The clearest lakes in the US everyone must visit

Stef Zisovska

The US is a country with countless natural beauties, but the clear-water lakes are really something special. Many of these lakes are alpine while others were formed by tectonic movements. Organizing a mountain road trip and visiting the country’s most spectacular lakes is an adventure everyone should do at least few times in a lifetime. You can only understand how beautiful these lakes are if you go and see them.

Spending time in the outdoors is always a nice thing to do and will help you discover a new corner of the country that you have never seen before.

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

View of Tahoe North Shore from the East Shore – Author: Lara Farhadi – CC-BY 2.0
View of Tahoe North Shore from the East Shore – Author: Lara Farhadi – CC-BY 2.0

Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America and the one with the clearest water of all. The area around the lake offers visitors many things to do throughout the year. In summer you can go fishing on the lake or visit some of the hiking and biking trails. The winter months are reserved for the ski and snowboarding fans.

Crater Lake, Oregon

Wizard Island in Crater Lake National Park – Author: Dagmara Mach – CC BY-SA 4.0
Wizard Island in Crater Lake National Park – Author: Dagmara Mach – CC BY-SA 4.0

Crater Lake was formed after the violent eruption of Mt. Mazama around 8000 years ago. The lake is now in the caldera of the dead volcano, and it’s the deepest alpine lake in the country. Crater Lake is known for its deep blue color and its clearness. It’s only fed by rain and melted snow, so its water is some of the cleanest in the States. Perhaps the most beautiful feature of the lake is Wizard Island, although the Old Man of the Lake, a 30-foot tree stump, is pretty amazing, too. If you ever decide to visit Oregon, you must see Crater Lake and enjoy its surroundings.

Lake Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Lake Coeur d’Alene in Idaho – Author: Jamidwyer – CC BY-SA 2.0
Lake Coeur d’Alene in Idaho – Author: Jamidwyer – CC BY-SA 2.0

Lake Coeur d’Alene is a natural lake located in Idaho and with more than 109 miles of shoreline. The North Idaho Centennial Trail is popular among hikers, cyclists, and all outdoorsy folk who like to spend some quality time in nature. The water of this pristine lake spans more than 25 miles. Spectacular beaches are available for all visitors during the summer months.

Lake Chelan, Washington

Stehekin, Washington, and the north end of Lake Chelan – Author: David Ansley – CC-BY 2.5
Stehekin, Washington, and the north end of Lake Chelan – Author: David Ansley – CC-BY 2.5

Lake Chelan is the third deepest lake in the US, and it was formed during the last Ice Age. The lake is 1,489 feet deep in the Wapato and Lucerne Basins. If you decide to visit this area, you can see the vineyards, head for the small charming towns around the lake, or hike in the mountains. Lake Chelan is a perfect getaway for young couples who are looking for a romantic weekend on a lakeshore.

Hanging Lake, Colorado

Hanging Lake in Glenwood Canyon, Colorado – Author: Joshuahicks – CC BY-SA 3.0
Hanging Lake in Glenwood Canyon, Colorado – Author: Joshuahicks – CC BY-SA 3.0

The Hanging Lake in Glenwood Canyon in Colorado is one of the most spectacular lakes in the whole country. It’s famous for its clear and turquoise water and its beautiful surroundings. Hanging Lake can be reached only by the Hanging Lake Trail and this fact makes it even more special. The trail is one of the favorites within the state of Colorado. The hike will take around 2 hours, and when you reach the lake you will see the Spouting Rock behind.

Torch Lake, Michigan

Kayaking on Torch Lake – Author: Andrew Lin – CC BY-SA 3.0
Kayaking on Torch Lake – Author: Andrew Lin – CC BY-SA 3.0

Torch Lake is a part of the lake chain in Michigan, and it’s the state’s biggest inland lake. The name comes from the torches that the Ojibwa Tribe members lit to attract fish. While you’re in the area, you can visit the other lakes of the lake chain and have a great 100-mile boating adventure. If you like swimming, sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking, then the Lower Chain Lakes in Michigan is the right place for you.

Choose which one you like the most, prepare your tent, invite a few friends and have the adventure of a lifetime. Good luck!

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We live in a beautiful world, get out there and enjoy it. Outdoor Revival – Reconnecting us all with the Outdoors.

stef-zisovska

stef-zisovska is one of the authors writing for Outdoor Revival