutterstock

At 1,943 feet, Lake Crater of Oregon is the deepest lake in the United States and the ninth deeper in the world. If these superlatives were not enough to attract you, it is also beyond picturesque. The lake is located in a caldera (a volcanic basin)Trained 7,700 years ago When Mount Mazama 12,000 feet high collapsed after an eruption, said the NP. "Other than rain and snow, the lake has no other sources of water, which makes its famous blue waters incredibly clear and clean," explains Schmit. In fact, "water is so clear that objects can be seen up to 140 feet below the surface", notesMatt James, founder ofVisit travel blog. There are certain areas where swimming is authorized, but the water is generally very cold.

Another unique aspect of Lake Crater is the series of small islands that were formed during the volcanic eruption. According to the Ministry of the Interior (DOI),Wizard island is the largest, amount more than 750 feet. In summer, the NPS hosts aboat tour Where customers can go hiking to the top of the island. Other boat trips simply turn La Caldeira, but to reach all the boats, you will have to descend the Cleetwood Cove de Long path.

WhetherHike in any form Isn't that your thing, a great way to see Crater Lake is to drive around the 33-mile on-board road (note that it is a narrow and winding road). It offers 30 picturesque withdrawals, according to the Doi, which includes Pinnacles Overlook, where "visitors can see volcanic ashes frozen in solid rock formations 100 feet high" and Videa Falls, which "offers a cascade view In the cascade and is one of the best places to observe part of the plant life in the park. "The journey is generally open from July to October because there are a lot of snowfall in winter.

Crater Lake is located in Crater Lake's National Park in the southern Oregon cascade chain. On the west side of the East rangeUmpqua National Forest, an equally historic wild zone that has a lot of campsite.

Read this then:8 state parks that are even better than national parks, say the experts.

3
Lake Tahoe, California

The beautiful crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe with mountains in the background
Nkneidlphoto / Shutterstock

On the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is located in the mountains of Sierra Nevada. It's theThe largest alpine lake (those at very high altitude) in North America, as well as the second deepest lake in the United States more than 1,600 feet, according to the extranomic tours of the company based in San Francisco.

It is known as a popular vacation destination because it offers both ski resorts and seaside resorts. As James explains, the South Shore is the place where you will find most of the lively restoration and entertainment options, including hotels, casinos and an active nightlife. "The west coast is calmer and more rustic, with forests and meadows perfect for hiking, cycling and horse riding. And the bank is is the place to go for water sports, with the only public marina in Lake Tahoe, "he said.

In summer, James suggests Secret Cove or Sand Harbor if you are looking for a quiet beach experience. The latter is the place where you will find these superb rock formations; This is also where theTahoe Shakespeare lake festival takes place in July and August. For a "more festive" atmosphere, he recommends to Kings Beach or Tahoe City, who both have pretty city centers and many restaurants and hotels.

In winter, "the lake turns into a winter wonderland", explains James.Tahoe palisades (famous for its air tram) andNorthern California are two of his favorite ski resorts.

4
Mono Lake, California

Tufa Reflections at Mono Lake in California
Theartist312 / Istock

Located in the eastern mountains of Sierra Nevada, the Mono Lake in California is completely spectacular. This is part of the Mono Lake Tufa state reserve, which was created to protect TUFA towers, "Calcium turns and carbonate buttons Formed by [the interaction] of freshwater sources and water from the alkaline lake ", according to the California Department of Parks and Recreation. These incredible structures were formed on the existence of a million years of Lake (this is one of the oldest lakes in North America), with salts and minerals in eastern Sierra, Sierra is washing.

Due to its incredibly high salt content - in the end three times that of the ocean - Lake Mono is considered a Soda Soda Soda. Taking a swim, therefore, is a really unique experience because you will find very easy to float. Although you will miss this in winter, the cold is also a good time to visit, because the Tufa towers are capped in the snow and think beautifully in the water.

Lovers of birds and animals will find the Mono lake particularly exciting. James notes that it is sometimes called "American serengeti" due to the diversity of the wildlife population. "The lake also houses the largest global colony of alkaline flies, and is an important stopover for migratory birds," he explains. The Parks and Leisure Department has put the number of migratory bird species at more than 80.

Mono Lake is just 20 minutes by car west ofYosemite National Park, it is therefore a perfect opportunity to see these two natural wonders. Buckeye Hot Spring is a few steps north of Mono Lake, but if you head south, you will meet many hot sources, including Wild Willy's, The Rock Buch and Shepherd.

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5
Watson Lake and Willow Lake, Arizona

A purple-colored sunset at Watson Lake in Prescott Arizona
Twildlife / Istock

At an hour and a half north of Phoenix, the Watson and Willow lakes of Arizona are surrounded by beautiful granite rocks. "These rocks offer a picturesque backdrop for swimming, paddleboarding and kayak and create a natural playground perfect for climbing, hiking, climbing and more," saidBrittany Sawyer,,Founder of the Blog Travel by Brit.

The rocks are officially known as the DELLS granite. According to Az Wonders, theyformed 1.4 billion years ago And have been eroded over time "through a process called spheroidal alteration" to win their unusual rounded forms. The lakes are both tanks that were manufactured in the early 1900s, then acquired by the local municipality to serve as leisure areas.

If more adventurous activities are not your thing, Prescott Peavine National Recreation Trail is a great way to see Lake Watson. Originally as part of the Santa Fe railway, it was converted into aSix miles walking trail.

The two lakes are located in the city of Prescott, which is "known for itsAuthentic story of the cowboy"According to the city's website, as well as Whiskey Row, an extent of golden era salons which are now bars, restaurants, art galleries and stores.

6
Suspended lake, Colorado

hanging lake and waterfalls in colorado
Clp Media / Shutterstock

The hanging lake of Colorado is in the middle of the Glenwood canyon in the national forest of the White river, which is part of the rocky mountains of the south. According to the USDA forest service, it is a designated national benchmark that "was"formed by a geological fault What dropped the bed from the lake from the bottom of the valley above. "Consequently, around the lake are large waterfalls which take place through lush greenery. The suspended lake is very striking due to its emerald green waters, the result of its travertine bed which was" created by mineral deposits over thousands of years, "explainsMathew Bowley, marketing director atVillas SOLMAR Villas of the European Travel Company.

To get there, you will have to take the 1.2 mile panoramic path that starts at the bottom of Glenwood Canyon, goes through Deadhorse Creek Canyon and ends at 1,000 feet at Hanging Lake. The forest service warns that it is "steep and rocky".

An important point is that you cannot swim in the suspended lake, because human interaction can damage the ecosystem and disturb its composition of limestone. However, "a little detour to the route will take you to spring from rock," says Bowley. "A waterfall was created by water samples through the solid rock, cooling hot hikers below."

Read this then:The 10 best national parks that must be on your list of buckets.

7
Lac Flathead, Montana

A scenic view of Flathead Lake from Polson, Montana with clouds over the mountains in the background
James R Poston / Shutterstock

Located in the northwest of Montana, the 30-thousand Long Flathere lake is the largest natural freshwater lake (per surface), in the west of the United States and is consideredOne of the cleanest in the world, according to Montana Fish, fauna and parks (FWP). What is interesting about Flathead Lake State Park is its "six units", each with its own unique land. The most popular is perhaps Wild Horse Island, a 2,160 acres pine forest which is only accessible in boat. Here you will see "Bighorn Sheep, Mule Deer, Songbirds, Waterfowl, Bald Eagles and Falcons, as well asFive wild horses"Explains Montana FWP.

As for the other units, Big Arm is a bay and a beach perfect for relaxing, swimming, water skiing, scuba diving and exploring the 2.5 mile hiking trail. Finley Point offers superb fishermen on the lake and Lake Whitefish, as well as camping sites in a motorhome and boat. For more fishing, as well as marina and kayak navigation visits, head to the west bank. This unit also offers incredible views of the surrounding mission and Swan mountain ranges. Wayfarers is a popular wooded park for its photogenic and rocky shore and the many wild flowers that cover the spring area in the fall. And, finally, Yellow Bay "is at the heart of the famous Vergers of Cherry Sweet Cherry", shares the Montana FWP.

Lake Flathead is less than an hour's drive south of the Glacier National Park, which is also full of wild and wildlife activities, many travelers plan their travels around the two attractions. The largest city near Lake Flathead is Big Fork, where, in winter, you can participateThe famous Montana dog dogs.

8
Lac Superior, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan

A rock sea cave in Michigan's Lake Superior.
Dean Pennala / Shutterstock

We would be negligent if we have not included a large lake on this list! Although they are all quite spectacular, the superior lake is the largest freshwater lake in the world and contains 10% ofSurface surface waters of the world. Surrounded by Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Ontario, it is so great that there is really something for everyone. This includes apnea diving to see more than 300 shipwrecks, kayaking and paddleboarding, stargazing and exploration of more than 30 headlights, actionsPure Michigan.

One of the most picturesque parts of Lac Supérieur is the photo of Rocks National Lakeshore, an extent of land along the upper Michigan peninsula which is composed of "imposing cliffs, overwhelming waves and colorful rock formations", as describes it James. A popular activity is to kayak through the rocky caves, although the NPS recommends thatInexperienced kayakers Choose to make a guided tour. On Earth, the photo of the rocks has more than 100 miles of hiking trails. "And if you are looking for a truly unique experience, you can even make climbing ice on the frozen cascades in winter", shares James.AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB

Another attraction on the lake is Isle Royale National Park, an archipelago of 850 square miles accessible only by boat or floating plane, according to theNational Parks Foundation. They also note that "99% of the earthly mass is designated by the federal government", which includes "165 miles of panoramic hiking trails and 36 campsite", as well as wildlife like moose and wolves. Note that the park is closed from November to mid-April.

Read this then:The 10 best seaside resorts in the United States for a stressless getaway.

9
Seneca Lake, New York

A pier with a little red structure overlooking Seneca Lake in upstate New York.
Albertpego / Istock

There are two main prints on Seneca Lake, the largest of the 11 Finger Fingale lakes. First, it is extremely magnificent and vast. "It measures 38 impressive miles from north to south. With a maximum depth of just over 618 feet, it is one of the deepest water bodies in the country - for this reason, the American navy tests The sonars used on the submarines of the barges located on Lake Seneca, "explainsJeff Shipley, president and chief executive officer ofCounty Chamber of Commerce of Seneca. He also notes that the lake is very accessible, "because boaters can go to the region from the Atlantic Ocean through a series of interconnected navigable channels and the channel system".

If you do not have your own boat, there are several places for the rental or reservation of a boat visit. Paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing are alsoPopular lake activities, according to the Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance.Carol Cain, director and founder oflocal marketing company Brave World Media, recommends visiting the National Forest of Finger Lakes on the east side of the lake. It is "the only national forest in New York and is home to countless wild animals, as well as wonderful hikes, camping and swimming," she said.

The other selling argument of Seneca Lake is that he is at the heart of the wine country of the Finger lakes. "More than half of the wine establishments in the region are located here, and its award -winning wine path Seneca Lake helps organize a variety of experiences that celebrate the diversity of award -winning cellars," explains Cain. Thewine track Covers 320 square miles around Lake Seneca Ava (American wine area) and includes 27 cool climatic cellars. For more food and drink, Cain suggests hitting the charming small towns on the west side of the lake, because they have additional vineyards and many restaurants "with the best of the farm culture at the table".

10
CADDO LAKE, Texas

Earleliason / Istock

Caddo Lake's state park offers views unlike any other, with its famous cypresses dripping with Spanish foam. The lake extends over 26,810 acres, a "labyrinth ofBayous, Sloughs and Ponds"As the Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPW) describes on the border of Louisiana describes it, it is the only natural lake in Texas and the largest cypress forest in the world, according toHaley Plotkin,,Founder of the Travel Blog Set jet set set.

Due to what is hidden underwater, you cannot swim in Lake Caddo. "The lake is home to many rare and threatened species, including the American Alligator, the American white head pygargue and the Louisiana black bear," said James. But you can do canoeing or kayaking in the waters. There are10 official paddle trails In Lake Caddo and the Grand Cypress adjacent Bayou (a group of wetlands along the west edge of the lake). Plotkin says that it strongly recommends "a sunlight paddle for the most beautiful photos".

Fishing is another popular activity at Lake Caddo, because it welcomes more than 70 species of fish. And if you are looking for a place to stay, TPW notes that there are 46 campsites, seven sheltered shelters and 14 historic cabins.


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