Furthermore, paddleboarding and canoeing allow for a more leisurely exploration of the lake, allowing you to take in the scenery and observe wildlife along the route. 8 best lakes in Michigan and top beaches in the Great Lakes region Travel news, tips & inspiration from Skyscanner Travel News 8 clearest and most beautiful lakes in Michigan 28th February 2023 Veronica Capitani Clear turquoise waters, snorkeling, sailing, white-sand beaches, and pink sunsetsno, this isn't the Caribbean. CALENDAR - Clear Lake So, grab your sunscreen, pack your bags, and lets explore the beauty of Michigans lakes. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines from the shore or use one of the many fishing piers and boat access points located around the lake. So we decided to create a place where we could gather all our concerns, and who knows, maybe we could also help someone else in our situation. Are you ready to explore one of Michigans most beautiful and underrated treasures? Lake Superior, north, invites people in for a cold swim even during the warmest months. Its not hard to see why. Then, cool off in the ocean for a refreshing afternoon. Lake Huron. If you like to kayak along water trails, you can access the Inland Waterway chain from Burt Lake. In this article, well take a closer look at some of Michigans most beautiful and clearest lakes, each offering its unique charm and appeal. There are many fishing charters available. Located on Hokkaido island is Lake Mash, one of the clearest lakes in the world. You should visit Douglas and Saugatuck, and stop at any of the numerous art galleries. However, those that are typically considered to top the list include Grand Haven State Park Beach, Sleeping Bear Point Beach, Twelvemile Beach, and Hoeft State Park Beach. Of those 10,000 lakes, about 2,700 of them are mapped. As the states longest and second largest inland lake, Torch Lake is a favorite destination for fishing, boating, and relaxing near the shore. There are many campsites on the Munising and Rapid River/Manistique Ranger Districts of the Hiawatha National Forest. Kitch iti kipi (The Big Spring): Best Place to Visit in Michigan's UP Lake Huron has stunning sunrises, which is how it became known as the Sunrise Coast. The adjacent beach is excellent for an evening stroll where you can search for washed-up treasures and feast your eyes on a magnificent sunset. Although there are many lakes in Michigan with this name, the 40-acre lake located just outside Traverse City in East Bay Township has the best swimming. Lake Michigamme captures the wild spirit and higher peninsula better than anything else. The lake is popular in summer when it is warm enough to swim, but this is not the only activity. St. Joseph Rogers City Copper Harbor Orchard Beach State Park Holland, MI Saugatuck Tawas Point State Park Belongs on List? Mullett Lakes large surface area and navigable waters make it an ideal boating destination. The beautiful lake is rich in history and its iconic lift bridge is a key part of that story. Nestled in the Lake Tahoe Basin in the Sierra Nevadas, this beautiful body of water is the largest alpine lake in North America. Take a ride on the 7.5-mile Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive and stop at Glen Lake overlook to enjoy some beautiful views. Additional onsite activities include canoeing, kayaking, sailing, or good ol lakeshore lounging. Nearby towns: Traverse City and Charlevoix. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. July is the hottest, muggiest, and wettest month on Lake Michigan, which has many of the state's most popular beaches, so you might have to consider some indoor backup plans if you go during the height of the summer season. The northern Michigan lake of Torch Lake is a beautiful clear glacial lake and the longest and deepest inland lake in the state. You can jump in the water to take a dip, then glide along the surface of the lake in a kayak or parasailing over it. Its an incredible state, and its position nestled right up along Lake Michigan is pretty awesome, too. Mullett Lake has something for everyone, whether you want to relax or go on an exciting outdoor adventure. 1. Read about this delightful beach resort in Michigan. Wolverine Lake is located in southeastern Michigan, close to major cities like Detroit and Ann Arbour. It is close to the village of Elk Rapids in northern Michigan. This preserves the natural beauty that has made northern Michigan so popular. Located in Mountain Pine Arkansas, Lake Ouachita spans 40,000 acres surrounded by the breathtaking landscape of Ouachita National Forest. With its tranquil waters, lush surrounds, and plentiful animals, Mud Lake provides a calm respite from the stresses of everyday life. Splitting the lake into two sections is a good idea. What makes the lake most unique, though, is its stunningly gorgeous clear water ideal for swimmers of all ages. Kalamazoo is 73 miles northeast, Grand Rapids is 106 miles northeast, and Detroit is 210 miles northeast. Nearby towns: Glen Arbor, Empire, and Leland. As with many bodies of water, these can happen and you won't want to swim in an area that has them. Its shimmering surface reflects the azure sky, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that enchants visitors. Sleeping Bear Dunes Beach Credit: Moriah Bender / Unsplash Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park offers everything from sandy beaches to crystal clear water, with bluffs that tower hundreds of feet above the surface of Lake Michigan. Pier in Gull Lake, Minnesota. Highlights: A family-friendly lake and one of the largest inland lakes in Michigan. Black Lake, which is home to the largest fish in the Great Lakes, is where you can spear-hunt them. Michigan is home to an impressive number of lakes and ponds, with 64,980 inland lakes and 11,000 lakes connected to Lake Michigan. The waters are so clear that it is common to see people snorkeling. Lake Superior is known for its beautiful water and surrounding cliffs, waterfalls, wilderness, and sea caves. These are your best months for warm beach weather, access to recreational rentals that are open for things like kayaks, attractions and amenities that are fully open, and ferries that are running to the islands. The clear water of this popular lake is unlike anything else in the state and truly rivals the Caribbean. ), 8 clearest and most beautiful lakes in Michigan, Budget travel tips for the top 5 U.S. cities, Plan quick getaway weekends with these travel hacks, Cheapest US cities to rent a car this year, San Franciscos best rooftop bars: Where to sip with a view, Extreme luxury in Hawaii: The states 10 best 5-star hotels, Guide to choosing the best rental car size for your needs. Anglers can reel in their prized catches by casting a line from a peaceful area on the coast or venturing out on a boat. Lake Huron to the northeast is more laid back with spectacular sunrises. Your email address will not be published. 10 Clearest Lakes In The U.S. | RV Lifestyle There is ample fishing in Lake Charlevoix, as it can get quite deep in some areas. Clear Lake hosts a single campsite in an open area, located on the eastern side of the lake. After lunch, you can launch your boat onto the water for an exciting cruise and swim. Five Clearest Lakes Around The World - Lake Scientist Written by Anietra Hamper Updated May 4, 2023. is a beautiful and hip city that offers endless outdoor activities. So bright and refreshing, youll have to convince yourself this isnt a private tropical island but one of the worlds largest lakes right here in Michigan. Lake Michigan has become dramatically clearer in last 20 years but at Whether its fishing, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, tubing, dune scaling, camping, or whiling away the day on the beach, Michigan boasts over 11,000 inland lakes and over 3,000 miles of freshwater coastline thats waiting to be explored and enjoyed. You can take a windsurfing lesson from a local outfitter and rent equipment when you get here. Its name comes from a Native American moniker meaning "Place Of The Torches.". It is also a top year-round fishing spot. This Swimming Spot Has The Clearest, Most Pristine Water In Michigan. Lake Muskegon is a top lake to visit in Michigan especially if you have an interest in working several types of lake experiences into your visit. Feel the wind caress your face as you navigate the shimmering waters, indulging in the serenity of the open horizon. Located 14 miles south of Sault Ste. It reaches a maximum depth of 28 feet and offers visitors lovely sandy beaches and plenty of shady areas. As the name suggests, Crystal Lake boasts some of the most transparent waters in Michigan. Now a large sandbar separates them, but you can easily access Lake Michigan and the Manitou Islands from this area. Average temperatures during these months range from 76 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, with the sweet spot being mid-June through mid-August when you have the warmest air and water temperatures. Clear Lake - Buchanan Twp Michigan Lake Homes For Sale and Clear Lake The top portion of the lake is close to Lake Michigan, so you can also plan some water time there while you are in the area. Its underwater visibility is believed to extend to 76 meters (249.3 feet), which is comparable to the clearness of distilled water. Its surrounded by fine sand, towering trees and a sparkling lake. What are some of the clearest lakes in Michigan? This gorgeous lake in the state of Michigan spans a large area and features depths that reach remarkable depths. Each Great Lakes has something to offer, with four of the five preferring Michigan. Its a popular tourist destination and a favourite among locals and tourists alike. The lake is close to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, so you can make a day visit to see the sand dunes and the park if you are staying near Lake Leelanau. Set up camp at Van Riper State Park, then fish for your next meal. Pack a tasty meal, choose a shady area, and relax in the peaceful atmosphere. This pair of lakes is located in Leelanau County just outside Glen Arbor near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Its also used for generating hydroelectric power. Stretching all the way down to 1,645 feet deep, Lake Tahoe has beautiful crystal-clear waters at an elevation of 6,225 feet above sea level. Swimming in Lake Medora is a revitalizing experience that allows you to connect with nature and find peace in its tranquility. Silver Lake State Park is known for its warm waters and golden sandy beaches. Burt Lake has a 2,000-foot shoreline at the Burt Lake State Park, which is one of several park areas near the lake. About 75 percent of the lakes in Michigan are natural. Learn more about another amazingly clear Michigan lake at, Michigan is an awesome state for lake lovers after all, its home to more than 10,000 sparkling lakes! Torch Lake in Michigan, described in the article, has clean and blue water, perfect for swimming. Clear Lake, situated in the beautiful state of Michigan, offers an abundance of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. Some of the most amazing, clearest lakes in Michigan include: Lake Huron This lake is the second-largest of the Great Lakes, and its remarkably, beautifully crystal-clear. Fishing is another popular activity on the lake. The Clearest Lakes in Michigan - A Must Visit Tourists love to stop by this shore because of its proximity to Mackinac Island and the natural areas around it. Its popular among boaters, swimmers, fishermen, and many others. Take a picnic to Colonial Point Memorial Forest and Burt Lake State Park. Torch Lake Is One Of The Best Swimming Holes In Michigan The clearest lake in Michigan is Torch Lake. The sandy shores invite beach-goers to step on the sand, while the tall trees provide shade from the scorching summer sun. Lake Medora, located in Michigans scenic Keweenaw County, is a hidden gem that provides guests witha quiet and intriguing experience. Antrim Countys Elk Lake makes a great place to spend a relaxing evening or a fun afternoon with your family. Likewise, thrill-seekers undaunted by often dangerous rip currents can plunge into these frigid waters or discover its intrigue and secrets at The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum. Happy adventuring, fellow Michiganders! Love Michigan? With shipwrecks in the hundreds, Lake Huron is great for divers looking to explore what lies below the surface. Clear Lake Resort Michigan Lodging Family Vacation Resort - Located in Northern Michigan two and a half hours north of Metro Detroit off I-75 in West Branch on Clear Lake, an all sports, spring fed, crystal clear lake that covers over 171 acres. It is also popular for its salmon fishing in the spring and in the fall. Get Even More Stories Like This Right In Your Inbox! Bass Lake is a 344-acre glacial lake located in the northwest region of Michigan at the western end of Grand Traverse County near Grawn and Traverse City. The lake is fairly shallow, only reaching about 20 feet deep. Lake St. Clair, sometimes called the forgotten sixth Great Lake is a favorite of metro Detroiters. Crystal Lake is an oligotrophic lake, which indicates that it has low nutrient content, making it fairly clear and healthy. Copyright 2023 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. Torch Lake is Michigan's longest inland lake and its second-largest. The Clearest Lake In Indiana Is A Must-Do This Season - Only In Your State And for more of the most beautiful lakes in the country, check out our previous article here. Clear Lake State Park | Michigan It is located in Grand Traverse County and sandwiched between Silver Lake and Long Lake in Traverse City. Many make a day of it by camping at Aloha State Park. Clear Lake Campsite, Hiawatha National Forest - Recreation.gov 12 Best Lake Michigan Beaches With White Sand and Stunning Views Trip Ideas Beach Vacations 12 Best Lake Michigan Beaches With White Sand, Rolling Dunes, and Stunning Views These Lake. Manistique Lakes is a collection of lakes in the upper peninsula. And they are here to remind us that paradise, in these uncertain times, is very close at hand. 1. As you plan for your next outdoor adventure, keep one of the clearest lakes in Michigan on your must-visit list. They are perfect for swimming, despite being glacial lakes. The 30 Best Lakes in Michigan for Swimming - Journeyz Big Blue Lake is surrounded by rolling hills, luscious forests, and magnificent vistas. Lake Erie, to the southeast, has excellent fishing spots for northern pike and lake trout. Elk Lake Is One Of The Clearest Lakes In Michigan - Only In Your State What lakes in north Texas have alligators? With its car-free streets, stunning wilderness covering most of the island, and delicious fudge, its a no-brainer vacation spot. Have you ever been to this pristine lake that is one of the most stunning swimming holes in Michigan? Or, if youd like to recommend another one of the clearest lakes in Michigan, let us know by completing our official nomination form. (It only takes 30 seconds, we promise! Go on to explore the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail, composed of over 20 wineries and Best Wine Region nominee by USA Todays 10 Best Readers Choice Travel Award Contest. The largest lake in Kent County can be found in Grand Rapids. Boaters can cruise along the lakes gentle waves, explore its scenic coves, and even enjoy water skiing or tubing. Lake Michigan has outstanding beaches and comprises about 35 miles of shoreline in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. From crystal clear waters to stunning vistas, Michigan is home to some of the worlds most beautiful and pristine lakes. Tucked inland near Traverse City sits one of Michigans most beautiful natural treasures: Torch Lake. 12 Most Beautiful and Clearest Lakes in Michigan - Lake Access Separated from Michigan Lake by soaring dunes, this basin-shaped lake is relatively shallow, with a maximum depth of 23 feet. This 900-Foot Michigan Lazy River Has Summer Written All Over It, This Inland Lake Campground In Michigan Is Nothing Short Of Magical, Dine In A Tropical Wonderland At Michigans Most Colorful Waterfront Restaurant, Visit Pontiac Lake In Michigan For An Absolutely Beautiful View Of The Fall Colors, 9 Little Known Swimming Spots In Michigan That Will Make Your Summer Awesome, The Riverfront Festival In Michigan Thats A Blast For The Whole Family, Theres Nothing Better Than Michigans Natural Lazy River On A Summers Day, The Cozy Lakefront Resort In Michigan Where Memories Have Been Made For Over 100 Years. You can even rent the keepers quarters located on the buildings second floor. The Lake Front Property has one Beautiful Lake Front Home and Five Vacation Cabin Rental options. However, you will need a boat to reach them. Brady Knoll On Pexels. Crystal Lake, as the name implies, is a beautiful spot for swimming and other water activities. This pristine water feels great on a hot, summer day and it is definitely one of the best swimming holes in Michigan. Naturally, some of these lakes are crystalline and absolutely stunning. Fed by underground springs, the lake remains refreshingly cool even during the hottest months. It is one of the most picturesque lakes in Michigan. Bass Lake, a 344-acre glacial lake, is the perfect place to relax and escape the bustling atmosphere of downtown Traverse City. As one of four Great Lakes that border Michigan and one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world, Lake Michigan is one of the best vacation spots in the state. Besides the quiet scene on Elk Lake, visitors are drawn to the glacial lake's beautiful blue water. Fishing on Lake Medora is not only enjoyable, but it also allows you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings. Youll find it in both Antrim and Grand Traverse counties in northern Michigan. Unfortunately, yes, you do have to look out for algae blooms in Michigan. The name refers to the lake. Muskegon Lake is located in Muskegon County on Michigans west side. You can go boating, jet ski, or rent kayaks and canoes to explore it. No wonder Forbes magazine called it a secret celebrity hideaway.. Kayaking, paddle boarding, and canoeing are popular ways for visitors to explore the lakes nooks and crannies and get up close and personal with its natural treasures. Many of these still exist today. Lake Erie has a number of islands that are fun to visit for day trips. There are plenty of places to put up towels and go for a swim. This lovely lake, nestled among rolling hills and deep forests, captivates with its natural beauty. In addition to swimming, boating, and fishing, there are plenty of other fun activities to enjoy on and around Lake Huron. You can take a dip or take a boat on the water to fish for trout, pike, and bass. Nearby towns: Marquette, Copper Harbor, and Grand Marais. Some of the most amazing, clearest lakes in Michigan include: Learn more about some of the best, clearest lakes in the United States! Michigan is home to literally hundreds of lakes. Weve compiled a list with the top lakes in Michigan, both inland and on the Great Lakes waterways. Lake Huron is home to over 1,000 shipwrecks, making it a popular destination for scuba divers and snorkelers. USGS Geonames Domestic. There are still many things to do on one of Lake Michigammes three beaches, even if you dont own a boat. Clear Lake Resort 3802 Grass Lake Road, West Branch, Michigan 48661 Toll free: (800) 589-1156 Local: (989) 345-2459 Text Message: (989) 329-8771 Here are some unique things to do: Lake Mitchell, located in the beautiful state of Michigan, is a captivating destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Glen Lakes. Find a calm area along the beach or rent a boat to get to the deeper waters where the huge catches await. A day spent at the lake can be a highlight of a Michigan summer vacation. Houghton Lake, surrounded by natural beauty and home to the states largest inland lake, is a paradise of fishing, boating, water sports, hiking, and other activities. Splash Universe is an indoor water park in Dundee that is ideal for families and Lake St. Clair Metropark is an exciting and relaxing hidden gem. Known for its phenomenal clarity, this . Lake Medora provides many options for anglers to cast a line and reel in various fish species. How Deep is Lake Superior? If youre looking for a place to stay on Torch Lake, check out The Torch Lake Bed & Breakfast, which you can learn more about here. Clear Lake State Park (Michigan) - Wikipedia This Charlevoix lake is lined with charming resort towns and waterfront restaurants. Paddle around the shoreline, taking in the views and sounds of the peaceful setting. Other Places to Visit in Michigan: As you plan your Michigan vacation you may want to stay in a city like Detroit, Ann Arbor, or Grand Rapids to explore the attractions and make day trips to the lakes nearby. Wolverine Lake is an oasis for water sports and recreational activities. Located in the top half of New Zealand's South Island, Blue Lake is said to be the clearest lake in the world. Architecturally and magnificently designed, this 3 bed, 3 bath home boasts two fireplaces, hardwood flooring, tiled baths, & lots open space . Similarly, the lakes long white sandbars are particularly popular among boaters who gather around them like white moths to an azure flame. It is also part of what is known as the Chain of Lakes, a . Humans created the rest for water supply, recreation, or flood control. Big Manistique Lake is a beautiful spot in autumn. Clear Lake Property - Real Estate 15501 Lakeview Buchanan, MI 49107 ALL SPORTS CLEAR LAKE MODERN CONTEMPORARY HOME FOR SALE. This makes it ideal for swimming. Four of the Great (and largest)Lakesin the United States, Lake Superior, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, and Lake Erie, are found within Michigan. Lake Charlevoix is a nice family-friendly lake, with several white-sand beaches. Although it was once an important part of Native American trade routes and tourism, today most people use it for recreational purposes. There was a lot of information on the internet, but we always spent hours searching for it. If you are looking for lakes to visit in Michigan, you are in luck because the state lays claim to the longest coastline of freshwater in the world. This gives you access to Lake Huron as well as Lake Michigan. However, there is no argument this Michigan lakes water is some of the cleanest and clearest. The sandy beaches are ideal for sunbathing, sandcastle making, or simply relaxing with a book. The fifth Great Lake, Lake Ontario, is in Canada and touches New York.Lake Michigan is the only Great Lake thats entirely inside the United States. Clear Lake Property - Real Estate - Michigan Lakes Team