Michigan’s Great Lakes
Michigan is home to some of the largest lakes in the world, collectively known as the Great Lakes. These interconnected freshwater lakes are a major feature of the state’s geography, attracting millions of visitors each year. Michigan is the only state to border four of the Great Lakes: Superior, Michigan, Huron, and Erie, as well as Lake Saint Clair.
What Makes a Lake "Largest"?
Determining the largest lake is not as simple as it seems. A lake’s size can be measured in several ways, including surface area, volume, and depth. Surface area, which measures the total area of a lake’s surface, is the most commonly used measurement for determining a lake’s size. However, it is worth noting that a lake’s size can change over time due to natural and human factors such as erosion, sedimentation, and climate change.
Lake Michigan: A Contender
Lake Michigan is the third-largest Great Lake by surface area, covering over 22,400 square miles. It is the only Great Lake entirely within the United States, bordering Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin. Despite its size, Lake Michigan is often overlooked in discussions of the largest lakes in Michigan, due in part to its similar size to neighboring Lake Huron.
Lake Superior: The Favorite
Lake Superior is widely considered the largest of the Great Lakes and the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area. Covering over 31,700 square miles, it is the second-largest lake in the world by surface area, behind only the Caspian Sea. Lake Superior is located on the border between the United States and Canada, and is shared by the states of Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, as well as the Canadian province of Ontario.
Comparing Lake Michigan and Lake Superior
While Lake Michigan covers a large area, it is significantly smaller than Lake Superior in terms of surface area, which is why Lake Superior is considered the largest of the Great Lakes. Lake Superior is also deeper and has a larger volume than Lake Michigan. However, Lake Michigan has a longer shoreline, and its beaches are popular with tourists and residents alike.
Lake Huron: A Strong Third Place
Lake Huron is the second-largest of the Great Lakes by surface area and covers over 23,000 square miles. It is located on the border between the United States and Canada, and is shared by the states of Michigan and Wisconsin, as well as the Canadian province of Ontario. Lake Huron is known for its clear, blue waters and is a popular destination for boating and fishing.
The Other Great Lakes
While Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, and Lake Huron are the largest of the Great Lakes, Lake Erie and Lake Ontario are also significant bodies of water. Lake Erie is the fourth-largest of the Great Lakes by surface area and is located between the United States and Canada, while Lake Ontario is the smallest of the Great Lakes by surface area but has the greatest depth.
Inland Lakes in Michigan
Michigan is also home to numerous inland lakes, many of which are popular for swimming, boating, and fishing. Some of the largest inland lakes in Michigan include Houghton Lake, Higgins Lake, and Torch Lake. These lakes vary in size and depth, but they all contribute to Michigan’s reputation as a water-rich state.
What About Lake Michigan-Huron?
Lake Michigan and Lake Huron are technically considered a single body of water due to their connection at the Straits of Mackinac, which has led to some debate over whether they should be considered a single lake. However, most sources consider them separate lakes, and they are often referred to as Lake Michigan-Huron in discussions of the Great Lakes.
Conclusion: The Largest Lake in Michigan
While Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, and Lake Huron are all significant bodies of water, Lake Superior is generally considered the largest of the Great Lakes and the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area. However, the other lakes all have unique features and attractions that make them popular with visitors. Regardless of which lake is the largest, Michigan’s Great Lakes are a vital natural resource and a source of pride for residents of the state.
Bonus: Lake Michigan’s Record-Breaking Waves
In addition to its size, Lake Michigan is known for its occasional record-breaking waves. In 2011, the lake experienced waves as high as 20 feet during a storm, causing damage to the shoreline and attracting surfers from around the world. While such waves are rare, they serve as a reminder of the power and unpredictability of the Great Lakes.
Further Reading: Michigan’s Great Lakes Commission
For more information on Michigan’s Great Lakes and efforts to protect and manage them, visit the Michigan Great Lakes Commission. This organization works to promote sustainable use and conservation of the Great Lakes and their resources, and provides a wealth of information on the lakes’ ecology, history, and importance to the region.