Mono is renowned for its abnormally high amount of salt—about twice as much as the ocean—and creepy/cool tufa formations (built-up limestone formed by carbonate minerals in water). Mehr erfahren.
At 1,943 feet, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the U.S., and one of its most stunning. There are no streams or rivers feeding it—the lake is the product of pure glacial runoff and precipitation. Mehr erfahren.
Crystal clear water with geysers and —Yellowstone Lake is definitely a beauty to behold. It's proximity to colorful hot springs make it a popular spot for both kayakers and leisurely walkers. Mehr erfahren.
Bear Lake in the Kenai Fjords National Park manages to stand out, thanks to its massive glaciers, year-round water sports (kayaking, dog mushing), and occasional viewings of the Northern Lights. Mehr erfahren.
The water is simultaneously clear and turquoise (due to dissolving carbonate minerals), and the small basin is fed by several waterfalls in Glenwood Canyon. Mehr erfahren.
It's the largest alpine lake in North America and was formed millions of years ago during the Ice Age. It receives worldwide acclaim for scenic mountain views, luxe ski resorts and Nevada casinos. Mehr erfahren.
Redfish Lake got its name from the massive amounts of sockeye salmon that migrated 900 miles there from the Pacific Ocean. The once bustling lake perfectly reflects the surrounding Sawtooth Mountains. Mehr erfahren.
The Lake is Great due to its diverse and lovely geology, from islands with mini-lakes with mini-islands to waterfalls to impressive rock formations. Mehr erfahren.
Surrounded by mountains and dense forests, Avalanche Lake could pass as cozy...almost. Let us not forget the glacial water, frozen winters, and relatively common avalanches (hence the name). Mehr erfahren.
Since the late 19th century, the spot has been a popular retreat for summer sports enthusiasts, millionaires (John D. Rockefeller), and artists (Georgia O'Keefe). Mehr erfahren.
Covering parts of both Texas and Louisiana, Caddo is the poster child for southern lakes. The Spanish moss, wide cyprus trees, and sporadic alligator sightings all help add to its down-home charm. Mehr erfahren.
Lake Powell is an impressive man-made reservoir that attracts millions of tourists every year, thanks in large part to its convenient proximity to natural bridges, dams, and Grand-ish canyons. Mehr erfahren.
Lake McDonald is one of the glimmering crown jewels of Montana's Glacier National Park. It's relatively small, but it more than compensates with its pebble beaches and glacial reflections. Mehr erfahren.
The surrounding glaciers grind rocks into a powder that infiltrates the water, giving it that otherworldly color. The reservoir is a popular kayaking and hiking location. Mehr erfahren.
If you want to see volcanoes, glaciers, and rain forests all in one place, just add Lake Clark to your travel list. You're almost guaranteed to spot some foraging brown bears along the shore. Mehr erfahren.
