America is one of the countries that exhibit the most spectacular natural landscapes in the whole world and its lakes are not an exception. Whether it is crystal clear alpine water or sprawling glacial basin, the country has a list of lake destinations that enchant wanderers with amazing beauty, exciting water sports and calm environment. No matter what you want to do recreationally, whether it be relaxing or being adventurous, the U.S. offers an ideal lake destination specifically made to your liking.
Indian travelers need to be aware of the US Visa requirements in USA before they lay out their scenic lake vacation plans in the USA. The process of attaining a US tourist visa is quite easy provided you are well prepared. The process entails completing the DS-160 application on the internet, booking your U.S. visa appointment at any of the consulates or U.S embassies and submitting all the necessary documents together with your travel itinerary, bank slips and passport. As soon as you have your visa at hand, you are all prepared to visit some of the most attractive lakes in the United States.
Here are the 8 Stunning Lakes to Visit in the US
1. Crater Lake, Oregon
It is the deepest and one of the clearest lakes in the world which lies in the foundation of Crater Lake National Park. Crater Lake is located in the ruins of an ancient volcano, its blue color and steep walls are a unique sight, the lake leaves its visitors breathless. There are no rivers leading in or out of the lake and the lake is fully supplied by rain and snow to maintain its purity. Other popular activities are hiking the Rim Trail, boat tours to Wizard Island and camping in the caldera.
2. Lake Tahoe, California Nevada
Lake Tahoe which is the largest alpine lake in North America straddles on the California-Nevada border. It is renowned because it is used all year long: skiing during the wintertime and boating and paddle boarding during the summer. It is enhanced with the beautiful background of Sierra Nevada Mountains. Such popular towns as South Lake Tahoe provide lakeside resorts, fine cuisine and bustling nightlife, which makes it a perfect combination of natural and luxury.
3. Michigan, Wisconsin and Minnesota- Lake Superior
Lake Superior is the largest of the great lakes and the largest freshwater lake in terms of surface area on earth. It is so expansive and mighty, that its presence is humbling, and its rocky coastline is full of cliffs, forests, and secluded beaches. You can visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan to witness the beautiful rock formations and clear waters or go kayaking, hiking and visit lighthouses along the long coast line of the lake.
4. Utah and Arizona, Lake Powell
Lake Powell is an artificial reservoir formed by damming the Colorado River and features other worldly desert sand scenes and striking red rock canyons. There are so many popular boating and houseboat rentals here which enable the visitors to visit and enjoy the secluded coves, hidden arches and natural bridges such as Rainbow Bridge National Monument. It is among the most excellent sites where one can have fun in water and also experience the American southwest.
5. Lake George, New York
Known as the Queen of American Lakes, the Lake George is found in the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York. It is a beautiful lake visited in the summer due to historic steamboat rides, beautiful lake villages, and numerous hiking trails. The area also has plenty of colonial history and Lake George is a bit more relaxed and family-friendly.
6. Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan is the only Great Lake that is fully contained in the United States of America and it is bounded by four states. The lake has sandy beaches, dunes and the skylines of the city- particularly in Chicago. One of the highlights is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan that consists of immense dunes and clear waters. It is an excellent destination to go swimming, sailing, and making scenic drives.
7. The Lake Flathead, Montana
Flathead Lake is a natural freshwater lake located in the beautiful northwest corner of the state of Montana in one of the most scenic areas of the western U.S. It is surrounded by rugged mountains and scenic small towns and is renowned as having some of the cleanest water in the country and also the rich recreational culture. There is sailing, cherry picking, fishing and exploring Wild Horse Island. It is the best place to visit in case you prefer a less crowded and off the beaten track lake.
8. Washington, lake Chelan
Lake Chelan is a long narrow glacier-fed lake that extends more than 50 miles into the North Cascades and is surrounded by beautiful alpine landscape. It is quite famous in wine tasting, hiking and water activities. The town of Chelan has a combination of boutique wineries, family resorts as well as fun on the lakeside. More daring adventurous travelers can ride a ferry to the isolated village of Stehekin, which only goes by boat, seaplane, or on foot.
Conclusion
All the lake destinations presented in the United States are truly admirable in their diversity to match the taste of all travelers: quiet mountain reflections, desert canyons, or wide freshwater beaches. Whether you need to have a classic vacation, a romantic trip, a wild adventure you will never forget these lakes which have the best moments about the beauty of nature in America.
Before you start planning your lakeside journey, make sure to understand the US Visa requirements for Indians. Applying for a B-2 tourist visa requires proper documentation, a clear purpose of travel, and preparation for the interview. Partnering with an experienced visa consultant or travel agency can simplify the process. Once your visa is approved, you can confidently explore these stunning lakes across the United States and create lifelong memories.
