If you are as fortunate as I am to call the "Great Lakes State" home, you know that there are so many beautiful lakes to visit. If you don't live in this awesome state, I feel sorry for you because you are truly missing out. While you can visit these lakes in the winter, the best time to visit them is in the summer. Here are a few lakes you should put on your summer to do list and visit as many as you can! After all, our lakes will always hold a special places in the hearts of those who call Michigan home.
1. Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan can be visited from multiple states such as Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin, but the best place to experience the magic of this lake is in the state it was named after! There are no words to describe summer days spent in Holland or Ludington at their beautiful Lake Michigan beaches.
2. Lake Huron
Lake Huron is the neighboring lake to Lake Michigan and Lake Erie. The crystal clear water and the view of the shipwrecks underneath the surface make Lake Huron a destination lake. To truly experience the beauty of this lake, I recommend visiting towns such as Caseville and Tawas and take in the view from their sea glass and Petoskey stone filled beaches.
3. Lake Erie
Many people like myself admire the beauty of Lake Erie on their way to Cedar Point or from Cleveland. Seeing the lake on top of the Top Thrill Dragster at Cedar Point or just strolling the side of Cleveland gives you breathtaking views of one of the "smaller" Great Lakes. On a hot day in Sandusky or Cleveland, spend a day a the beach and remember that while you might be in Ohio, the Michigan lake makes being in Ohio not so bad.
4. Lake Superior
The coldest water out of all the "Great Lakes" will be found at Lake Superior. Located at the very top of the Upper Peninsula, Lake Superior is definitely one of Michigan's (not really hidden) gems! Completely separated from civilization (except for the town of Marquette) you are truly one with nature at Lake Superior.
5. Lake St. Clair
Another one of the smaller "Great Lakes" is Lake St. Clair. Lake St. Clair is connected by the Detroit River and is a popular fishing destination for fisherman throughout the state.
6. Walled Lake
Walled Lake is a beautiful lake hidden within the township of Commerce, MI. While Walled Lake is not unheard of for locals, those who are not from the area could simply drive by the lake and miss it if they weren't paying attention. Walled Lake holds their annual Ice Fishing Derby every winter proving that while this lake is definitely fun in the summer, it can also be fun during the winter.
7. Whitmore Lake
While many of us Michiganders flock to the lakes for the weekends, we flock to Whitmore Lake on the Fourth of July. During the fourth, Whitmore Lake puts on an elaborate show of fireworks! Sitting on the boat in the middle of this lake watching the fireworks light up the water is truly magical for people of all ages.
8. Torch Lake
We all know the lyrics of Kid Rock's song "All Summer Long" were he states, "It was summer time in northern Michigan." I truly believe he had this lake in mind when he wrote that song because of it's famous sandbar boat parties. If you're up for a boat party or a lake that never sleeps, Torch Lake is for you!
9. Lake Charlevoix
Name after a French explorer, Pierre Francois Xavier de Charlevoix, Lake Charlevoix is the third largest inland lake in Michigan. A popular destination in the summer, many Michiganders travel up north for a long weekend to enjoy the scenic views of Lake Charlevoix and relax for a little bit. If you're looking for a calm, relaxing lake with a view, this lake is for you.
10. Thompson Lake
While Livingston County has many lakes, this lake has a unique view. While part of the lake is surrounded by beautiful houses, it is also surrounded by a cemetery. While some see it as creepy, I see it as a peaceful resting place. Even in the afterlife, you can admire the beauty of this lake!
