The 8 best lakes in America for a summer vacation
From mountain retreats to classic Midwestern getaways, these lakes are perfect for swimming, paddling, and unwinding this summer
When summer sets in, there’s nothing better than a lakeside escape. The best lakes offer more than just a place to cool off — they’re destinations for swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, and unwinding.
Travel company Lonely Planet created a list of the best lakes for a summer vacation. Continue reading to see which destinations made the cut and why.
2 / 9
#8: Grand Lake, Colorado
james_lamere / Getty Images
The largest natural body of water in Colorado, Grand Lake is located in the headwaters of the Colorado River and is known for its clear waters and gorgeous views. It's also right next to the entrance to Rocky Mountain State Park.
3 / 9
#7: Lake Washington, Washington
Mike Reid Photography / Getty Images
Sandwiched between Seattle and Bellevue, Lake Washington has the perfect combination of nature and city. Lonely Planet praised its beaches and plethora of activities, placing it seventh on its list.
4 / 9
#6: Lake Chelan, Washington
Lisay / Getty Images
Also in Washington, Lake Chelan is the north-central part of the state and is often compared to the fjords of Scandinavia. It's the site of many vineyards, if you want to have a glass of wine by its shore. Lonely Planet ranked it sixth on its list.
5 / 9
#5: Lake Michigan
Posnov / Getty Images
It's no surprise Lake Michigan made Lonely Planet's list. It offers urban beaches in Chicago and gorgeous, remote shores further north. Lonely Planet suggests vacationers explore the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakefront in Michigan, where tall sand dunes meet the lake's edge.
6 / 9
#4: Cayuga Lake, New York
Zia Soleil / Getty Images
One of New York's 11 finger lakes, Cayuga Lake was ranked fourth by Lonely Planet. "The Finger Lakes are like New York's answer to Napa," the company said. "More than 100 vineyards blanket the region, and on the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, you can taste what these vineyards do best: riesling, pinot gris and cabernet franc." Lonely Planet also recommends a hike through Taughannock Falls State Park.
7 / 9
#3: Lake George, New York
Jerry Trudell the Skys the Limit / Getty Images
In the heart of New York's Adirondacks, Lake George took the third spot, winning Lonely Planet's praises. "No matter where you venture, the lake remains a centerpiece of activity; boats cruise across the lakes with squealing participants tugged behind or soaring a few feet above the water," it said.
8 / 9
#2: Lake Champlain, Vermont and New York
Barry Winiker / Getty Images
Lake Champlain, which sits in New York and Vermont, has everything you could ask for: beautiful scenery, great swimming, and a great, small city in Burlington, Vermont. "Lean into lake life by staying on one of Champlain's many islands," Lonely Planet recommends.
9 / 9
#1: Bear Lake, Utah and Idaho
Lauriann Wakefield / 500px / Getty Images
Bear Lake, located on the border of Utah and Idaho, took the top spot. "Gazing out over the expanse of Bear Lake, you'd be forgiven if you thought you were in the Caribbean" Lonely Planet said. "Limestone gives this gem its distinctly turquoise hue, making it a fascinating visit – particularly as it’s situated just about as inland as you can get."