Planning Your Trip
When planning your trip to the Great Lakes, it's essential to consider the time of year you visit. Summer is the peak tourist season, with warm weather and long days perfect for outdoor activities like swimming, boating, and hiking. However, if you're looking for a more peaceful experience, consider visiting during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October). These periods offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and exploration. When choosing which Great Lakes to visit, consider your interests and the activities you want to enjoy. For example, if you're an avid sailor, Lake Michigan is the perfect destination, with its vast shoreline and numerous marinas. On the other hand, if you're looking for stunning scenery, Lake Superior is a must-visit, with its picturesque rocky coastlines and crystal-clear waters.Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan is the second-largest of the Great Lakes by volume and the only Great Lake located entirely within the United States. With a shoreline that stretches over 1,640 miles, Lake Michigan offers a diverse range of activities and experiences. From swimming and surfing in the warm waters of the southern shore to exploring the scenic coastal towns of the north, there's something for everyone on Lake Michigan.- Visit the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan, featuring towering sand dunes and crystal-clear waters.
- Explore the vibrant city of Chicago, with its stunning architecture and world-class museums.
- Take a scenic drive along the Lake Michigan shoreline, stopping at quaint towns and beaches along the way.
Lake Superior
Lake Superior is the largest of the Great Lakes by surface area and is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery. Located in the northern United States and southern Canada, Lake Superior is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. From hiking and camping to kayaking and fishing, there's no shortage of activities to enjoy on Lake Superior.- Visit the Apostle Islands, a group of 22 islands in Lake Superior, featuring stunning sandstone formations and crystal-clear waters.
- Explore the scenic Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan, featuring towering sandstone cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
- Take a scenic drive along the Lake Superior shoreline, stopping at quaint towns and beaches along the way.
Lake Huron
- Visit the Mackinac Island, a charming island in Michigan featuring historic architecture and scenic hiking trails.
- Explore the beautiful sand beaches of the Lake Huron shoreline, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Take a scenic drive along the Lake Huron shoreline, stopping at quaint towns and historic sites along the way.
Lake Erie
Lake Erie is the shallowest and southernmost of the Great Lakes, located in the northern United States and southern Canada. Known for its vibrant culture and stunning scenery, Lake Erie is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and foodies. From swimming and boating to fishing and hiking, there's something for everyone on Lake Erie.- Visit the beautiful Put-in-Bay, a charming island in Ohio featuring historic architecture and scenic hiking trails.
- Explore the vibrant city of Cleveland, with its world-class museums and stunning architecture.
- Take a scenic drive along the Lake Erie shoreline, stopping at quaint towns and beaches along the way.
Lake Ontario
| Great Lake | Surface Area (sq mi) | Average Depth (ft) | Maximum Depth (ft) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Superior | 31,700 | 282 | 1,332 |
| Lake Michigan | 22,400 | 279 | 925 |
| Lake Huron | 23,000 | 195 | 750 |
| Lake Erie | 9,900 | 95 | 210 |
| Lake Ontario | 9,300 | 802 | 802 |