The 10 Best U.S. Lakes That Need to Be on Your Bucket List

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Diablo Lake, Washington

Diablo Lake: Glacial gem in WA's North Cascades, turquoise from refracted glacial flour. Hiking, camping, stunning views. 2hr from Seattle.

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Crater Lake, Oregon

Crater Lake: Deepest US lake, formed in a volcano, stunningly clear water, islands, hikes, boat tours, scenic drive.

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Lake Tahoe, California

Lake Tahoe: Alpine gem on CA-NV border. Top for skiing, beaches; vibrant South, serene West, water sports in East. Ski at Palisades & Northstar.

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Mono Lake, California

Mono Lake: Stunning tufa towers, high salt content for floating, diverse wildlife. Near Yosemite National Park. Hot springs nearby.

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Watson Lake and Willow Lake, Arizona

Explore Granite Dells' scenic boulders, Watson & Willow Lakes near Prescott, Arizona. Enjoy water activities, climbing, hiking, and history in a charming cowboy town.

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Hanging Lake, Colorado

Hanging Lake: Emerald oasis amid Rockies. Hike to stunning lake, waterfalls, and Spouting Rock cascade. No swimming due to fragile ecosystem.

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Flathead Lake, Montana

Montana's Flathead Lake: Clean, vast freshwater expanse with unique park units. Wild Horse Island, diverse terrains, wildlife, water activities, near Glacier NP.

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Lake Superior, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan

Lake Superior: Largest freshwater lake, shipwrecks, kayaking, Pictured Rocks' cliffs, Isle Royale's wilderness, moose & wolves.

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Seneca Lake, New York

Seneca Lake: Stunning, deep glacial lake with boat activities & surrounded by Finger Lakes wine country.

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Caddo Lake, Texas

Caddo Lake: Cypress wonderland, no swimming, canoe trails, diverse wildlife, fishing, camping options.

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