Michigan is known for its abundant natural beauty, and its numerous lakes are a testament to that. With over 11,000 inland lakes, it’s no wonder that Michigan is often referred to as the “Great Lakes State.” From small, secluded bodies of water to massive, picturesque lakes, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the top-rated lakes in Michigan is Lake Michigan itself. With its crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches, it’s a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re looking to relax on the shore or partake in water sports such as kayaking or fishing, Lake Michigan offers endless possibilities for outdoor enthusiasts.
For those seeking a more tranquil experience, Torch Lake is another top-rated lake worth visiting. With its stunning turquoise waters and beautiful surrounding countryside, it’s no wonder that Torch Lake is often referred to as the “Caribbean of the Midwest.” Nature lovers will appreciate the peacefulness of this lake, as well as the opportunity to spot wildlife such as bald eagles and loons.
If you’re a fishing enthusiast, Houghton Lake is a must-visit destination. Known as the largest inland lake in Michigan, Houghton Lake offers some of the best fishing opportunities in the state. With an abundance of perch, bluegill, and walleye, it’s no wonder that anglers flock to this lake year-round.
These are just a few examples of the top-rated lakes in Michigan, but there are many more to explore. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Michigan’s lakes have something for everyone. So grab your sunscreen, pack your swimsuit, and start exploring the natural wonders that Michigan has to offer.
The Best Lakes in Michigan
Michigan is known for its incredible freshwater lakes, and it’s no wonder why. With over 11,000 lakes in the state, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a place to enjoy water activities, Michigan has the perfect lake for you.
1. Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan is the second largest of the Great Lakes and offers a variety of recreational activities. From swimming and boating to fishing and hiking, there is something for everyone. The beaches along Lake Michigan are also some of the most beautiful in the state, with soft white sand and stunning sunsets.
2. Torch Lake
Torch Lake is one of the most popular and picturesque lakes in Michigan. Known for its crystal clear turquoise waters, Torch Lake is a favorite destination for boating, swimming, and water sports. The lake is also surrounded by beautiful vacation homes and cottages, making it a great spot for a weekend getaway.
3. Higgins Lake
Higgins Lake is often referred to as one of Michigan’s clearest lakes. With its crystal clear waters and sandy beaches, it’s no wonder why it’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The lake is also a popular spot for fishing, with ample opportunities to catch trout, pike, and walleye.
4. Glen Lake
Glen Lake is located in the heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and is known for its stunning blue-green waters and sandy shores. The lake is surrounded by beautiful forests and dunes, making it a great spot for hiking and camping. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular activities on Glen Lake.
5. Lake Charlevoix
Lake Charlevoix is a large, inland lake located in Charlevoix County. It is known for its scenic beauty and clear waters. The lake offers ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The charming town of Charlevoix, with its unique shops and restaurants, is also worth exploring.
These are just a few of the best lakes in Michigan, but there are many others to discover. Whether you’re a nature lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a beautiful place to relax, Michigan has a lake that will suit your needs.
Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan is one of the top-rated lakes in Michigan and is the second largest of the Great Lakes by volume. Its impressive size, combined with its stunning natural beauty, make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The lake spans across the states of Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin, offering numerous opportunities for recreation and leisure. It is famous for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and picturesque sunsets.
Boating and fishing are among the favorite activities on Lake Michigan. The lake is home to a wide variety of fish species, including trout, salmon, and bass, making it a paradise for anglers. Boaters can enjoy sailing, kayaking, and jet-skiing, exploring the vast expanse of the lake and its many islands.
For nature enthusiasts, Lake Michigan’s shoreline is a haven of biodiversity. The lake’s surrounding areas are dotted with stunning state parks and nature reserves, where visitors can explore miles of hiking trails, go birdwatching, or simply relax in the tranquility of the great outdoors.
One of the most popular destinations on Lake Michigan is the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, known for its towering sand dunes and breathtaking views of the lake. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is another must-visit spot, featuring colorful cliffs, pristine beaches, and unique rock formations.
From swimming and sunbathing to wildlife spotting and scenic drives, Lake Michigan offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure or simply a place to unwind, this magnificent lake is sure to leave a lasting impression.
| Key Facts about Lake Michigan | |
|---|---|
| Size | 22,404 square miles |
| Maximum Depth | 923 feet |
| Length of Shoreline | 1,640 miles |
| States Bordering | Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin |
| Major Cities | Chicago, Milwaukee, Green Bay |
Lake Superior
Lake Superior is the largest of the Great Lakes of North America and is also the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area. It is located on the border of the United States and Canada, with the majority of its shoreline being in the U.S. state of Michigan.
Known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning natural beauty, Lake Superior is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The lake’s rugged coastline is dotted with picturesque lighthouses, sandy beaches, and rocky cliffs, providing a perfect backdrop for activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and kayaking.
The lake is home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, white-tailed deer, and black bears. It also offers excellent opportunities for bird-watching, with over 300 species of birds being spotted in the area.
One of the most famous attractions of Lake Superior is the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, located along the lake’s southern coast. This stunning stretch of shoreline features towering sandstone cliffs, vibrant rock formations, and beautiful waterfalls, making it a must-visit destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the wilderness, or simply enjoy the breathtaking views, Lake Superior has something for everyone. Its unique combination of natural beauty and recreational opportunities make it a top-rated lake in Michigan and a truly unforgettable destination.
Torch Lake
Torch Lake is one of the most picturesque lakes in Michigan, known for its crystal clear blue waters and sandy beaches. Located in Antrim County, Torch Lake spans nearly 19 miles and reaches depths of up to 285 feet, making it one of the deepest inland lakes in the state.
With its vibrant turquoise hues, Torch Lake has been dubbed the “Caribbean of the Midwest” by locals and visitors alike. The lake is popular for a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming. Its sandy shoreline is perfect for sunbathing and picnicking, while its cool waters provide a refreshing respite on hot summer days.
Torch Lake is also home to several charming lakeside towns, such as Alden and Torch Lake Township, which offer quaint shops, restaurants, and marinas. The area is known for its relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making it a favorite destination for families and vacationers.
Whether you’re looking to explore the beautiful waters, relax on the beach, or simply enjoy the scenic views, Torch Lake is a must-visit destination in Michigan. Its natural beauty and recreational opportunities make it one of the top-rated lakes in the state.
Higgins Lake
Higgins Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Michigan. It is located in Roscommon County and is known for its crystal-clear water and sandy beaches. The lake is surrounded by dense forests, creating a serene and picturesque setting.
Higgins Lake is also a popular spot for outdoor activities. Visitors can go swimming, fishing, kayaking, and boating on the lake. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, making it a great destination for anglers.
One of the main attractions of Higgins Lake is its camping opportunities. There are several campgrounds located near the lake, offering a chance to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the peacefulness of the surroundings.
If you’re a nature lover, be sure to explore the hiking trails around Higgins Lake. These trails offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. You might even spot some wildlife along the way.
Overall, Higgins Lake is a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the beauty of Michigan’s lakes. Its clear water, sandy beaches, and abundant recreational opportunities make it a perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Lake Huron
Lake Huron is one of the five Great Lakes of North America. It is located between the Canadian province of Ontario and the U.S. state of Michigan. With a surface area of about 59,596 square kilometers, Lake Huron is the second largest of the Great Lakes by surface area. The lake is known for its beautiful blue waters and scenic shoreline.
One of the most popular activities on Lake Huron is boating. Whether you have a sailboat, motorboat, or kayak, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the lake and its many islands. The lake is also great for fishing, with a variety of fish species including salmon, trout, and walleye.
If you prefer to stay on land, Lake Huron has many beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun. The Sandy Beach in Oscoda is a favorite spot for families, with its picnic areas and playgrounds. For a more secluded beach experience, head to Tawas Point State Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful day by the water.
The Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, located off the coast of Alpena, is a must-visit attraction for those interested in maritime history. The sanctuary protects the shipwrecks of over 200 vessels that sank in the area, making it a paradise for divers and snorkelers.
| Location | Between Ontario, Canada and Michigan, USA |
|---|---|
| Surface Area | 59,596 square kilometers |
| Activities | Boating, fishing, beach-going, diving |
| Notable Feature | Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary |
Overall, Lake Huron offers a wide range of recreational activities and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, this Great Lake has something for everyone.
Glen Lake
Glen Lake is a stunning freshwater lake located in Leelanau County, Michigan. It is known for its crystal-clear blue waters and picturesque surroundings, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The lake spans over 4,800 acres and is divided into two bodies of water, Big Glen Lake and Little Glen Lake. Big Glen Lake is larger and deeper, while Little Glen Lake is smaller and shallower. Both lakes are connected by a channel known as “The Narrows”.
Glen Lake offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. Swimming, boating, and fishing are popular pastimes on the lake. The lake is home to a diverse range of fish species, including trout, bass, and walleye. Anglers can try their luck at catching a trophy-sized fish.
In addition to water activities, Glen Lake is surrounded by beautiful beaches and hiking trails. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the shore, soak up the sun on the sandy beaches, or explore the nearby dunes. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, one of Michigan’s most iconic natural landmarks, is located just a short drive from Glen Lake.
For those seeking a more relaxed experience, Glen Lake offers breathtaking sunset views. The calm waters reflect the vibrant colors of the sky, creating a mesmerizing display. It is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Whether you are looking for an action-packed adventure or a peaceful retreat, Glen Lake has something for everyone. With its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, it is no wonder why Glen Lake is one of the top-rated lakes in Michigan.
Silver Lake
Silver Lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in Michigan. Located in Oceana County, this beautiful lake offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages.
One of the main attractions of Silver Lake is its stunning sand dunes. The Silver Lake Sand Dunes, also known as the Silver Lake State Park, feature massive sand dunes that stretch for miles along the shoreline. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, sandboarding, and off-roading on the dunes. The park also offers camping facilities for those who want to spend more time exploring the area.
For water lovers, Silver Lake is perfect for boating, swimming, and fishing. The lake is known for its clear waters and sandy beaches, making it a great spot for swimming and relaxing. Anglers can try their luck at catching fish such as bass, pike, and walleye.
In addition to its natural beauty, Silver Lake also has a vibrant community. Visitors can explore the nearby towns of Mears and Hart, which offer a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. The Silver Lake area is also home to several annual events, including the Silver Lake Sand Dunes Jeep Invasion, where Jeep enthusiasts gather to show off their vehicles and take part in off-roading activities.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or simply a peaceful retreat in nature, Silver Lake has something to offer. Its breathtaking sand dunes, scenic beauty, and recreational activities make it a top-rated lake in Michigan.
Houghton Lake
Houghton Lake is one of Michigan’s largest inland lakes. It covers an area of over 20,000 acres, making it a popular destination for water sports and outdoor activities. The lake is located in Roscommon County and is surrounded by charming small towns and beautiful natural scenery.
One of the main attractions of Houghton Lake is its fishing opportunities. The lake is known for its abundance of fish species, including walleye, bass, pike, and panfish. Anglers can enjoy fishing from shore or by boat, and there are several marinas and boat rental services available.
In addition to fishing, Houghton Lake offers a variety of water activities such as boating, jet skiing, and kayaking. The lake has numerous public access points and parks where visitors can launch their boats or rent equipment. There are also several sandy beaches along the lake’s shore, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
For those who prefer land-based activities, the Houghton Lake area has plenty to offer as well. The surrounding towns have a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions that cater to visitors. There are also several hiking and biking trails in the area, providing opportunities to explore the scenic beauty of Northern Michigan.
Overall, Houghton Lake is a top-rated destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you are looking to fish, swim, boat, or simply relax by the water, Houghton Lake has something for everyone.
Burt Lake
Burt Lake is one of the largest inland lakes in Michigan, located in Cheboygan County. It is part of the well-known Inland Waterway, a series of connected rivers and lakes that allows boaters to travel from Lake Huron to Lake Michigan. Burt Lake covers an area of approximately 17,120 acres and has a maximum depth of 73 feet.
Surrounded by picturesque scenery, Burt Lake offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors. Boating, fishing, and swimming are popular on the lake, and there are several public access points and boat launches available. Anglers can find a wide range of fish species in the lake, including walleye, northern pike, and muskellunge.
The shoreline of Burt Lake is dotted with charming cottages and vacation homes, making it a popular destination for summer getaways. Many of these properties offer stunning views of the lake and its surrounding nature. In addition to the lake itself, the area around Burt Lake is home to several nature preserves and hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore the beauty of Northern Michigan.
Burt Lake State Park is located on the eastern shore of the lake and offers camping facilities for those who want to extend their stay. The park has a sandy beach area, picnic sites, and a playground, making it a great place for families to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The sunsets over Burt Lake are known for their beauty, and many visitors gather along the shoreline to watch the sky change colors as the sun dips below the horizon.
Overall, Burt Lake is a top-rated destination for those seeking outdoor recreation, scenic beauty, and a peaceful retreat. Whether you’re a boater, fisherman, or nature enthusiast, Burt Lake has something to offer for everyone.
Walloon Lake
Located in Northern Michigan, Walloon Lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and water sports lovers. With its crystal clear waters and stunning natural surroundings, it’s no wonder why this lake is considered one of the top-rated in Michigan.
Walloon Lake offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. You can go fishing, boating, or kayaking in the calm waters of the lake. The lake is also a great spot for swimming, with its sandy beaches and shallow areas perfect for families with children.
If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, you can simply sit back and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the lake. The peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking scenery make Walloon Lake a favorite spot for picnics and sunset watching.
In addition to its natural beauty, Walloon Lake is surrounded by charming small towns and resorts. These nearby communities offer a range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and accommodations for those wishing to extend their stay.
Whether you’re looking to have an adventure-filled day on the water or simply unwind and admire the serene surroundings, Walloon Lake is a must-visit destination in Michigan.
Pere Marquette Lake
Pere Marquette Lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and other water activities in Michigan. This beautiful lake is located in Mason County, near the city of Ludington.
One of the highlights of Pere Marquette Lake is its stunning natural scenery. Surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests, the lake offers a picturesque backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re cruising on a boat or relaxing on the shore, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The lake is also known for its excellent fishing opportunities. Pere Marquette Lake is home to a variety of fish species, including trout, salmon, walleye, and bass. Anglers of all skill levels will enjoy casting their lines into the crystal-clear waters of the lake.
For those who prefer a more active experience, Pere Marquette Lake offers plenty of opportunities for sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The calm waters and gentle breezes make it an ideal spot for water sports enthusiasts. Additionally, there are several marinas and boat rental services available for those who don’t have their own watercraft.
Pere Marquette Lake is not only popular for its outdoor activities but also for its proximity to other attractions. The nearby Ludington State Park offers miles of hiking trails, sandy beaches, and scenic viewpoints. Visitors can also take a short drive to the historic Big Sable Point Lighthouse for a unique and memorable experience.
Overall, Pere Marquette Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that Michigan has to offer. Whether you’re a fishing enthusiast, a water sports lover, or simply someone who appreciates stunning landscapes, this lake has something for everyone.
Gull Lake
Gull Lake is one of the top-rated lakes in Michigan. It is located in Kalamazoo County and offers residents and visitors a variety of recreational activities.
With a surface area of 2,030 acres, Gull Lake is perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake is home to a wide range of fish species, including largemouth bass, northern pike, and bluegill.
Surrounded by picturesque scenery, Gull Lake is also a popular spot for hiking and birdwatching. Nature enthusiasts can explore the surrounding trails and observe a variety of bird species.
The lake is also known for its sandy beaches, which provide a perfect spot for sunbathing and picnicking. Visitors can relax on the shores while enjoying beautiful views of the crystal-clear water.
In addition to its natural beauty, Gull Lake also offers a variety of amenities. There are several marinas and boat launches available for those who want to explore the lake by boat. The lake is also home to a number of resorts and vacation rentals, making it a popular destination for tourists.
Overall, Gull Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational activities that Michigan has to offer.
FAQs
What are some top-rated lakes in Michigan?
Some of the top-rated lakes in Michigan include Torch Lake, Higgins Lake, and Lake Charlevoix.
Why are Torch Lake, Higgins Lake, and Lake Charlevoix considered top-rated?
Torch Lake is known for its clear blue waters and sandbars, Higgins Lake is known for its crystal-clear water and sandy beaches, and Lake Charlevoix is known for its scenic beauty and opportunities for boating and fishing.
Are these lakes suitable for swimming?
Yes, these lakes are suitable for swimming. They have clear waters and sandy beaches, making them perfect for a refreshing swim.
What recreational activities can be done on these lakes?
These lakes offer a variety of recreational activities such as boating, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and water skiing.
Are there any camping options near these lakes?
Yes, there are camping options near these lakes. There are several campgrounds and RV parks where visitors can stay and enjoy the natural beauty of the lakes.
What are some of the top-rated lakes in Michigan?
Some of the top-rated lakes in Michigan include Torch Lake, Higgins Lake, Glen Lake, Lake Charlevoix, and Silver Lake.
