19 Totally Mind-Blowing Lakes You Had No Idea Were In The United States
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Sophia
Author
Sure, the ocean is nice if you live on the coast. But most people in the United States don’t live within a few minutes of the seashore. Instead, we have to make do with absolutely gorgeous lakes. From the steamy, swampy charm of the southern lakes, to the crystalline beauty of northern waters, this nation is rich in natural and man-made lakes of striking beauty and drama. Check out this collection of some of the most beautiful lakes in the US. You’ll be a freshwater fan before you know it.
Maroon Lake, Colorado 81611, USA
Maroon Lake occupies a basin that was sculpted by Ice-Age glaciers and later dammed by landslides and rockfall debris from the steep slopes above the valley floor. It’s one of the most photographed natural sites in Colorado.
Ho?omaluhia Botanical Garden, 45-680 Luluku Rd, Kaneohe, HI 96744, USA
Who needs a name when you’ve got undeniable good looks? This gorgeous freshwater lake is 32 acres across and laps gently at the jewel-green shores of the surrounding botanical garden. Its sheltered location keeps the lake’s waters clean, clear, and teeming with life. In fact, you'll find that it's one of the clearest lakes in the US.
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Lake Drummond, Virginia, USA
That’s not a typo: this lake is actually located in a place called the "Great Dismal Swamp." Far from dismal, Lake Drummond is a hauntingly beautiful natural landmark and one of only two natural lakes in Virginia. Though the lake is protected as part of a national wildlife refuge area, special fishing and boating opportunities are available in this carefully preserved habitat.
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Lake Mead, United States
Lake Mead is Arizona’s largest reservoir and essential to the well-being of the people, plants, and critters of this arid state. The lake is also a popular boating and fishing spot. If you’re lucky and determined, you can also catch a glimpse of the ruins of St. Thomas, a town drowned by the reservoir’s construction.
Crater Lake, Alaska, USA
Though it may look ancient and mystical, this breathtaking lake actually formed quite recently. In 1912, the Novarupta eruption of Mount Katmai caused the caldera of the volcano to collapse into what is now known as Crater Lake. This lake remains isolated and pristine, due to its extreme elevation and the danger of scaling the volcano.
Lake Cochituate, Massachusetts, USA
Cochituate Lake is absolutely stunning on a sunny day. The clear blue of the sky is mirrored in the calm waters of the lake.
Lake Tahoe, United States
Lake Tahoe is located along the border between California and Nevada, west of Carson City. It’s the largest alpine lake in North America and an extremely popular tourist destination. With those glimmering waters, it’s easy to see how the lake rose to national stardom.
Crater Lake, Oregon 97604, USA
This is a caldera lake, which means that it’s actually the collapsed peak of a volcano. Crater Lake is famous for its striking blue color and astounding depth; measuring 1,943 feet down, it is the deepest lake in the United States and either the seventh or ninth deepest in the world (depending on whether one is measuring average or maximum depth). This spot is also famous for the "Old Man of the Lake," a full-sized tree that has been bobbing vertically in the lake for over a century. It's one of the bluest lakes in the US and its natural beauty will take your breath away.
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Heart Lake, North Elba, NY 12946, USA
Seen here from the summit of Mount Jo, the serene Heart Lake is nestled in the heart of some of the most popular campgrounds in the state. The warm autumn foliage contrasts beautifully with the cool blue of the lake.
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Lake Waiau, Hawaii, USA
Located at 13,000 feet above sea level on the "Big Island" of Hawaii, Lake Waiau is arguably one of the highest lakes in all of the United States. Though it may be nestled amongst the clouds, this lake is actually only about 100 meters across.
Lake Blanche, Utah 84121, USA
Utah is full of gorgeous lakes, but this one definitely earns top marks for looks. Lake Blanche is a popular destination for hikers and photographers alike. Its rugged beauty and dramatic setting make it one of the most striking natural formations in the state.
Lake Monroe, Florida, USA
This stunning lake actually extends into DeBary and Deltona along its northern shore, as well as Sanford along the southern shore. If you’re looking to boat on the lake, your best bet is to visit beautiful Lake Monroe Park; they offer free entrance and it’s only $2 to launch your boat from this site. You can also camp along the lake’s shores at several locations. It features some of the best hiking in Florida!
Blue Springs Lake, Missouri, USA
Blue Springs Lake is a perfect spot to picnic or camp. Enjoy sandy beaches, certified lifeguards on duty, showers, and an abundance of natural beauty.
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Lake Powell, AZ 86040, USA
Arizona actually shares this lake with Utah. Its waters serve as a reservoir for both states. Lake Powell has been the filming site for multiple movies, including the dramatic science fiction blockbuster, "Gravity." The lake is also the inspiration behind "Desert Solitaire," a popular novel by Edward Abbey.
Lake Ahquabi, Iowa 50125, USA
Lake Ahquabi is an ideal locale for hopping in your canoe or kayak and gazing at the sunset and its reflection in the rippling waters.
Mirror Lake, Utah 84031, USA
Gaze across the placid waters and silvery sheen of this lake for long enough, and you’ll start wondering where the water ends and the clear Utah sky begins. Mirror Lake is a popular fishing and recreation spot and is home to three distinct species of trout: rainbow, brook, and tiger.
Reflection Lake, Stevens Canyon Rd, Packwood, WA 98361, USA
Reflection Lake has some pretty impressive scenery to contend with, but it holds its own. The waters are a deep, dramatic blue that complements the rugged landscape at the foot of Mt. Rainier. A perfect spot for those who believe a day at the lake calls for flannel, not a bikini.
Cowpen Lake, Florida 32640, USA
This beautiful lake lives up to its otherworldly address. Located in the scenic Riverbed Park, Cowpen Lake is something of a hidden treasure and a perfect spot to fish, picnic, or just watch the clouds roll by. The best way to explore these waters is by canoe, so be sure to set aside some time to paddle around. Once you've seen it, you're sure to agree that it's one of the bluest lakes in the US.
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Lake Clark, Alaska, USA
The original Dena'ina Athabascan name for Lake Clark is "Qizjeh Vena", which means "place where people gather". Its mesmerizing blue hue is the result of the unique mineral makeup and extreme clarity of the water.
If you have been wondering “what’s the most beautiful lake in the US?” then you now have some amazing options! With so many to choose from, we understand if you can’t pick a favorite. What lake did we miss that you think belongs on this list?
If you are planning a lake trip soon and are in need of some high-quality outdoor gear to take with you, check out REI.
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More to Explore
Outdoor Adventures in the US
What are the bluest lakes in the US?
The bluest lakes in the US will blow you away with their stunning and vibrant colors! Get ready for some beautiful natural wonders.
- Diablo Lake in Washington
- Ice Lake in Colorado
- Cosmic Cavern in Arkansas
- Lake Helen in Northern California
- Lake Powell in Arizona
- The Great Lakes in Wisconsin
- Lake Tahoe in Nevada
- Torch Lake in Michigan
- Lava Lake in Oregon
- Smith Lake in Alabama
- Deer Lake in Minnesota
Where are the most beautiful mountains in the US?
The most beautiful mountains in the US are the places to go for a foray into nature. The views are strikingly gorgeous from every point!
- Hurricane Hill in Washington
- Cascade Mountains in Washington, Oregon, and Northern California
- Sierra Nevada Mountains in Northern California
- Sawtooth Mountains in Idaho
- Grand Tetons in Wyoming
- Uinta Mountains in Utah
- Maroon Bells in Colorado
- Guadalupe Mountains in Texas
- Ouachita Mountains in Oklahoma
- Ozark Mountains in Arkansas and Missouri
- Blue Ridge Mountains from Pennsylvania to Georgia
- Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee and North Carolina
- Adirondack Mountains in New York
- Alaska Range in Alaska
- Ko'olau Range in Hawaii
What are the best short and scenic hikes in the US?
The best short and scenic hikes in the US are ideal for families and beginner hikers. If you want to introduce some amazing trails to kids or friends who are new to hiking, any of these choices are great opportunities.
- High Falls Trail in Alabama
- Thunderbird Falls Trail in Alaska
- Navajo National Monument in Arizona
- Lake Catherine State Park in Arkansas
- San Clemente Beach Trail in Southern California
- Tunxis Trail in Connecticut
- Cape Henlopen State Park in Delaware
- Campground Nature Trail in Florida
- Three Forks at Long Creek Falls in Georgia