Tag: Lake Superior

Lakes with the Longest Shorelines in the World

Posted on Noah Ryan
a rocky shore of Lake Superior
Courtesy of Michigan.org
  • These four lakes have the longest shorelines in the world:
    • Caspian Sea
    • Lake Superior
    • Lake Huron
    • Lake Victoria

From the continent-connecting Caspian Sea to the tropical allure of Lake Victoria, lakes with long shorelines have earned the attention and imagination of people across the globe. As we explore the history and cultural significance of these lakes, let this list of lakes with the longest shorelines serve as your vacation guide.

Caspian Sea

An aerial shot of the Caspian Sea
Courtesy of Central Asia Program

Sat between two continents, Europe and Asia, the Caspian Sea is, appropriately, the largest lake in the world. The lake’s shoreline stretches from 4,300–4,400 miles long, and it touches Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Iran, Azerbaijan, and Russia. While it spans 43,550 square miles, the surface area depends largely on the season and weather patterns, as evaporation is a huge factor in declining water levels. That being said, the lake’s primary water source is the Volga River — contributing to over 80% of inflows. Additionally, water levels are highest during the spring, when the snow melts and flows into the Volga.

While the world knows it as the Caspian Sea, this inland sea is actually a lake. Stories, legends, and myths differ, but tales say that early Greeks encountered the area, and the vastness of the body of water lead them to believe that it was a wide, open sea. The high salinity of the water contributes to this theory. Many cultures and civilizations have relied on the Caspian Sea’s water and fish populations. Unlike the rest of dry Iran, their coast on the Caspian Sea is lush and verdant. The western and north-western shores are temperate, and the eastern shores are vastly arid.

Lake Superior

an aerial shot of an island with trees in Lake Superior
Courtesy of Michigan.org

Largest among the American Great Lakes, Lake Superior’s 2,725-mile shoreline dominates the region. This chief among the Great Lakes borders Ontario, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan. Not only the largest lake in the United States, it’s also the largest freshwater lake — 10% of the world’s surface freshwater — in the world and the third-largest by volume. A testament to its size and depth, which averages 483 feet, the other Great Lakes could fit within Lake Superior with plenty of room to spare.

Lake Superior is classified as a glacial lake, meaning that it resulted from the movement and melting of glaciers about 1.2 billion years ago. Later, the native peoples of the area, today called the Ojibwe, called the lake “Gitchi-Gami,” which means “Great Sea.” As for modern times, Lake Superior holds within it at least 350 shipwrecks. The lake became a mainstay for anglers and fishermen, and it contains 88 species of fish. Lake Superior’s primary inflow is the Nigipon River in the north, and it flows out of the St. Mary’s River into Lake Huron.

Lake Huron

A strangely-shaped rock in the water
Courtesy of Fremont Contract Carriers
rocks in the water
Courtesy of Michigan Radio

The second-largest of the American Great Lakes, Lake Huron is situated between the state of Michigan in the United States and the province of Ontario in Canada. One of the defining features of Lake Huron is its extensive shoreline, stretching over 2,380 miles. From rocky cliffs to sandy beaches, it offers a variety of scenic vistas and recreational opportunities. Towns and harbors dot the coast, attracting tourists and nature enthusiasts who enjoy activities like swimming, boating, fishing, and exploring picturesque coastal areas.

Its origins can be traced back to the retreat of glaciers over 10,000 years ago during the last Ice Age. The lake played a significant role in the development of early Indigenous cultures, serving as a vital waterway for transportation and trade. European exploration and colonization in the 17th century brought French and British influences to the region, leading to the establishment of fur trading posts and the eventual growth of settlements along the lake’s shores.

Lake Victoria

a boat in a lake with hills in the background
Courtesy of andbeyond.com

It takes about three months for the cool waters from Lake Victoria to travel to the Nile Delta and the Mediterranean Sea. Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake, is a member of what historians dub the “African Great Lake” and boasts an impressive shoreline between 2,100–2,400 miles. Not content with being the largest lake in Africa, it’s also the world’s largest tropical lake and second-largest freshwater lake. Lake Victoria is home to over 60 islands, called the Sese Archipelago, and 200 species of fish, of which tilapia is highly favored.

a map showing where Lake Victoria is
Courtesy of ACARE.org

Lake Victoria, also known as Ukerewe and Victoria Nyanza, is fed by the Kagera River and regular rainfall. This water travels through the Vicotria Nile in the north into Lake Kyoga, and then it flows into Lake Albert, the White Nile, and finally into the Nile proper. The lake can be divided into three distinct regions: south, north, and northeast. These regions correspond to Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya — the nations that call the lake their own. Furthermore, Lake Victoria contributed greatly to the growth of these nations, and Uganda’s capital, Kampala sits on the northern shore.

So, now you know your next jet-setting lake vacation destination. But for a better idea of the lakes with the longest shorelines in the United States—including one anomaly— check out our other blog!

Best Winter Lake Vacation Destinations

Posted on Lacey Spear
Split Rock Lighthouse, Minnesota pictured next to a snowy frozen lake and a pink sunset.
Photo Courtesy of iStock | Posnov

So far in our vacation destination series, we have covered the best lakes for relaxation, outdoor enthusiasts, and shopaholics. But now, as sunny rays give way to snowflake days, it’s time to talk about the best winter lake vacation destinations. These top locations not only provide stunning snowy views but also host winter festivals and offer various outdoor activities. So get the family together, grab your coziest coat, and get ready to begin your unforgettable winter adventure!

Lake Superior, Minnesota/Michigan/Wisconsin

Photo Courtesy of MPR News

Since Lake Superior touches three states—Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin—it offers an incredibly wide range of winter lake activities. However, if you had to choose only a few things to do, the sandstone caves at Wisconsin’s Apostle Islands should be at the top of the list. Showcasing picturesque frozen waterfalls and streams, the area is a true winter wonderland. Then, after you soak in these views, you can attend the famous Ice Festival, featuring kids’ activities, ice sculptures, MIRA Ice Racing, fireworks, and a snow slide. Or, if you happen to be on the Michigan side of the lake, you can hop over to Marquette, which hosts major skiing events and a dog sled race in January.

Lake Morey, Vermont

Ice sculpture of several roses in a vase on Lake Morey in Vermont.
Photo Courtesy of Only In Your State

Unlike Lake Superior, Lake Morey is relatively low profile. So, it’s the ideal lake for relaxing and getting away from the fast pace of city life. Moreover, Lake Morey is a wintry paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering plenty of family-friendly adventures and activities. If you’re feeling gutsy, you can skate the entire length of the 4.5-mile lake, or you can conquer the longest Nordic skating trail in the nation. Other fun winter activities include the Holiday Market, pond hockey, and sledding. And perhaps the pinnacle of winter on Lake Morey, the beloved Carnival weekend features night skating, entertainment, snow sculpture contests, lakeside dining, and more.

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Ice castles lit up by red, green, blue, and purple lights situated on Lake Geneva in Wisconsin.
Photo Courtesy of Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Lake Geneva may be far from Switzerland, but its views rival Europe. To soak in this scenery, hikers can take a brisk winter walk along the 23-mile shoreline path. Additionally, Lake Geneva’s January Winterfest is an iconic event, attracting travelers from all across the nation. Visitors can view incredible ice sculptures at the National Snow Sculpting Championship and visit the eccentric ice caves on the lake. Moreover, if they enjoy winter sports, they can go sledding, ice fishing, or ziplining. Lake Geneva also offers many relaxing activities, such as indoor igloo dining and stellar spas.

Maroon Lake, Colorado

Photo Courtesy of David Krause via The Aspen Times

Situated ten miles from Aspen, Maroon Lake features idyllic winter landscapes. Reflecting the 14,000-foot snowy peaks above, the lake is the perfect place to capture a seasonal family photo. Although Maroon Lake is not accessible via roadways during the winter, visitors can ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile to the area. Additionally, nearby Aspen provides plenty of opportunities to get into the winter spirit. The Breathtaker Alpine Coaster winds through the forests and can go up to 28 miles per hour. Individuals can control their own cars along the track, granting them the sensation of skiing without the exertion or risk. Aspen also offers tranquil hiking tours and dogsledding endeavors.

Lake Chelan, Washington

Winterfest at Lake Chelan, featuring a cozy snowy town and fireworks over the lake.
Photo Courtesy of Only In Your State

If a snow globe came to life, it would be winter at Lake Chelan. With the Northern Cascade Mountains as its magnificent backdrop and crisp glacier-fed waters, the lake features Washington’s finest winter views. Only nine miles from downtown Chelan, Echo Valley showcases 70 acres of terrain and offers snow tubing, skiing, snowboarding, and x-country runs. Additionally, Lake Chelan’s Winterfest is an unparalleled seasonal attraction. Featuring remarkable ice sculptures, impressive fireworks, the infamous ice bar, sledding, and live music, Winterfest will transform your vacation into an unforgettable experience.

Now you know about the best winter lake vacation destinations. So don’t just stand there frozen—go out and have the snowy getaway of your dreams!

Happy Halloween: Ghostly Tales from the Lake Part 2

Posted on Lacey Spear
A bright moon rests on a foggy lake.
Photo Courtesy of Vasarae on Pixabay

Halloween is upon us, and spooky season is officially in full swing! It’s time to make that cup of apple cider, sit by the fire at your lake home, and share some ghostly lake tales. In the previous installment of our “Happy Halloween” series, we shared chilling stories from Gardner Lake, White Rock Lake, Lake Erie, and Lake Lanier. In this edition, we are highlighting four more lakes. Brace yourself for tales of soldiers, abandoned towns, haunted waters, and sunken ships. There’s nothing like a lake backdrop for all our favorite ghost legends!

Lake Tholocco, Alabama

Spooky picture of the allegedly haunted Lake Tholocco near Fort Rucker in Alabama.
Photo Courtesy of Alabama Haunted Houses

Situated near Fort Rucker, Lake Tholocco features plentiful recreational activities, complete with a beach and children’s water slides. However, the lake has not always been a recreational oasis. During the Civil War, the property that is now Lake Tholocco served as a battlefield, and the cries of the fallen soldiers are still heard today. On dark nights, some visitors have reported hearing peculiar sounds and sighting ghostly figures wandering in the nearby woods. In fact, a Fort Rucker soldier claimed that once he saw three ghostly soldiers marching around the lake. Perhaps the nearby graveyards have failed to lay the Civil War soldiers to rest, and they come to Lake Tholocco to reminisce battles bitter and hard-pressed.

Clarks Hill Lake, Georgia

A map of the abandoned town of Petersburg, now covered by Clarks Hill Lake.
Photo Courtesy of Wikipedia

Today Clarks Hill Lake showcases 400 miles of shoreline and bears the title of “Georgia‘s Freshwater Coast.” Yet, its beginnings were not so prosperous. At its construction in 1954, Clarks Hill Lake flooded the abandoned town of Petersburg—formerly the third-largest city in Georgia. At one point, from the 1780s to the 1820s, Petersburg boasted a thriving upper class and a plethora of businesses, taverns, and community events. However, when cotton replaced tobacco as the crop in demand, Petersburg’s tobacco-centric economy quickly crumbled. One by one, the town members left, diminishing Petersburg to the classic ghost town.

Nevertheless, Clarks Hill residents have not forgotten Petersburg. In 2002, when the area experienced a severe drought and water levels dropped, residents discovered foundations, pottery, old roads, and fences—remnants of an old town long-drowned by modern waters.

Veteran’s Lake, Oklahoma

Veteran's Lake in Oklahoma, supposedly one of the most haunted places in the state.
Photo Courtesy of Yall.com

Although Veteran’s Lake offers plenty of recreational fun, Oklahoma residents have consistently placed it on the list of the most haunted places in the state. As the story goes, in the 1950s, a woman was watching her son play in the lake. Despite only being distracted for a moment, when she looked up, she frantically discovered that her son had vanished under the water. She immediately jumped into the lake to rescue him. However, in the process of saving him, she was pulled under. They both drowned that day.

In the years since, Veteran’s Lake visitors have reported seeing two apparitions—the frantic mother and her waning son—searching the lake, seeking their next victims. Additionally, some report witnessing a ghostly woman floating around the lake, asking visitors to save her child from drowning.

Lake Superior, Michigan

The Kamloops, a ship that mysteriously sunk in 1927, with a ghost who still roams its rooms underwater.
Photo Courtesy of Isle Royale National Park

Many mariners say that Lake Superior, the colossal Great Lake, “seldom gives up her dead.” Certainly, this quote proves true in the case of the 1927 disappearance of the SS Kamloops. For fifty years, the ship’s vanishing remained a mystery. However, in 1977, unsuspecting divers stumbled upon the fully intact SS Kamloops, preserved by the frigid depths of Lake Superior. Inside, they found pristine cabins containing drawers filled with folded clothes and leather shoes. They even discovered 1927 Lifesavers that had yet to deteriorate. By all means, it seemed that the ship had been prepared for visitors.

And perhaps it was, considering that the divers reported that a real corpse—colloquially called “Old Whitey”—followed them around the boat. The icy water had acted as a natural refrigerator for the ghostly Old Whitey. Although his body was rigid and his skin was ivory, he had remained unspoiled. Despite feeling initially spooked by Old Whitey’s appearance, the divers soon learned that he was anything but malicious. Wearing an old wedding ring on his finger, he floated by them peacefully. If anything, he seemed happy to have some company.

We hope you stayed close enough to your lakeside campfire to shake off those goosebumps! Happy Halloween from Lake Homes Realty!

Top 5 Deepest Lakes in the U.S.

Posted on Camille Smith

Previously on the Lake Homes Realty blog, we’ve written about the deepest lakes across the world. From Russia’s Lake Baikal to Antarctica’s Lake Vostok, these lakes are full of fascinating endemic species and mysterious waters that have yet to be explored. However, you don’t have to travel across the globe to discover deep lakes. Chances are, there could be one in your home state. Today, we’re taking a look at the deepest lakes in the U.S.

 

Crater Lake, Oregon (1,949 feet deep)

Not only is Crater Lake the deepest lake in the U.S., but it also ranks as the ninth deepest lake in the world. However, its size may be its least fascinating feature. This massive lake was caused by a volcano eruption from Mount Mazama 7,700 years ago. The volcanic blast created a six-mile crater that eventually became a lake. Due to the nature of its formation, Crater Lake does not have any streams or rivers flowing into it, and the amount of water remains stable. Its landlocked form also prevents fish from inhabiting its waters, so any fish you may see in Crater Lake have been artificially stocked.

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada (1,645 feet deep)

Located in the Sierra mountain range in California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe has some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. It’s also the largest alpine lake in North America — the word “alpine” referring to its high altitude in the mountains. Because of its sheer beauty and great summer and wintertime activities, Lake Tahoe is a popular tourist destination. You can enjoy sports like skiing and snowboarding during the winter months, while summer brings boating, sunbathing, and fishing. It’s no wonder that several movies were filmed there, including The Godfather Part II and City of Angels. 

Lake Chelan, Washington (1,486 feet deep)

Photo courtesy of Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce via Seattle Magazine

The third deepest lake in the U.S. is located in the Pacific Northwest region. Specifically, Chelan County in Washington State is home to this large lake. Appropriately, its name comes from the Salish indigenous word for “deep water.” Before 1927, it was the largest natural lake in the state until the Lake Chelan dam construction. Besides its size, the glacier-fed Chelan Lake is also beautiful, surrounded by a range of cascading mountains. It’s perfect for enjoying a scenic view while you’re having a picnic, riding a jet ski, or simply relaxing. While you’re in the region, you can spend time at local wine vineyards at the Lake Chelan Wine Valley. If you’re an angler, you’ll want to invest in this lake’s fishing opportunities, predominantly bass, salmon, and rainbow trout.

Lake Superior, Michigan/Wisconsin/Minnesota (1,332 feet deep)

Photo courtesy of Seek the World

The fourth deepest lake in the country, Lake Superior, is the deepest lake with Lake Homes Realty listings. Bordering Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota, Lake Superior is the largest of the Great Lakes. In fact, it also holds the title of the world’s largest freshwater lake by surface area. Lake Superior’s waters are a crucial resource, as this vast lake contains 10% of the earth’s surface freshwater. Along its shores, there’s plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Specifically, Lake Superior is known for its nearby national parks, including Isle Royale National Park, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, and the Grand Island National Recreation Area. 

Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho (1,158 feet deep)

Photo courtesy of VisitNorthIdaho.com

This lake’s impressive history dates back to the Ice Age. Formed by glaciers that flooded during this period, it’s a huge natural lake that has served an essential function in human life since pre-recorded history. Located near the Rocky Mountains, Lake Pend Oreille is known for its natural beauty. It’s also renowned for recreation, with several nearby parks, including Farragut State Park, Garfield Bay, and City Beach. While you’re out fishing for Kamloops (a large rainbow trout species, often exceeding 20 pounds), you can spot fascinating wildlife, such as ospreys and fish hawks.

U.S. Lakes With the Longest Shorelines

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Life in the Finger Lakes.

When you think of the country’s largest lakes, which ones come to mind? It’s most likely one of the Great Lakes bordering U.S. states, Lake Michigan or Lake Superior.

Boasting an impressive area of 22,300 square miles and 31,700 square miles, respectively, these two are our nation’s largest lakes. However, if we look at a lake’s shoreline rather than surface area, the results might surprise you.

Although there is undoubtedly overlap as some of the Great Lakes have large surface areas and shorelines, hidden gems like Alabama’s Wheeler Lake, Kentucky’s Lake Cumberland, and Georgia’s Hartwell Lake are among the top 20 longest shorelines in the country.

But today, we’ll be focusing on the top five. Check out these lakes with the longest shorelines!

Lake of the Woods

Photo courtesy of The New York Times.

Lake of the Woods takes the cake for the longest shoreline in the U.S., stretching 25,000 miles. However, if you also count the shoreline of its tens of thousands of islands (14,522 to be exact), that number reaches 65,000. Bordering Minnesota and Canada, Lake of the Woods is a beautiful area with a lesser-known but sizable and affordable real estate market.

If you rent or buy a lake home on this lake, you’ll be privy to plenty of fishing opportunities. The Lake of the Woods is known as the Walleye capital of the world. Further, if you enjoy spotting wildlife, you’re also likely to see white pelicans, caribou, and bald eagles on this massive lake. 

The Great Salt Lake

Photo courtesy of @lillianrachel via Twenty20.

Utah’s Great Salt Lake comes in second with a shoreline of 10,000 miles. Lake Bonneville’s remnant, an ancient freshwater lake from the last ice age, has become an iconic destination in the western United States. But if you’re a Salt Lake City resident, chances are, you’ll be spending much more time on the shoreline than in the lake itself.

Known as the “Dead Sea of America,” its high salt content makes it much saltier than ocean water. As such, locals advise visitors to stay away from swimming unless you’d like to ingest salt. However, there’s a lot to see and do around the lake area. Notably, the Great Salt Lake is an excellent bird-watching spot, as it’s a refuge for birds during migration season. 

Lake Huron

Photo courtesy of Northern Ontario Travel.

Although it’s the third largest of the Great Lakes based on water volume, Lake Huron wins the longest Great Lake shoreline title at 3,825 miles. If combined with the adjacent Lake Michigan (the two are often considered one lake called Lake Michigan-Huron), this number increases to 5,463 miles.

This glacial lake is known for the Big Blow, a 1913 storm in which 90 mph winds produced ocean-like waves, causing several shipwrecks. However, thankfully, no such storm has occurred for the last 100 years.

Now, you can spend your time on Lake Huron’s shores searching for the rumored sea monster named Mishebeshu (“great lynx”). Legend has it; this serpent has an underwater den in this Great Lake. 

Lake Superior

Photo courtesy of KOA.

The name “Superior” says it all. By surface area alone, Lake Superior is the world’s largest freshwater lake. It contains 10% of the world’s surface freshwater, making it an essential natural resource.

Although its shoreline does not rank in the country’s top three, it still earns an impressive spot at number four with 2,726 miles of shoreline. Along its remarkable coastline, there are several natural and cultural attractions to visit. Some of the major sites include Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Presque Isle Park, and Wisconsin’s Ashland Murals. 

Kentucky Lake

Photo courtesy of Eddy Creek.

This contender in the “longest shoreline” rankings may come as a surprise, not usually included in a list of lake superlatives. However, Kentucky Lake is the largest human-made lake east of the Mississippi with 2,380 miles of shoreline. It’s one of the many lakes created by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) initiatives under Franklin D. Roosevelt’s administration geared towards providing navigation, electricity generation, and flood control after the Great Depression.

Kentucky Lake’s long shoreline is optimal for anglers. This lake is home to records for the largest white bass, yellow perch, and buffalo carp ever caught. Who knows? You could hold the next record! 

Which of these lakes with the longest shorelines do you want to visit next? For more lakes with shorelines of all sizes, check out our listings at Lakehomes.com! 

The Best Stargazing Spots in Our Lake Areas

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Antelope Pointe Marina.

If you’re new to lake living, there’s one stunning natural feature that may shock you — the abundance of stars visible at night. In the city, light pollution masks most stars, revealing only a few each night. According to NPR, light pollution hides the milky way from 80% of North America. It’s astonishing how much of the sky we’re missing each night. But at the lake, the number of visible bright stars is surprising.

You can even download apps to help you trace constellations while stargazing at your lake house. While most lake homes offer better stargazing opportunities than the city or suburban houses, some lake areas shine a little brighter than others. These locations tend to be situated in remote areas with higher altitudes. Check out our top five best lakes for stargazing! 

Priest Lake, ID

Photo courtesy of Craig Goodwin via The Spokesman-Review.

Priest Lake is a tranquil space in Northern Idaho surrounded by cedar and hemlock forests. Its remote location makes it perfect for stargazing. As evidence of its beauty, one photographer took stunning photos of the night sky over Priest Lake. However, his phenomenon isn’t specific to this one lake. Some say that the state of Idaho is the gold standard for stargazing. It’s home to the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, where visitors can see not only stars but also the milky way and meteors. 

Lake Superior, MI

Photo courtesy of Pure Michigan.

According to Outside online magazine, Michigan has some of the best places for stargazing, due to its remote lakes and national parks. For instance, Isle Royale National Park, in the middle of Lake Superior, is renowned for stargazing opportunities. Due to its location in the lake’s center, it’s one of the most remote national parks in the U.S. The scarcity of unnatural light makes it perfect for enjoying the stars at night. 

Lake Winnipesaukee, NH

Photo courtesy of VisitNH.com.

In the state of New Hampshire, finding a spot without light pollution isn’t too difficult. On a clear night, the chances are that you’ll be able to see plenty of stars, whether you’re at a lake house or not.

This enhanced viewing is especially true for the Lake Winnipesaukee area. Located in the White Mountain foothills, this is the largest lake in the state with a whopping 182 miles of shoreline.

Besides its status as one of the best stargazing spots, Lake Winnipesaukee is also a glacial lake. Its most recent glaciation reversed its water flow from southeast to west where it flows today. 

Raystown Lake, PA

Photo courtesy of The Franklin Institute.

Raystown Lake is called the “Crown Jewel of Pennsylvania.” One of these reasons is its surrounding natural beauty. Its 8,300 acres of clear water is surrounded by 21,000 acres of tree-covered Appalachian mountains.

This remote location makes it one of the best stargazing spots in the country. While you’re outside, you may even catch a glimpse of Raystown Ray, the lake monster that allegedly lives in its waters. 

Lake Eufaula, OK

Carlton Lookout – Lake Eufaula, OK.
Photo courtesy of Pinterest.

Lake Eufaula is the largest lake in Oklahoma, and it’s also one of the most peaceful. Its downtown area, comprising 20 blocks, is registered on the National Register of Historic Places, adding to its charm.

For a specific stargazing location, head over to Carlton’s Landing named an incredibly starry spot by an Oklahoma travel website. Rent a cozy cottage and enjoy a stellar view of the milky way. 

Are you interested in a remote, rustic lake house with stargazing opportunities? Check out our listings on these five lakes, as well as hundreds of more lakes across the country. When you’ve found your dream home, enjoy the night air, and prepare to be starstruck! 

Top 5 Deepest Lakes in the World

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of travelmedford.com.

Whether it’s the mystery of “what lies beneath” or the sheer natural wonder, deep waters are fascinating. The U.S. is home to many deep lakes, including Crater Lake in Oregon, which is deep enough to fit One World Trade Center with 200 feet to spare. In the Lake Homes market footprint, Lake Superior ranks the deepest at 1,333 feet. Although we love our country’s lakes, today, we appreciate the five deepest lakes across the globe. 

Lake Baikal (5,577 feet)

Photo courtesy of remotelands.com.

This Russian UNESCO World Heritage site could fit the world’s two tallest buildings (Burj Khalifa and the Makkah Royal Clock Tower) plus the Washington Monument. It also contains almost 20% of the world’s unfrozen freshwater reserve. Not only is Lake Baikal the world’s deepest lake– it’s also the oldest. It was formed 25 million years ago through the planet’s diverging crust. Baikal’s age and isolation have resulted in unique freshwater fauna. More than 1,500 animal species reside in Lake Baikal, 80% of which are endemic (i.e., they don’t live anywhere else in the world). One of these creatures is the Nerpa seal, the world’s only freshwater seal. As photographer James Napoli documented for National Geographic, they like to lounge on the lake’s rocks. If you visit Baikal in winter, be sure to dress appropriately, as it can reach minus 40 degrees. It is Siberia, after all! 

Lake Tanganyika (4,700 feet)

Photo courtesy of marvetanzania.com.

Tanganyika is a massive lake in Africa that borders four countries: Tanzania, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Zambia. Its depth results from proximity to The Great Rift Valley, a pronounced fissure in the earth’s crust. Besides being the second deepest lake, it’s also the world’s longest freshwater lake. Its remarkably clear waters (visible of up to 65 feet) are 350 species of tropical fish. Most of these fish are cichlids, and 90% of them are endemic. Similar to Lake Baikal, Lake Tanganyika’s old age and seclusion helped these fish flourish. It’s no wonder Tanganyika is renowned for aquarium exports and angling. If you visit, be sure to skip the swimming — this deep lake is home to crocodiles! 

Caspian Sea (3,360 feet)

Photo courtesy of edgekz.com.

Despite its name, the Caspian Sea is both a sea and lake. However, the distinction is more than semantics. If it’s a sea, the United Nations splits the sea’s ownership based on the neighboring countries’ shoreline length. However, if it’s a lake, countries can evenly divide ownership. As such, its surrounding nations (Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan) quarrel over its ownership. Kazakhstan, with the longest coastline, would prefer a “sea” classification. But Iran with a shorter border, will vote for “lake.” It’s unsurprising why this body of water is coveted — it’s famous for its oil and natural gas. According to the U.S. Energy and Information Administration, the Caspian Sea produces 2.6 million barrels of crude oil per day. Besides its economic value, bathing in these oils can heal up to 70 ailments, according to one doctor at a spa in Azerbaijan. 

Lake Vostok (2,950 feet)

Photo courtesy of greenarea.me.

Vostok, near the South Pole, is one of the earth’s most intense climates. It’s home to the lowest recorded temperature on the earth’s surface at minus 89.2 degrees. However, the lake is even colder below the surface. For at least 15 million years, Lake Vostok has been covered by 1.2 miles of thick ice. Its presence was unknown until the 1960s when a Russian pilot noticed its outline from the sky. In the 1990s, researchers confirmed this subglacial lake’s existence. Today, only scientists can visit. When first studying the lake, Russian researchers at Vostok Station were intrigued by its lack of access to sunlight and nutrients. They thought a climate akin to Jupiter’s moons must be inhospitable to life. However, recent research indicates that there is life beneath its waters. This discovery points to the possibility of life on other planets. Check out NASA’s video from scientist Dr. David Morrison describing Lake Vostok’s space-related implications.

Lake O’ Higgins/ San Martín (2,742 feet)

Photo courtesy of travelblog.org.

Divided between Chili and Argentina, Lake O’ Higgins/ San Martín is the deepest lake in the Americas and 5th deepest in the world. Its depth is caused by the constant glacial movement that erodes the lake’s floor. Its irregular shape distinguishes it with eight distinct arms and the water’s milky blue color is caused by rock flour. The lake is also known for its steep surrounding mountains that were not inhabited until the early 1900s. If you’re confused by the lake’s double name, the answer depends on your country. If you’re in Chili, it’s Lago O’Higgins and San Martín in Argentina. Both sides are named for influential leaders, Argentinian Jose de San Martín and Chilean Bernardo O’Higgins, who fought for Chile’s independence in the early 1800s. 

For more lake-related trivia, check out American Lakes With the Highest Elevation and 5 of the World’s Largest Man-Made Lakes.

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Lake Homes Realty Enters Great Lakes Region

Posted on Staff

Alabama-based Lake Homes Realty has expanded to the Great Lakes region, with brokerage operations now in the state of Michigan.

As a licensed brokerage in Michigan, Lake Homes Realty now operates on four of the five Great Lakes, including Lake Erie, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, and Lake Superior.

Map of the Great Lakes

This area boasts prosperous lake real estate markets, with Lake Michigan offering more than $1 billion in property for sale.

“As a brokerage, we are able better to serve our lake real estate buyers, sellers, and our own agents with each state we add to our service area,” said Lake Homes Realty CEO Glenn S. Phillips.

“As we look forward into 2018, I’m proud of our team’s efforts to grow this company and the success we’ve seen this year. The new year is sure to be just as exciting as we work toward opening operations in several more states.”

Lake Homes Realty already has licensed agents in Michigan and is currently in discussions with prospective agents across the state.

“We are looking for agents who understand the power of the LakeHomes.com platform and who are dedicated to providing top-level customer service to our clients,” Phillips said.

“The power of people combined with the power of the web is critical for success as a real estate brokerage.”

The company also shared that growth in existing markets is continuing across the southeast and the southwest U.S.

About Lake Homes Realty

Lake Homes Realty is one of the nation’s fastest-growing real estate companies and is a full-service, lake-focused real estate brokerage currently operating in 17 states. The company’s unique operations model is built around the concept of a one-stop website for lake homes and land while coupling this with the brokerage’s licensed local market expert real estate agents.

The company has foregone a focus on brick-and-mortar locations, choosing to instead invest in a select group of top-producing local agents and in providing consolidated lake real estate listings for consumers via the company website www.LakeHomes.com.

Lake Homes Realty was named #927 on the 2017 Inc 5,000 and has been recently featured by Realtor® Magazine.

The company has also been named by the Birmingham Business Journal as one of the 30 fastest-growing businesses in Birmingham each of the past three years.