Whether they’re natural or man-made, America’s lakes provide some of the best views and photographs you can imagine. Clear, sapphire waters, grassy hills, and lush forests are just a few of the sights you can expect to find exploring the United States’ five most beautiful lakes.
Lake Havasu, California
Lake Havasu is a man-made lake and was created when the Colorado River was dammed in the 1930s. It boasts over 40 campsites where lake lovers can fish, boat, and hike. Since this lake is located in the Sonoran Desert, it’s an extremely popular place for people to visit during the intensely hot summer. The lake’s most notable feature is most likely it’s stunning blue-green water.
Lake Austin, Texas
Also part of the Colorado River, Lake Austin is located in Texas and serves as a welcome relief to the dusty heat. The lake is open to kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. It is well-stocked with species like largemouth bass, sunfish, and catfish. It also has a gorgeous spa resort featuring luxury treatments, steam rooms, and award-winning swimming pools.
Scargo Lake, Massachusetts
With surrounding views of Cape Cod, Scargo Lake can be found at the bottom of Scargo Hill and enveloped in a forest that erupts in color during the autumn months. If you’re ready for a hike, you can climb Scargo Tower, a 30-foot cobblestone tower on top of Scargo Hill, and get a panoramic view of the lake.
The United States’ Five Most Beautiful Lakes: Skilak Lake
Skilak Lake, Alaska
Most of the lakes on this list feature lush greenery, but it’s a little different in Alaska. You can see snowy mountains from every angle on the lake, and the water is unusually clear due to the fact no aquatic vegetation grows in the freezing water.
Lake Tahoe, Nevada
This famous lake is right on the border between Nevada and California, in the Sierra Nevada. Photographers have captured a myriad of colors on the lake, from rich blue-green to silvery blue. The area is exceptionally sunny, with three out of every four days seeing sunlight. National Geographic has featured Lake Tahoe several times, including photos of star trails over the lake.
