Skip to Content

17 Deepest Lakes in the US: A Descent to the Depths

17 Deepest Lakes in the US: A Descent to the Depths

The United States is home to some of the deepest and most beautiful lakes in the world, each offering unique attractions and activities. From serene waters ideal for fishing to vast lakes that are adventurers’ paradises, let’s dive into the depths of the 17 deepest lakes in the US, culminating with the deepest of them all.

17. Lake Havasu, Arizona/California

Image Credit: Shutterstock / RYO Alexandre

Depth: 90 feet
Lake Havasu is a vibrant oasis in the desert, known for the London Bridge that spans its waters. It’s a hotspot for boating, fishing, and enjoying spring break festivities.

16. Lake George, New York

Image Credit: Shutterstock / James Casil

Depth: 196 feet
Affectionately known as the “Queen of American Lakes,” Lake George offers crystal-clear waters, surrounded by majestic mountains. Ideal for boating, hiking, and exploring historic forts.

15. Lake Erie, Michigan/New York/Ohio/Pennsylvania

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Bernadette van der Vliet

Depth: 210 feet
As one of the Great Lakes, Lake Erie boasts a rich maritime history, vibrant wildlife, and is a favorite among anglers for its walleye and perch fishing.

14. Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Wangkun Jia

Depth: 212 feet
This lake is a recreational hub, offering activities from ice fishing in winter to kayaking in summer, surrounded by quaint towns and scenic drives

13. Lake Washington, Washington

 

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sean Pavone

Depth: 214 feet
Bordering Seattle, Lake Washington is celebrated for its natural beauty, water activities, and the picturesque lakeside properties that line its shores.

12. Lake Coeur D’Alene, Idaho

Image Credit: Shutterstock / croozmedia

Depth: 220 feet
Known for its North Idaho beauty, golf courses with floating greens, and trails, it’s a sanctuary for relaxation and adventure alike.

11. Lake Jocassee, South Carolina

Image Credit: Shutterstock / MarkVanDykePhotography

Depth: 300 feet
Tucked away in the Appalachian Mountains, Lake Jocassee is prized for its crystal-clear waters, cascading waterfalls, and secluded coves.

10. Flathead Lake, Montana

Image Credit: Shutterstock / tusharkoley

Depth: 370 feet
As the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, Flathead Lake is a haven for sailing, fishing, and exploring the surrounding cherry orchards.

9. Lake Champlain, New York/Vermont

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Alexander Ryan Thompson

Depth: 400 feet
Rich in history and legend, Lake Champlain offers myriad recreational activities, from exploring historic sites and lighthouses to enjoying its diverse aquatic life.

8. Lake Mead, Arizona/Nevada

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Steve Buckley

Depth: 532 feet
Formed by the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead is a lifeline in the desert, offering boating, spectacular canyon views, and a gateway to the Grand Canyon.

7. Lake Huron, Michigan/Ontario

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Kenneth Keifer

Depth: 750 feet
The second largest of the Great Lakes, Lake Huron is dotted with lighthouses and shipwrecks, making it a fascinating destination for divers and history buffs.

6. Lake Michigan, Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Wisconsin

Image Credit: Shutterstock / JaySi

Depth: 923 feet
Lake Michigan’s sandy shores, towering dunes, and vibrant cities make it a beloved destination for beachgoers, sailors, and explorers.

5. Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Amehime

Depth: 1,158 feet
Idaho’s deepest lake is a stunning landscape for fishing, especially renowned for its giant Kamloops trout, amidst the backdrop of the Selkirk and Cabinet mountains.

4. Lake Chelan, Washington

Image Credit: Shutterstock / vagabond54

Depth: 1,486 feet
Surrounded by mountains, Lake Chelan’s pristine waters are perfect for water sports, while the lake itself is a gateway to the North Cascades National Park.

3. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Image Credit: Shutterstock / topseller

Depth: 1,645 feet
Lake Tahoe mesmerizes with its clear blue waters and mountainous surroundings, offering skiing, kayaking, and scenic cruises.

2. Lake Superior, Michigan/Minnesota/Wisconsin

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Gottography

Depth: 1,332 feet
Lake Superior, the largest and most majestic of the Great Lakes, is encircled by rugged wilderness, historic sites, and picturesque shorelines, offering a myriad of outdoor activities.

1. Crater Lake, Oregon

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Kris Wiktor

Depth: 1,949 feet
As the deepest lake in the US, Crater Lake amazes with its deep blue color and clarity. Formed by a collapsed volcano, it offers hiking, breathtaking vistas, and boat tours to Wizard Island, making it a natural wonder not to be missed.

Explore the Depths 

Image Credit: Shutterstock / attilio pregnolato

Each of these lakes, with their depth and unique offerings, invites visitors to explore the natural beauty and myriad activities available across the United States. Whether you’re drawn to the tranquility of a mountain lake or the adventure of the great outdoors, these lakes promise unforgettable experiences.

More From The Green Voyage

Top 10 Trending Travel Destinations 2024

6 Essential Banking Apps for International Travel – Managing Your Finances on the Go

Traveling With Kids – 10 Tips to Create Memorable Family Holidays

The post 17 Deepest Lakes in the US: A Descent to the Depths first appeared on The Green Voyage.

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / MarkVanDykePhotography.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

Tips for Trip Success

Book Your Flight
Find an inexpensive flight by using Kayak, a favorite of ours because it regularly returns less expensive flight options from a variety of airlines.

Book Your Hotel or Special Accommodation
We are big fans of Booking.com. We like their review system and photos. If we want to see more reviews and additional booking options, we go to Expedia.

You Need Travel Insurance!
Good travel insurance means having total peace of mind. Travel insurance protects you when your medical insurance often will not and better than what you get from your credit card. It will provide comprehensive coverage should you need medical treatment or return to the United States, compensation for trip interruption, baggage loss, and other situations.Find the Perfect Insurance Plan for Your Trip

Related posts:

20 Thrilling Adventures for Americans to Conquer in South America
20 Critical Survival Tips Every Solo Female Traveler Needs to Know
Try Something Different: 21 Undiscovered US Places to Vacation
19 International Cities Hooked on American Traditions
How Transgender Travelers Are Revolutionizing the Tourism Industry
15 Weird Texan Traditions
Top 21 Must-Visit American Wine Regions
Why Visit LA? 21 Great Reasons
Scary Movie Settings in America: Relive the Freaky Details
20 Views That Will Make You Want to Visit France
The 19 Ultimate Snowbird Destinations to Escape the Winter Chill – Discovering Warm Havens
18 Reasons Why the US Has Everything Without Traveling Abroad
The Dark Side of Cruise Vacations: Long Lines Will Be the Least of Your Worries!
21 Places to Live Like the Rich and Famous on a Budget
22 Unforgettable Travel Quotes to Spark Your Wanderlust Beyond the USA
20 Ways to Deepen Bonds on the Go: Strengthening Relationships for American Travelers
20 Ultimate Global Cities for American Expats
18 States With Longest Life Expectancy
Michigan vs. Ohio: Who Owns the Great Lakes?
Health CRISIS Hotspots: Navigating the 10 U.S. States Confronting Major Health Challenges
21 Wild West Wonders That Wyoming Still Preserves
21 Ways to Entertain Kids on a Flight and Keep Yourself Sane
Five-Star Hotels - Luxury or Lies?
21 Idyllic Reasons to Idle in Idaho
21 States People Are Fleeing - Discover the Top Destinations for Relocation
15 Challenging U.S. Cities: Navigating Tough Times and Social Struggles as a Traveler
25 American Experiences to Cross off Your Bucket List *Even if You’re American!
18 Love Adventures: Unusual Romantic Date Ideas Globally
21 Unspoken Rules of the True American
Solo and Lovin’ It: Must-Visit Destinations for Single Travelers