Formed after the last Ice Age, the Great Lakes of Superior, Michigan, Ontario, Huron, and Eerie today hold over 20% of the earth’s freshwater and offer over 95,000 square miles of watery playground for adults and children alike. But visitors won’t be alone – the area is also a crucial wildlife habitat, home to scores of moose, eagles, and even bears.
The Great Lakes boast crystal clear waters, fascinating glacial rock formations, miles of sandy beaches, quaint lakeside towns, and underwater treasures just waiting to be explored. Each of the lakes has its own distinct personality, too, offering something for everyone. Let’s take a look at 10 of the Great Lakes highlights for water lovers...
10 Explore The Shipwrecks Of Lake Superior
Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area, and this vast open expanse of water can be subject to treacherous conditions in winter. This has led to the many historic shipwrecks dotted around the lake that today are perfect for exploring, such as The Bermuda, a 150-foot-long schooner that sank in 1870. Shipwreck scuba diving trips regularly head out from the lakeside town of Munising, MI, but glass-bottom boat tours are also an option for those who want to see the underwater wonders without getting wet.
9 Hike The Dunes At Indiana Dunes National Park
This immense national park was established in 1925 and today boasts over 50 miles of trails leading through sifting sand dunes, woodlands, and prairies, all with the stunning backdrop of Lake Michigan. There are plenty of accommodation and dining options in nearby Chesterton, IN, like the Red Cup Café & Deli, which serves up hearty, home-cooked delights.
8 Kick Back In Leland, Michigan
Leland is a picturesque town nestled on a sliver of land between Lake Michigan and Lake Leelanau. It’s home to the atmospheric Fishtown, with its lakefront promenade where hungry travelers can sample freshly smoked fish. With its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, Leland can get crowded in summer, but it's still possible to escape the crowds if visiting in spring to be delighted by the colorful wildflowers or later in the year to be surrounded by the fiery reds and oranges of autumn.
7 Bathe In The Caribbean-esque Waters Of Torch Lake, Michigan
Renting a boat and spending the day bobbing on the impossibly turquoise waters of Torch Lake is one of the best ways to experience the Great Lakes. Most visitors tend to congregate around the stunning sandbar, but at 19 miles long and two miles wide, there is plenty of room around the lake to spread out. It's not all peace and quiet though - the area is known for some spectacular parties, particularly its annual 4th of July fireworks show.
6 Kayak Around Apostle Islands National Park
This stunning 21-island archipelago is one of the jewels of Lake Superior. The numerous cliffs and sea caves are just crying out to be explored by kayak. Despite the significant bald eagle and black bear populations in the area, overnight camping in the wilderness is still an option too. While for those who would rather keep their feet dry, there are plenty of hiking trails to be found.
5 Go Chasing Waterfalls In Gooseberry Falls National Park
Gooseberry Falls National Park is home to some of Minnesota’s most impressive waterfalls, which can be reached by following a wide variety of family-friendly trails through the forest. The national park is located close to the town of Two Harbors, MI, and also to Split Rock Lighthouse, which offers unbeatable views of the shoreline and is one of the top things to do in Minnesota.
4 Get Your Thrills In Lake Eerie, Ohio
Lake Eerie, the southernmost Great Lake, has it all – from remote beaches to quaint lakeside towns and everything in between. The rows of Victorian B&Bs lining the shore provide a nostalgic look at times gone by, and thrill-seekers will love the Cedar Point Amusement Park. Water-based activities like kiteboarding, parasailing, and wakeboarding, are plentiful on Lake Eerie too.
3 Tuck Into Fresh Fish In Grand Marais, Michigan
From the lake’s colonies of playful otters to one of the oldest artist communities in Minnesota, this picturesque lakeside village has plenty to offer, both in and out of the water. Visitors shouldn't miss the popular Angry Trout Café, where freshly caught fish from the lake is grilled every day. It’s wise to book in advance – this place is popular, and deservedly so!
2 Admire The Beauty Of Isle Royale National Park
Located on Lake Superior, MI, Isle Royale National Park is made up of one main island (the fourth-largest island lake in the world) and over 400 minor outlying islands. Only accessible by boat or seaplane, this remote and rugged national park is home to a host of wildlife, including wolves and moose. Getting away from it all comes with a price. However, the daily entrance fee is $7 per person.
1 Discover Pictured Rocks National Park By Kayak
On the shore of Lake Superior, MI, Pictured Rocks National Park takes visitors' breaths away. The best way to view the stunning 200-foot-high cliffs and unique rock formations is by taking to the water in a kayak. Kayaking tours are available for $60-80 per person and head out along the 15 miles of gorgeous shoreline between Sand Point and Little Beaver Lake.