When you think of the United States, the first images that come to mind might be bustling cities or iconic landmarks like the Grand Canyon or the Statue of Liberty. But some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country are hidden away in serene, crystal-clear lakes. Whether you crave hiking along rugged mountain shores, lounging by pristine waters, or just seeking peace and solitude in nature, the U.S. is home to lakes that offer all that and more. In this article, we’ll guide you through 10 of the most beautiful lakes in the U.S., each offering a unique experience and stunning natural beauty.
Cost and Accessibility Comparison Table
| Lake Name | Average Hotel Price | Vacation Rental Price | Accessibility (Drive) | Nearest Airport |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Tahoe | $100 – $350 | $200 – $500+ | 3.5 hours from San Francisco | Reno-Tahoe International Airport |
| Crater Lake | $120 – $250 | $150 – $400+ | 4.5 hours from Portland | Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport |
| Lake Superior | $90 – $250 | $150 – $500+ | 2.5 hours from Duluth | Duluth International Airport |
| Flathead Lake | $100 – $250 | $175 – $400+ | 1.5 hours from Kalispell | Glacier Park International Airport |
| Lake Willoughby | $100 – $200 | $150 – $350 | 2 hours from Burlington | Burlington International Airport |
| Lake George | $120 – $300 | $200 – $500+ | 4 hours from NYC | Albany International Airport |
| Yellowstone Lake | $100 – $300 | $150 – $500+ | 4.5 hours from Billings | Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport |
| Lake Powell | $130 – $250 | $200 – $450+ | 15 minutes from Page | Page Municipal Airport |
| Maroon Lake | $250 – $600 | $350 – $800+ | 15 minutes from Aspen | Aspen/Pitkin County Airport |
| Lake Champlain | $100 – $250 | $150 – $400+ | 2 hours from Burlington | Burlington International Airport |
Table of contents
1. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Known for its clear blue waters and panoramic mountain views, Lake Tahoe is one of the most popular and beautiful lakes in the United States. Straddling the border between California and Nevada, it offers year-round activities ranging from skiing in winter to water sports in the summer. Visitors are drawn to the lake’s breathtaking scenery and vibrant towns like South Lake Tahoe, which offers both a bustling vacation vibe and easy access to nature.
Why it’s special: The lake’s water is so clear that you can see up to 70 feet below the surface in some places, making it a perfect spot for divers, boaters, and nature lovers.
Cost Comparison:
- Hotel: Average hotel prices around Lake Tahoe can range from $100 to $350 per night, depending on the season.
- Vacation Rental: Prices for vacation rentals around Lake Tahoe typically start at $200 per night for a small condo and can go up to $500+ per night for a luxurious lakeside home.
Accessibility:
- Drive: Lake Tahoe is about a 3.5-hour drive from San Francisco or 1.5 hours from Reno, Nevada.
- Air: Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) is the nearest major airport, just 1 hour away from the lake.
2. Crater Lake, Oregon
Crater Lake is truly a marvel. Formed thousands of years ago by a volcanic eruption, this lake is the deepest in the U.S. at 1,943 feet. Its vivid blue waters and surrounding cliffs make it one of the most photogenic locations in the country. The lake’s remoteness adds to its charm, offering peace and solitude that can’t be found at many other U.S. destinations.
Why it’s special: The deep blue waters and surrounding caldera cliffs are visually mesmerizing, and the fact that no rivers flow into the lake keeps it remarkably clean and clear.
Cost Comparison:
- Hotel: Prices for hotels near Crater Lake range from $120 to $250 per night. However, booking inside Crater Lake National Park can be more expensive.
- Vacation Rental: Rental homes in the area typically start at $150 per night and can go up to $400+ per night for luxury properties with lake views.
Accessibility:
- Drive: Crater Lake is about a 4.5-hour drive from Portland and 2 hours from Medford.
- Air: The nearest airport is Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR), which is about 2 hours away.
3. Lake Superior, Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin
As the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area, Lake Superior is vast and awe-inspiring. Its rugged shoreline features towering cliffs, sandy beaches, and numerous waterfalls, making it a paradise for hikers, kayakers, and photographers. The lake’s pristine environment also supports an array of wildlife, including moose, wolves, and bears.
Why it’s special: Lake Superior offers one of the most pristine and untouched natural environments in the U.S., with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities along its 2,800-mile shoreline.
Cost Comparison:
- Hotel: Hotels along the Lake Superior shoreline range from $90 to $250 per night depending on location and season.
- Vacation Rental: Prices for vacation rentals can vary from $150 per night for a cozy cabin to $500+ per night for a luxury lakefront home.
Accessibility:
- Drive: Lake Superior is accessible by car from cities like Duluth, MN (2.5 hours), and Marquette, MI (4 hours).
- Air: Duluth International Airport (DLH) and Marquette’s Sawyer International Airport (MQT) are the closest airports.
4. Flathead Lake, Montana
Located in the Flathead Valley of Montana, Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake in the western U.S. Its crystal-clear waters are surrounded by stunning mountains, orchards, and vineyards, making it a popular destination for fishing, boating, and wine tasting. The lake is also famous for the legendary Flathead Lake Monster.
Why it’s special: Flathead Lake’s unique combination of natural beauty and outdoor activities, paired with the mild climate, makes it an excellent place to visit year-round.
Cost Comparison:
- Hotel: Hotel prices near Flathead Lake typically range from $100 to $250 per night, with lakeside resorts costing more.
- Vacation Rental: Vacation rentals range from $175 per night for modest cabins to over $400 per night for upscale lakeside properties.
Accessibility:
- Drive: Flathead Lake is a 1.5-hour drive from Kalispell, MT, and 3 hours from Missoula, MT.
- Air: Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) is just 20 minutes away from the lake.
Also read how you can find the best vacation rental and avail it easily in U.S.A
5. Lake Willoughby, Vermont
Sometimes called “America’s Lucerne,” Lake Willoughby is one of the clearest lakes in New England. Nestled between Mount Pisgah and Mount Hor, this glacial lake offers breathtaking views and an excellent spot for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Its crystal-clear waters are cold, making it perfect for those looking for a refreshing swim.
Why it’s special: The lake’s stunning blue waters and scenic backdrop of towering mountains create a picturesque setting that rivals any European alpine lake.
Cost Comparison:
- Hotel: Hotels in the area range from $100 to $200 per night for a mid-range option.
- Vacation Rental: Rental homes around Lake Willoughby typically start at $150 per night and go up to $350 for luxury lakefront properties.
Accessibility:
- Drive: Lake Willoughby is a 2-hour drive from Burlington, VT, and 1.5 hours from Montpelier.
- Air: Burlington International Airport (BTV) is the nearest airport, about 2 hours away.
6. Lake George, New York
Often referred to as the “Queen of American Lakes,” Lake George is a beautiful 32-mile-long lake in the Adirondacks. Surrounded by forests and mountains, it’s a popular destination for boating, fishing, and hiking. The historic Sagamore Resort, dating back to the 1880s, adds a touch of old-world charm to the region.
Why it’s special: Lake George’s clear waters and rich history make it a must-visit for anyone traveling through the Northeast.
Cost Comparison:
- Hotel: Prices in the Lake George area range from $120 to $300 per night for standard accommodations.
- Vacation Rental: Vacation rental prices in the area start at $200 per night for a small cabin and can go up to $500+ per night for luxurious lakeside homes.
Accessibility:
- Drive: Lake George is easily accessible by car, just 4 hours from New York City.
- Air: Albany International Airport (ALB) is 1 hour away.
7. Yellowstone Lake, Wyoming
As the largest high-elevation freshwater lake in North America, Yellowstone Lake is the centerpiece of Yellowstone National Park. With its stunning backdrop of mountains and geothermal features like hot springs and geysers, the lake offers a unique and visually striking experience.
Why it’s special: In addition to its natural beauty, Yellowstone Lake is surrounded by diverse wildlife, including bison, elk, and wolves, providing a chance to see nature up close.
Cost Comparison:
- Hotel: Lodging around Yellowstone Lake ranges from $100 to $300 per night, with limited availability inside Yellowstone National Park.
- Vacation Rental: Vacation rentals near the lake can start at $150 per night, with high-end homes reaching up to $500+ per night.
Accessibility:
- Drive: Yellowstone Lake is located within Yellowstone National Park, accessible by car from major cities like Billings, MT (4.5 hours).
- Air: Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) is 4 hours away from the lake.
8. Lake Powell, Arizona/Utah
Lake Powell is a man-made reservoir that cuts through the desert landscape, offering striking views of sandstone cliffs and turquoise water. The lake is ideal for boating, fishing, and exploring the many side canyons that make up its intricate shoreline. Don’t forget to visit Rainbow Bridge, the world’s longest natural arch.
Why it’s special: The striking red rock formations and deep blue water make Lake Powell one of the most visually stunning lakes in the country.
Cost Comparison:
- Hotel: Hotel prices around Lake Powell range from $130 to $250 per night, depending on the season.
- Vacation Rental: Vacation rentals around Lake Powell can range from $200 per night for simple accommodations to $450+ per night for more luxurious lakeside homes.
Accessibility:
- Drive: Lake Powell is accessible by car from major cities like Page, AZ (15 minutes) and Flagstaff, AZ (4 hours).
- Air: Page Municipal Airport (PGA) serves as the nearest airport.
9. Maroon Lake, Colorado
Maroon Lake, located outside Aspen, Colorado, offers some of the best views of the famous Maroon Bells. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush forests, this lake is a favorite for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts. It’s especially beautiful in the fall when the surrounding trees turn vibrant shades of red and gold.
Why it’s special: The reflection of the Maroon Bells in the still waters of Maroon Lake creates one of the most iconic and photographed scenes in the U.S.
Cost Comparison:
- Hotel: Hotels in Aspen (the nearest city to Maroon Lake) can range from $250 to $600 per night.
- Vacation Rental: Vacation rental options start at $350 per night for small cabins and reach up to $800+ per night for larger luxury homes with lake views.
Accessibility:
- Drive: Maroon Lake is about 15 minutes from Aspen, which is 3.5 hours from Denver.
- Air: Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) is the closest airport.
10. Lake Champlain, New York/Vermont
Spanning the border between New York and Vermont, Lake Champlain is known for its rich history and beautiful scenery. From its undeveloped shorelines to the possibility of spotting “Champ,” the lake’s legendary monster, there’s something captivating about this freshwater gem. The area is also known for its hiking trails, fishing spots, and charming small towns.
Why it’s special: Lake Champlain’s historical significance and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal destination for those looking to experience nature and local culture.
Cost Comparison:
- Hotel: Hotels along Lake Champlain typically range from $100 to $250 per night.
- Vacation Rental: Vacation rentals start at $150 per night and go up to $400+ per night for upscale properties with lake access.
Accessibility:
- Drive: Lake Champlain is about a 2-hour drive from Burlington, VT, and 1.5 hours from Montreal.
- Air: Burlington International Airport (BTV) is the nearest airport.
To book your lakeside retreat or find more information on vacation rentals, visit Brownstone Vacations and explore our options for lakeside vacation homes in locations like Cle Elum, Washington.
