Getty Images/Olga Vasilyeva
In Florida, we're lucky to not have to deal with the kind of winter weather that much of this country gets. Of course, we have "snow birds," who come down to Florida from other states during the winter months. They don't want to deal with the snow and ice. Who can blame them? But, it appears that Florida won't be able to escape some winter weather this upcoming season. Florida is in for a "frosty" winter, says the Farmer's Almanac. The publication has released its official predictions for the 2023-2024 winter season.
First, let's look at the winter outlook across the United States. The Farmer's Almanac states that cold, winter weather is coming back this season. "After a warm winter anomaly last year, traditional cool temperatures and snowy weather conditions will return to the contiguous United States," they say. The Farmer's Almanac also explains that the snow and cold will come early, naming December as a very stormy moth. "Our extended weather forecast calls for some blizzard conditions blowing snow into areas over northern New England, the North Central States, and northern and central areas of New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Arkansas," they explain.
Florida In for a 'Frosty' Winter
This winter, according to the Almanac, will bring wet weather to the Southeast region and some frosts to Florida. The Farmer's Almanac even says to expect "brrrs." Which I suppose is their way of saying that it's going to be colder than normal. Specifically, the Almanac states, "The Southeast and Florida will see a wetter-than-normal winter, with average winter temperatures overall, but a few frosts may send many shivers to snowbirds trying to avoid the cold and snow back home." Up the East Coast, storms are expected to come as late as March. Wow. That makes for a very long winter. Find the full study here. Let's forget the frost and look at these beautiful lakes instead.
America is known for many good things, from fast food to NFL football to land as far as the eye can see. It's also known for having lots and lots of beautiful lakes, including one Florida lake.
With so many lakes across the United States, you're probably within driving distance of a fantastic lake of some sort. So, which lakes are the absolutely best in America? It's a tough question. I mean, everyone looks for something different in a lake. Some people love large lakes that look almost like the ocean, while other thrive at small, inland lakes where you can always see the shore. But, there are some lakes that stand above the rest when it comes to beauty and popularity.
I've put together a list of the "11 Most Beautiful Lakes in America," offering a little bit of something for everyone. These lakes are found all across America, so wherever you live, one of these probably is relatively close to you. We're heading into the perfect season to visit a lake, too. For those who aren't lucky enough to live near the ocean, going to a lake is the next best thing. One famous Florida lake is included in here. So, get your sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and bikini or trunks and check out 11 beautiful lakes in America to visit.
11 Most Beautiful Lakes in America
I've put together a list of the 11 most beautiful lakes to visit in America. This tally includes lakes from coast to coast. Some fun activities, depending on the currents, include swimming, wind surfing, going on a boat on the lake, having a picnic at the shoreline and more.
Seneca Lake, New York
Seneca Lake is the biggest of the 11 glacial Finger Lakes. It's 38 miles long and more than 618 feet deep, making it one of the deepest lakes in America. What's extra cool is that the U.S. Navy even does some testing for submarines in this lake, because of its depth.
Yellowstone Lake, Wyoming
If you've ever been to Yellowstone Park, you've probably visited Yellowstone Lake. The massive lake is a part of Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. It's actually the biggest lake in the park and one of the biggest highly elevated freshwater lakes in North America.
Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada
The famous Lake Tahoe is located right on the state line between California and Nevada. It's stunning, as it is surrounded by the glorious Sierra Nevada Mountains. This is the largest alpine lake in North America, making it a must-see lake.
Lake Santeetlah, North Carolina
Here's a special lake located within the Nantahala National Forest and surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains. This is also a very pure lake, as its shoreline is mostly protected from development. It's a beautiful destination for fishing, jumping in a canoe or kayak or a picnic.
Hanging Lake, Colorado
Hanging Lake is so glorious. It's located in the middle of Glenwood Canyon in the White River National Forest, and it's actually part of the Southern Rocky Mountains. This lake "was formed by a geologic fault which caused the lake bed to drop away from the valley floor above," according to the USDA Forest Service, and is a designated National Natural Landmark.
Lake Superior, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan
The Great Lakes are, of course, some of the most famous lakes in the world. One that's often left of best-of lists is Lake Superior. It's the largest freshwater lake in the world and has a whopping 10% of the world's surface freshwater. Drink up.
Lake Michigan, Wisconsin/Michigan/Illinois
Lake Michigan is simply a landmark. It's actually the most deadly lake in America, due to the high volume of drownings. But, aside from the scary, it's a beautiful and large lake. The lake is spread over more than 307 miles, and there are many beach towns across those miles.
Lake Lanier, Georgia
Located in the northern part of Georgia, Lake Lanier runs nearly 40,000 acres. It stems from the construction of the Buford Dam. This lake is known for its super clear water. The water is actually crystal blue. How beautiful, right?
Lake Jocassee, South Carolina
Lake Jocassee is in the Appalachian Mountains, and it's actually a man-made reservoir. Its water flows from the mountains. This is another lake known for its very clear water, so you get to see all the fish and underwater creatures when you look down into the water flow.
Lake Okeechobee, Florida
Lake Okeechobee is the biggest freshwater lake in Florida. It's a very popular spot for largemouth bass fishing. Those who visit the lake get to learn the history and today's experience of the Seminole community at the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum, which is a bonus.
Lake Erie, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York
The Lake Erie shoreline touches Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania and New York. The body of water offers some of the warmest waters you'll find in the Great Lakes. Lake Erie also offers some fantastic areas to swim, making it a popular vacation lake.
