Summer is the perfect time for sun-soaked days on the water. America’s most beautiful lakes are home to unforgettable scenery and endless ways to relax and explore. From peaceful shorelines to abundant outdoor adventures, these iconic destinations showcase the natural beauty that makes traveling so rewarding.
Are you ready to make a splash this summer? Keep reading to discover America’s most beautiful lakes to visit this summer!
Garrett County, Maryland
Where can you find rolling mountains, swift rivers, and beautiful lakes? Garrett County, Maryland!
Garrett County, Maryland is a four-season destination that truly shines in the summer. At its heart is Deep Creek Lake. The 3,900-acre man-made reservoir offers 69 miles of shoreline and plenty of summer fun.
Summer Recreation
The best days are lake days! If you want to cool off this summer and have lots of fun, Deep Creek Lake is the place to be.
Maryland’s largest freshwater lake is ideal for fishing, boating, kayaking and swimming. The calm shores are great for family get-togethers, while the open water is perfect for everything from casting a line to tubing and wakeboarding.
Are you ready to spend your summer days in the water? Grab your swimsuit and sunscreen and head to Deep Creek Lake. Request your free print and downloadable Official Garrett County & Deep Creek Lake Visitors Guide today!
Cayuga County, New York
The Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York is known for its 11 glacier-carved lakes. Spanning 14 counties, it is the top destination for lake lovers.
Cayuga County, in New York’s Finger Lakes region, boasts more freshwater coastline than any other county in New York. It is bounded to the north by Lake Ontario and is home to eight more lakes, including three of the Finger Lakes, making it the perfect destination for anyone who wants to get out on the water.
Owasco Lake
The sixth largest of the Finger Lakes, Owasco Lake is perfect for swimming and boating in the summer thanks to its shallow, warm water. It is also a great place to cast a line thanks to the large variety of fish that call it home. Anglers come to the lake to catch walleye, perch, smallmouth bass, trout, Northern Pike, and salmon.
Cayuga Lake
Cayuga Lake is stunning. The longest and second deepest of the Finger Lakes, Cayuga Lake is meant to be explored. To truly appreciate the beauty of the lake, take a day to drive the Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway! The 87-mile loop circles Cayuga Lake and offers picturesque views of the lake, surrounding woodlands, and numerous other attractions.
Skaneateles Lake
Skaneateles Lake is one of the cleanest and most pristine lakes in the country. In addition to its clear and pure water, this 17-mile-long lake is also known for its warm and cold-water fishing opportunities.
Cayuga County is the place to go for scenic waterways and outdoor adventure! Now is the time to get your free print and downloadable Cayuga County Travel Guide!
Olympic Peninsula, Washington
Washington’s Olympic Peninsula is a destination unlike any other! It spans nearly a million acres and is home to three distinct ecosystems, wondrous waterfalls, ocean beaches, and pristine mountain lakes.
Lake Crescent
Shaped by glaciers and fed by mountain streams, Lake Crescent’s beautiful blue waters entice visitors from near and far. Surrounding the lake are a number of hiking trails that can take visitors either high into the surrounding mountains or through the lowland forests and creeks. Some of the top trails include Barnes Creek and Spruce Railroad. Other favorite activities include kayaking, sailing, and relaxing along the shores.
Lake Quinault
Surrounded by the lush Quinault Rainforest, Lake Quinault is an ideal destination for outdoor lovers. This serene spot is home to towering trees, misty trails, and soothing waters. For a truly scenic tour of the area, drive the Quinault Lake Loop Drive. The 30-mile loop circles the lakes and will take you past breathtaking waterfalls, historic landmarks, and picturesque views of the Quinault Valley. It is best to take your time while exploring the area on one (or many) of the distinctive hiking trails.
Lake Crescent and Lake Quinault are great places to visit! Plan your trip today with a free print and downloadable Olympic Peninsula Travel Guide.
Orleans County, New York
Are you hooked on fishing? Then Lake Ontario is the lake for you!
Lake Ontario is the smallest of the Great Lakes by surface area, yet it is relatively deep, with an average depth of 283 feet. It is home to the Thousand Islands, a popular destination for boating and tourism. It also supports a diverse ecosystem, making it the perfect destination for a sportfishing vacation.
Sportfishing
Lake Ontario is a top-rated, year-round fishing destination. Novice and experienced anglers alike visit the lake for its sportfishing opportunities. The lake is home to an abundance of fish, including smallmouth bass, walleye, lake trout, whitefish, burbot, yellow perch, rainbow smelt, and non-native salmon.
Are you ready to start planning your Orleans County fishing adventure? Get your free print and downloadable Orleans County Sportfishing Guide today!
White Mountains, New Hampshire
New Hampshire’s White Mountains are beautiful! This stunning mountain region is home to the northeast’s highest peak, Mt. Washington, acres and acres of memorable mountain views, and countless natural attractions, including its beautiful lakes.
Lakes Region
New Hampshire’s Lakes Region features a number of gorgeous lakes including Squam Lake, Newfound Lake, Ossipee Lake, Lake Sunapee, and Lake Winnipesaukee. During the summer months and warmer days of fall, the Lakes Region is a popular spot for boating, waterskiing, wakesurfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
A trip to the lake wouldn’t be complete without a stroll along the boardwalk. The Weirs Beach boardwalk is more than 1,300 feet long and provides amazing views and ample entertainment. During your stroll, be sure to check out the arcades, gift shops, and more. If you stop at Winnipesaukee Pier, you can find food, arcades, shops, and boat rentals. If you stroll to the other end of the boardwalk, you can catch a movie at the Weirs Beach Drive-in Theater.
Now is the time to make lasting memories in the White Mountains! Get your free print and downloadable White Mountains, New Hampshire Travel Guide today!
Glacier Country, Montana
There is no place in the world like Western Montana’s Glacier Country! Western Montana is millions of acres of stunning scenery and pristine wilderness areas.
Flathead Lake
Flathead Lake is the largest natural body of freshwater in the West. The stunning lake reflects the equally stunning backdrop of snowcapped peaks, forested terrain, and endless blue sky. It is also one of the cleanest and clearest lakes in the world. During the summer months, it is possible to see through twenty feet of the water column.
Flathead Lake is also a top spot for outdoor recreation. Visitors come from all over the world to swim, fish, boat, float, kayak, sail, and paddleboard in the ancient lake. If you are new to the area, consider taking a boat tour or exploring with a knowledgeable and trained guide.
What are you waiting for? Request your free print and downloadable guide to Western Montana’s Glacier Country!
Life Is Better at the Lake!
Whether you’re drawn to peaceful mornings on the water or thrilling days filled with outdoor adventure, America’s most beautiful lakes offer something for everyone. This summer, make time to enjoy some of the country’s most breathtaking destinations. Your unforgettable lake escape is waiting!
Looking for more lovely lake destinations? Check out all of our free print and downloadable travel guides!