
Despite the fact that the hike can be a grueling two to three hour trip, this geological beauty is well worth the effort. The sparkling waters can only be reached by the Hanging Lake Trail, one of the most popular hikes in Colorado. Named a National Natural Landmark in 2011, Hanging Lake is a rare example of a lake formed and secured by limestone deposits after an acre and a half of the valley floor sheared off from the fault line. Suspended on the edge of Glenwood Canyon’s cliffs, Hanging Lake is known for its awe-inspiring beauty and clear turquoise water. After a day on the lake, visitors can hit up the unique shops, try some delicious wine, and explore the art museum at Kalispell, MT, which is just off the lake.
#States with beautiful weather and big lakes plus
This stunning area also has beautiful cherry orchards, spectacular golf courses, and a wildlife refuge on Wild Horse Island that houses more than 75 species of birds, plus deer, bighorn sheep, coyotes, and bears. Visitors can take in the sights of the Swan and Mission Mountains as well as enjoy sites for picnics, boating, sailing, fishing, and more at Glacier National Park. Reaching a length of 28 miles and a width of 15, the lake offers visitors 188 square miles of sparkling waters and unlimited recreational opportunities. Lake George RV Park is located only minutes away from the lake and features plenty of on-site attractions, amenities, and a complimentary trolley.įlathead Lake was first described by explorer David Thompson as “a fine sheet of water,” and it is indeed the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. Guests to the area can also enjoy a number of water-based activities ranging from water-skiing and jet-skiing to rafting and kayaking. Located in the southeastern Adirondack State Park, Lake George gathers more than 50,000 summer visitors who seek the beautiful views of the deep blue water. Known as the Queen of American Lakes, this 32-mile-long lake is one of the most beautiful in the United States.

Visitors can take in the sights along the water or check out the beautiful vineyards, mountains, and small towns that surround the lake. As the third deepest lake in America, this striking lake reaches a depth of 1,486 feet in the deepest part of the Wapato and Lucerne Basins, which were formed by glaciers during the Ice Ages. Lake Chelan Īs the largest natural lake in the state of Washington, Lake Chelan offers visitors 50.5 miles of stunning natural beauty, and is the gateway to the North Cascades National Park. Visitors can explore the North Idaho Centennial Trail, a multi-use recreational trail that follows the Idaho and Washington state line, traveling along the lake’s shoreline to beautiful Higgens Point. Here, visitors can experience the spectacular beaches and gorgeous views, catch glimpses of bald eagles, and see beautiful Idaho sunsets. But, none are more beautiful or pristine than Lake Coeur d’Alene itself whose waters span 25 miles. The Coeur d’Alene area of Idaho is covered with more than 55 lakes that were left behind by the glaciers of the ancient Ice Ages. With beautiful and interesting features like the “Old Man of the Lake,” a 30-foot tree stump that has bobbed vertically in the waters for over a century, and Wizard Island, which was formed from a cinder cone after the eruption, Crater Lake offers visitors a unique experiences, beautiful views, and fantastic outdoor opportunities in Oregon. Since it is fed only by rain and snow, and therefore absorbs little pollution, it is extremely clear. Known for its deep blue color and clear water, this lake is the deepest lake in the country.

Located in the caldera of the once-towering volcano Mount Mazama, Crater Lake was formed after the violent eruption of this now-sleeping volcano, approximately 7,700 years ago. This stunning lake is visited by approximately 3 million people every year. You can take in the sights on a cruise or explore them firsthand with hiking trails, bike paths, or ski slopes in the winter. It offers visitors many options for exploring the gorgeous area as well. Known for its phenomenal clarity, this ancient lake has the purest waters in North America, making this The Clearest Lake in the United States. 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. Nestled in the Lake Tahoe Basin in the Sierra Nevadas, this beautiful body of water is the largest alpine lake in North America. Visit these bodies of water to experience the clearest, most sparkling lakes in the entire country! From Lake Tahoe to Lake George, plenty of great scenery and fun awaits. Lakes provide tons of fun to travelers, whether you want to go fishing, boating, or swimming.
