Tag: lake trivia

U.S. Lakes That Could Swallow Entire Cities (And Some Basically Have)

Posted on Oscar Gipson

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

These U.S. lakes are so huge, deep, and wild that they make entire towns look like bath toys.

Photo Courtesy of Flickr

If you think lakes are just for kayaking and lazy summer days, think again. Some of the largest natural lakes in the U.S. are absolute monsters — deep enough to hide skyscrapers, wide enough to lose cell service halfway across, and powerful enough to reshape the land around them. Here are the U.S. lakes that could literally swallow cities… and in some cases, already have.

1. Lake Superior – The Ocean in Disguise

Photo Courtesy of Flickr

Max Depth: 1,333 feet

Size: 31,700 square miles (yes, that’s bigger than South Carolina)

Fun Fact: It contains 10% of all the surface freshwater on the planet.

Could Swallow: Most U.S. cities… and your ego.

Lake Superior doesn’t play. This lake has sunk massive freighters like the Edmund Fitzgerald, produces ocean-style storms, and still manages to look peaceful. But beneath that smooth surface lies a watery world deeper than the Grand Canyon is tall — and more vast than your wildest summer vacation dreams.

2. Lake Michigan – The City-Hugger With Serious Depth

Photo Courtesy of Flickr

Max Depth: 925 feet

Size: 22,400 square miles

Fun Fact: It’s the only Great Lake entirely within the U.S.

Could Swallow: Chicago’s skyline… twice.

Lake Michigan is iconic — think Chicago’s shimmering lakefront, windswept dunes, and summer festivals. But don’t forget: it has the muscle of an inland sea. Its waves can hit 20+ feet, and at its deepest, you could sink the Willis Tower (formerly Sears) and still not hit bottom.

3. Lake Pend Oreille (Idaho) – Submarine-Level Secrets

Photo Courtesy of NAVSEA

Max Depth: 1,150 feet

Size: 148 square miles

Fun Fact: The U.S. Navy tests submarines here… yes, really.

Could Swallow: An entire fleet.

Tucked into the mountains of northern Idaho, Pend Oreille is colder, deeper, and more mysterious than most people realize. Its twisted shoreline hides quiet coves and dramatic cliffs, and its remote, alpine vibe is unmatched. If you’re into secret military operations, bald eagles, or lakes that act like oceans — this one’s for you.

4. Lake Tahoe – Deep Enough for Urban Legends

Photo Courtesy of Flickr

Max Depth: 1,645 feet

Size: 191 square miles

Fun Fact: Tahoe is deeper than almost any lake in the U.S., and second only to Crater Lake.

Could Swallow: San Francisco’s Transamerica Pyramid with room to spare.

Straddling California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is famous for crystal-clear water, snow-capped peaks, and… ghost stories? Yep. Its depth has inspired legends about everything from gangsters dumping bodies to mysterious lake creatures. One thing’s for sure: Tahoe’s beauty runs very deep.

5. Lake Chelan (Washington) – The Inland Fjord

Photo Courtesy of Flickr

Max Depth: 1,486 feet

Size: 50 miles long, only 1 mile wide

Fun Fact: Formed by glaciers, it feels like a fjord that got lost on the way to Norway.

Could Swallow: Most of downtown Seattle, easily.

Lake Chelan is long, skinny, and ridiculously deep. The surrounding mountains plunge straight into the lake, creating postcard views and underwater canyons. It’s popular for houseboats, wineries, and secret hot springs — but it’s also a total beast when it comes to depth and scale.

6. Lake Mead – The Reservoir That Hid a City

Photo Courtesy of National Park Service

Max Depth: 532 feet (at full pool)

Fun Fact: Built by Hoover Dam, this lake submerged entire towns.

Could Swallow: Boulder City, and it basically did.

Okay, it’s technically a reservoir, but Lake Mead still deserves a spot. When it filled up in the 1930s, it covered entire communities. Recently, low water levels have revealed eerie sights — including ghost towns, sunken boats, and even human remains. It’s basically the Atlantis of the American Southwest.

Honorable Mention: Crater Lake (Oregon) – The Deepest of Them All

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Max Depth: 1,949 feet

Size: 21 square miles

Fun Fact: Formed by a volcano over 7,000 years ago.

Could Swallow: The entire Statue of Liberty… nearly twice.

Crater Lake is deep, mysterious, and hauntingly beautiful. Fed entirely by snow and rain, it’s one of the cleanest lakes in the world — and one of the eeriest. Scientists and adventurers alike are obsessed with its pristine blue water and steep, volcanic walls.

Final Splash:
These lakes are not your average swimming holes. They’re ancient, powerful, and sometimes downright terrifying in scale. Whether you’re boating across them or just looking out from shore, one thing is clear — they could easily swallow your hometown without leaving a trace.

Looking for more lake trivia? Check out these articles HERE.

7 Lakes So Strange You’ll Think They’re From Another Planet

Posted on Oscar Gipson

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Photo Courtesy of RVshare

There are lakes… and then there are lakes so bizarre, so surreal, they seem like something out of a sci-fi movie. These rare bodies of water defy logic, captivate scientists, and leave adventurers awestruck. In this article, we’ll explore some of the strangest lakes around the world.

Some boil from the Earth’s core, while others shine in shades of neon pink or blood-red. A few are hidden beneath miles of ancient ice, sealed off from life for millions of years. And one lake even turns animals into statues.

So pack your metaphorical passport. We’re taking you on a strange and thrilling journey to discover 7 of the most unusual lakes on Earth—places that feel more like alien worlds than parts of our own planet.

1. Lake Natron, Tanzania – The Petrifying Mirror of Death

Lake Natron | CloudSafaris
Photo Courtesy of Cloud Safaris

Nestled in northern Tanzania near the Kenyan border, Lake Natron is perhaps the most eerie lake on Earth. With scorching temperatures up to 140°F (60°C) and a caustic pH of 10.5—similar to ammonia—this lake is inhospitable to nearly all forms of life.

But its most mysterious feature is its ability to calcify animals. Birds that mistake its glassy surface for a safe landing zone often succumb to the harsh conditions. Their bodies are preserved by the lake’s high sodium carbonate content, appearing as if turned to stone.

Despite the lake’s harshness, some flamingos thrive here, nesting safely on salt islands due to the lack of predators. The surrounding Great Rift Valley landscape only adds to the haunting atmosphere, with craggy volcanic hills and the looming Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano watching over this chemical cauldron.

2. Boiling Lake, Dominica – The Earth’s Steaming Breath

Photo Courtesy of Flickr

Hidden deep in Dominica’s Morne Trois Pitons National Park, Boiling Lake is a mysterious, churning pool of gray-blue water roughly 200 feet across. It is the second-largest hot lake in the world, and it simmers constantly—sometimes even violently.

Fed by volcanic vents, the lake emits clouds of steam so thick they shroud it from view. When visible, the lake appears to be a portal to the Earth’s core, its boiling surface in constant motion. Temperatures around the edges reach 180–197°F (82–92°C), while the center is too dangerous to measure.

To reach this incredible natural wonder, travelers must hike a challenging 6- to 8-hour trail through a surreal landscape of steaming rocks, bubbling mud, and sulfur vents—a true adventurer’s quest.

3. Lake Hillier, Australia – The Bubblegum Mystery

Photo Courtesy of The West Australian

Located on Middle Island in Western Australia’s Recherche Archipelago, Lake Hillier is a sight that defies explanation. From above, the lake’s vivid pink hue stands out boldly against the surrounding dense green forest and the turquoise Southern Ocean.

While similar pink lakes exist, Lake Hillier is unique because its water retains the pink color even when scooped into a container. Scientists believe the color comes from Dunaliella salina algae and halophilic bacteria, which produce red pigments in saline environments—but the exact cause remains unknown.

This lake is not open for swimming due to its remote, protected location, but you can view it via scenic flights from Esperance or boat tours that circle Middle Island.

4. Kawah Ijen Crater Lake, Indonesia – The Blue Flame of Java

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Deep in East Java, Indonesia, the Kawah Ijen volcano holds a turquoise lake that’s as deadly as it is beautiful. Its acidic waters are the most acidic on Earth, with a pH of 0.5. But the real marvel begins after sunset.

Photo Courtesy of Geology Science

At night, sulfuric gases vent from the crater and ignite upon contact with oxygen, creating brilliant blue flames that dance across the dark landscape like supernatural fire. The lake and its surreal glow have made Kawah Ijen a magnet for photographers and thrill-seekers alike.

Despite the danger, sulfur miners descend into the crater daily, chiseling blocks of solid sulfur from near the flames—an act of bravery amid one of the planet’s most alien terrains.

5. Spotted Lake, Canada – Nature’s Color Wheel

Photo Courtesy of Geology Science

Found in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley near the town of Osoyoos, Spotted Lake (Kliluk) is a sacred site to the Syilx First Nation and a truly strange natural wonder.

In summer, much of the lake’s water evaporates, revealing hundreds of mineral-rich pools that crystallize in vibrant hues of yellow, blue, and green. The colors shift depending on the concentration of magnesium sulfate, calcium, and sodium.

While access is restricted out of respect for the land’s cultural significance, a roadside viewpoint offers a stunning perspective on this polka-dotted puzzle of nature.

6. Lake Resia, Italy – The Drowned Village

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

On the surface, Lake Resia (Lago di Resia) appears peaceful—until you see the eerie 14th-century bell tower rising from the water like a ghostly sentinel. Located in the South Tyrol region near the Austrian border, this lake covers what was once the village of Graun.

In 1950, the area was flooded to create a hydroelectric dam, and over 150 families were displaced. Today, the bell tower remains above the surface, especially in winter when the lake freezes, allowing visitors to walk right up to it.

7. Laguna Colorada, Bolivia – The Blood-Red Lake of the Altiplano

Photo Courtesy of Flickr

Set at an altitude of 14,000 feet in Bolivia’s Eduardo Avaroa Reserve, Laguna Colorada is a shallow salt lake featuring a red hue, tinted by red algae and pigmentation from sediments. White borax islands rise from the surface, and hundreds of flamingos wade through the crimson waters.

With llamas grazing nearby and distant mountains casting reflections in the lake’s surface, the scene is mesmerizing and mystical.

Each of these strange lakes challenges what we think we know about Earth. They blur the lines between reality and imagination, science and myth, and remind us how much mystery still exists right here at home.

Whether you’re an armchair explorer or a fearless traveler, these lakes are proof that the most extraordinary adventures don’t always require leaving the planet—they just require curiosity, courage, and wonder.

For more lake trivia articles, check out Lake Homes Lifestyles.

Histories of the Deep: What Lies Beneath Lake Norman

Posted on Linda Thach

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

The beautiful Lake Norman in North Carolina is a popular destination for lake enthusiasts, drawing in millions of lake-goers each year. With over 500 miles of shoreline, spanning across four counties, Lake Norman is North Carolina’s largest man-made lake. However, before it became a lake, the land that was flooded in creating it was once teeming with activity. From mill towns to a historic battlefield, today, we’re uncovering the history that lies beneath the vast depths of Lake Norman.

Submerged Ghost Towns of Long Island Mill and East Monbo Mill

Long Island Mill and Village
East Monbo Dam and Mill

In 1959, two mills, Long Island Mill and East Monbo Mill, and their accompanying villages were closed down to make way for the installation of Lake Norman. Built in the 1800s, the mills employed over 200 families that resided in the mill villages. In addition to farmland, the villages included churches, cemeteries, houses, and a post office. Some villagers relocated their homes (literally had them picked up), while some had remains from the cemeteries moved. Although most buildings were destroyed, some structural ruins and foundations remain beneath Lake Norman.

Visual representation of the locations of the mills, which are now mostly underwater.

Site of the Historic Battle of Cowan’s Ford Underwater

A Revolutionary War battle, known as the Battle of Cowan’s Ford, took place on February 1, 1787, at Cowan’s Ford on the Catawba River in Mecklenburg County, NC. 2,440 British soldiers marched across the river and met 800 American soldiers on the other side. This modern-day map, created by AmRevNC.com, shows possible key events of the battle.

The American forces lost their general, William Lee David, marking a victory for the British. However, this event laid the groundwork for the Battle of Guilford Courthouse, which facilitated the British’s eventual surrender at Yorktown.

This battle site now rests at the bottom of Lake Norman.

Elmwood Plantation House Sits at the Bottom of Lake Norman

The Elmwood plantation house was built by John Davidson Graham, the son of the Revolutionary War hero Joseph Graham, in the 1820s. The Georgian-style house sat on a 1,200-plus-acre cotton plantation where the family produced cotton through the early 1900s. However, during the Great Depression, Duke Power purchased Elmwood and the plantation with the intention of eventually flooding it to create Lake Norman. Duke allowed the family to reside on the property for two decades until it was dismantled in 1959. The family attempted to take apart the house and restore it in Old Salem. But in 1961, the barn used to store the home’s interior caught fire, and the project was abandoned. The plantation’s exterior now sits at the bottom of Lake Norman.

Old Highway 150 Bridge and Beattie’s Ford Bridge Beneath Lake Norman

The Old Highway 150 Bridge, which connected Catawba and Iredell counties, was partially destroyed as Lake Norman was filled. Its remnants lie beneath the lake’s surface. The new bridge was built 33 feet higher and located 100 feet from where the original bridge once stood.

Beattie’s Ford Bridge, a major crossing over the Catawba River on Highway 73, was demolished to make way for Lake Norman. The bridge’s supports are still present 75 feet underwater.

1974 Plane Crash in Lake Norman

In 2013, a dive team, while performing practice drills on Lake Norman, found a submerged Lake LA-4 aircraft. The team was using sonar technology when they located the plane under 90 feet of water. FAA records show that the aircraft was involved in an accident that led to its demise. The plane’s last owner was a North Carolina resident.

Lake Norman provides fresh water and flood control for the areas surrounding it. As lake goers enjoy the lake lifestyle, many are unaware of the incredible history that lies beneath the lake. From abandoned homes to submerged bridges, as new memories are made on the lake, its past continues to intrigue us.

For more interesting lake stories, check out Lake Homes Lifestyles.

[MSN Money] The 46 best American lake towns to live in all year round, according to data

Posted on Linda Thach

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Photo courtesy of Pixabay

In addition to the 10,000 lakes in Minnesota, the United States is also known for its lake towns that have gained recognition nationwide and sometimes even globally.

Being designated as a “lake town” can carry more weight in defining a city’s character than its mere proximity to bodies of water. Throughout history, lakes have played important roles in the development of early American industries and served as vital hubs for transportation and trade. As these waterfront communities evolved into the 20th century, they embraced modernization by nurturing vibrant downtown areas, diverse shopping districts, thriving business sectors, flourishing arts scenes, and outstanding educational opportunities, including leading schools and research institutions.

“And these towns could soon see an influx of new residents—in a spring 2025 report, the CEO of Lake Homes Realty predicted that the amount of lakefront real estate transactions will increase by 15% in 2025 compared to 2024.” – MSN Money

To find the top U.S. lake towns to live in, Stacker examined 2021 data from WalletHub, focusing on 46 towns with beaches on TripAdvisor and populations of 10,000 to 150,000. The study considered affordability, weather, safety, economy, education and health, and quality of life.

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Historical Facts About the Finger Lakes Region

Posted on Linda Thach

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Photo courtesy of Kevin Colton

When people hear “Finger Lakes,” Cayuga Lake, Keuka Lake, and Seneca Lake usually come to mind. However, there are a total of eleven lakes in the area. In fact, the entire Finger Lakes Region spans fourteen counties and covers over 9,000 miles. With such a vast area comes some fascinating history, most of which you probably didn’t know. Are you ready to travel back in time to uncover some of the area’s most interesting historical facts? Here are our top six:

The Home of Jell-O

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

While various gelatinous or “jelly” desserts have been around as early as the 15th century, Jell-O, as we know it today, was founded by Pearle Bixby Wait in LeRoy, New York, in 1897. Wait and his wife, May, created the product by adding various fruits and sugar to granulated gelatin. In 1899, the product was sold to Frank Woodward, owner of Genesee Pure Food Company. Several years later, in 1923, the company was renamed Jell-O Company. In 1925, Jell-O Company merged with Postum Cereal to become the General Foods Corporation, which is now known as Kraft/General Foods.

The First Female Private Detective: Kate Warne

Photo courtesy of the Chicago History Museum via NPS.gov

Born in 1833 in Erin, New York, a small town in Chemung County, little is known about Kate Warne‘s life before her espionage career. She was born into a low-income family and was widowed by the age of 23. In 1856, her fascinating career began when she joined the Pinkerton Detective Agency as their first female detective and perhaps the first-ever female detective in the country. She was involved in many cases, but the most notable is the assassination attempt on the then President-elect Abraham Lincoln. Her work continued during and after the Civil War. In addition to her espionage work, she also ran the agency’s Female Detective Bureau, leading and developing other female agents.

The Largest Pancake Griddle in the World

Photo courtesy of Birkett Mills via Exploring Upstate

Birkett Mills, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of buckwheat products, broke the world record in 1987 for constructing the largest pancake griddle, measuring 28 feet in diameter. After its completion, the company celebrated its unveiling by cooking the world’s largest buckwheat pancake at the 12th Annual Buckwheat Harvest Festival on September 27th, 1987. The pancake took 15 gallons of cooking oil, 2,000 gallons of water, and 2,000 lbs of buckwheat to make. The massive flapjack was then topped off with a 2′ by 3′ slab of butter and slathered in 15 gallons of maple syrup. Located in Penn Yan, New York, the griddle now hangs on the side of the Birkett Mills corporate building.

Birthplace of Memorial Day

Photo courtesy of Liam Ortiz via Pixabay

After over a century of memorial events honoring deceased service men and women, on May 30th, 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson declared Memorial Day (originally known as Decoration Day) a holiday in Waterloo, New York. In 1968, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act was enacted and came into effect in 1971. It designated Memorial Day a national holiday and moved it from May 30th to the last Monday in May. Most recently, in December 2000, the National Moment of Remembrance resolution was passed, which asks for all Americans to voluntarily pause for a minute of silence at 3 p.m. for those who’ve lost their lives in service.

The First Cold Breakfast Cereal was Invented

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

In 1863, the first cold breakfast cereal was invented by James Caleb Jackson, a vegetarian who believed that a healthy diet was essential for overall good health. While experimenting with cereal as an illness cure at his health spa in Dansville, NY, he developed a new type of breakfast cereal, which he called Granula. The cereal was made from bran-rich graham flour, which was mixed into a dough, rolled into sheets, and then baked. The sheets were then broken into small pieces and baked again before finally broken into smaller pieces. Granula never became popular because it had to be soaked overnight before it could be consumed. However, Granula inspired the creation of ready-to-eat cereals such as John Harvey Kellogg’s Cornflakes and Charles W. Post’s Grape-Nuts.

The First and Longest-Running Wine Trail in the U.S.

Photo courtesy of iloveny.com

Cayuga Lake Wine Trail is the country’s first and longest-running wine trail and is part of a broader network of wine trails (one of three) in the Finger Lakes Wine Country. Through the vision of Mary Plane of Cayuga Vineyards (now known as Cayuga Ridge Estates), five wineries around Cayuga Lake joined together and established the Cayuga Wine Lake Trail in 1983. With more wineries added over the years, CWLT now has 10 members, offering prestigious wines earning over 6,000 national and international medals. Situated along the west side of Cayuga Lake, the wine trail offers many attractions accompanied by breathtaking vistas and lake views. From scenic drives to exceptional dining to live music, the Cayuga Wine Lake Trail has something for everyone.

The Finger Lakes Region is known for its crystal clear lakes and majestic natural landscape. However, the area is rich in history. From wartime events to quirky discoveries, this area in Upstate New York has undoubtedly made an impact locally and nationwide.

For more stories on lake living, visit Lake Homes Lifestyles.

From Stream to River: The Fascinating World of Freshwater Mollusks

Posted on Oscar Gipson
Photo Courtesy of Animalia

When people think of mollusks, their minds often drift to the ocean—colorful seashells, squids with mesmerizing camouflage, or deep-sea nautiluses that have remained unchanged for millions of years. But there’s another world of mollusks, one that thrives in rivers, lakes, and streams: freshwater mollusks. Though they don’t get the same spotlight as their marine cousins, these soft-bodied creatures play a vital role in aquatic ecosystems and have fascinating survival strategies that deserve our attention.

Two Worlds, One Family: The Differences Between Freshwater and Marine Mollusks

Photo Courtesy of Rawpixel

Though freshwater and marine mollusks share a common ancestry, they have evolved unique adaptations to thrive in their respective environments.

Freshwater mollusks, like mussels and snails, inhabit rivers, lakes, and streams. They must withstand fluctuating temperatures, water flow, and oxygen levels. To aid in survival, many freshwater species rely on host fish to transport their larvae, helping them spread and establish new populations. Their shells tend to be thinner and more delicate due to the lower mineral content in freshwater.

Marine mollusks, on the other hand, include species like clams, oysters, and octopuses, which dwell in saltwater environments ranging from shallow shores to the deep sea. Many marine species are filter feeders, thriving in the nutrient-rich ocean, while cephalopods, such as squids and octopuses, have developed remarkable intelligence and agility. Their shells are often thicker and more calcium-rich due to the abundance of minerals in seawater, providing better protection against predators.

Nature’s Water Purifiers

Poelslak (Lymnaea stagnalis) | Taken in Meijendel, near Wass… | Flickr
Photo Courtesy of Flickr

Freshwater mussels are nature’s ultimate water purifiers, acting as living filters that help maintain the clarity and health of aquatic ecosystems. These mollusks continuously pump water through their bodies, capturing bacteria, algae, and organic debris. By removing excess nutrients and pollutants, they play a crucial role in preventing harmful algal blooms and maintaining the delicate balance of their environment.

The filtering power of mussels is truly impressive. A single mussel can filter up to 15 gallons of water per day, meaning that a dense mussel bed can purify thousands of gallons daily. This natural filtration benefits not only aquatic plants and animals but also humans, who rely on clean water for drinking, fishing, and recreation. Many conservationists are now recognizing mussels as key indicators of water quality, using their presence (or absence) to gauge the health of a river or lake.

However, despite their incredible benefits, freshwater mussels face numerous threats, including pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change. Many species are now endangered, making it more important than ever to protect these natural water filters. Conservation efforts, such as habitat restoration and reducing industrial runoff, are essential to ensuring that mussels continue to provide their invaluable ecosystem services for generations to come.

Tiny Titans of Biodiversity

Zebra mussels were first discovered at the Gavins Point - PICRYL - Public Domain Media Search Engine Public Domain Search
Photo Courtesy of PICRYL

With over 1,000 species worldwide, freshwater mollusks showcase an astonishing variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Some, like the Zebra Mussel, have gained attention for their invasive tendencies, but many others are vital to their native habitats. The Snuffbox Mussel and the Purple Lilliput Mussel, for example, are not just beautiful but are also indicators of a thriving ecosystem.

Despite their small size, freshwater mussels have a massive impact on their ecosystems. These tiny titans create microhabitats by burrowing into riverbeds, stabilizing sediments, and preventing erosion. Their presence enhances biodiversity, providing shelter for aquatic insects, fish, and other small organisms. As they filter water, they also recycle nutrients, enriching the ecosystem and supporting the food web. Without mussels, many freshwater habitats would lose their balance, making them essential players in maintaining a thriving aquatic environment.

Masters of Disguise & Survival

Photo Courtesy of Animalia Bio

Freshwater mollusks have developed some of the most ingenious survival strategies in the animal kingdom. Many species of mussels use fish-like lures to trick predatory fish into unknowingly assisting in their reproduction. These lures, often resembling small minnows or insects, attract fish that attempt to bite, only to be met with a cloud of mussel larvae (called glochidia) that attach to the fish’s gills. The host fish then transports the larvae to new areas, helping the mussels spread and colonize different parts of the waterway.

Beyond their clever reproductive tactics, many freshwater mollusks are also masters of camouflage. Some bury themselves in sediment to avoid predators, while others have shells that blend seamlessly with riverbeds and lake bottoms. This adaptation not only helps them avoid being eaten but also protects them from strong currents and environmental changes. These unique abilities make freshwater mollusks a vital yet often overlooked part of aquatic ecosystems, demonstrating how even the smallest creatures can have a profound impact on nature.

Freshwater mollusks shape their environments in ways that often go unnoticed. As natural water filters, they improve clarity and quality, while their presence stabilizes sediments and provides shelter for countless aquatic species. Their intricate relationships with fish and other wildlife highlight the complexity of freshwater ecosystems. Though they may not receive the same attention as their marine counterparts, these mollusks play an irreplaceable role in maintaining the delicate balance of rivers, lakes, and streams.

For more lake trivia, visit Lake Homes Lifestyles.

Best of Lifestyles: Top Lake Stories of 2024

Posted on Linda Thach

Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

From lake activities and outdoor living to lake home maintenance and design, here are the most-read lake lifestyle stories from 2024:

Looking back at the past year, we’re excited to present a selection of our most popular and thought-provoking articles from 2024. These pieces have ignited discussions, fueled creativity, and offered valuable insights on a range of subjects. Whether you’re exploring current trends or revisiting our standout content, we trust that you’ll find these articles both informative and inspiring. Cheers to the new year! We can’t wait to bring you more compelling stories about lake living in 2025!

Outdoor Living and Lake Activities

5 Toys You Need for Your Pontoon Boat

Looking to take your pontoon boating experience to the next level? Check out these 5 must-have accessories that will make your time on the water even more fun for you and your guests! MORE>>

Picnic on the Water: The Perfect Boat Food

Set sail for a delicious picnic on the water! Here is everything you need to plan the perfect boat feast, from grilled favorites to refreshing drinks and easy cleanup tips. MORE>>

Tips on How to Deal with Bugs & Insects on the Lake

Lake living offers countless benefits, such as scenic views and recreational freedom. Yet, like any location, there are minor drawbacks like dealing with bugs. Explore tips to manage insects and enhance your lake living experience. MORE>>

The Ultimate Top 40 Boating Playlist

Get ready for a fun-filled day on the lake with the ultimate lake day playlist! Here are 40 songs that are perfect for creating the perfect atmosphere for your next boating adventure. MORE>>

Home Maintenance and Design

Boat Dock Basics

Boats need a place to stay on the lake, and the different types of docks come with their own advantages and disadvantages. It’s important to consider your options before investing in a lake property with a dock. MORE>>

Boat House Design Ideas

A boat dock is crucial for storage and protection, but for enhanced security, weather protection, and added entertainment space, consider a boathouse. Explore design ideas for your lakeside property. MORE>>

Hardscapes 101: Top Design Ideas for Your Lakefront Landscape

Enhance your landscape with a balanced design, starting with hardscapes—bricks, wood, stone, and concrete elements that define outdoor spaces. MORE>>

Lake House Landscape sallie hill design

Low Maintenance Landscaping Tips for Your Lake House

A stunning lakefront landscape often involves intensive gardening, but low-maintenance options exist for a beautiful backyard at your lake home. Explore our tips for hassle-free landscaping. MORE>>

Trivia

Top 5 Deepest Lakes in the U.S.

Dive into the deep! From Crater Lake to Lake Tahoe, explore the top 5 deepest lakes in the US. Which one would you add to your bucket list? MORE>>

5 of the World’s Largest Man-Made Lakes

Explore the grandeur of five of the world’s largest man-made lakes and discover the remarkable scale and unique features of these impressive water reservoirs. MORE>>

lakes with the longest shorelines

U.S. Lakes With the Longest Shorelines

When envisioning the largest U.S. lakes, the Great Lakes likely come to mind. Yet, if we shift the focus to shorelines, surprises emerge. Explore the top five lakes with extensive shorelines! MORE>>

States with the Most and Fewest Lakes 

Uncover the geographical tapestry of the United States as we explore the unique landscapes of states with the most and fewest natural lakes. MORE>>

Travel and Leisure

Top Attractions at Lake Hamilton

Embark on a journey to explore the premier attractions of Lake Hamilton, Arkansas. Delve into this article for insights into the must-visit destinations that define this captivating lakeside locale. MORE>>

Top 10 Quaint Lake Towns

Dreaming of a charming escape? Take a trip to one of these quaint lake towns and experience the beauty of lakeside living! Featuring 10 hidden gems across the US, each offering stunning scenery, friendly communities, and endless fun. MORE>>

Things to Do Around Lake Chelan, WA 

Explore the beauty of Lake Chelan, WA! This lake destination offers something for everyone, from fishing and wine tasting to boat tours and water slides. MORE>>

9 Great Reasons Why People Love Living on the Water

Live life to the fullest by the water! From stunning views and serene atmosphere to abundant wildlife and a strong sense of community, discover 9 amazing reasons why people love living on the water. MORE>>

Real Estate

5 Ways Overpricing A Lake Home Costs Sellers

Putting your lake home on the market? Before you do, learn how overpricing hurts your sale, even if you think it’s a smart move. Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, explains why. MORE>>

Why Are Lake Home Owners Selling These Days?

Embracing the lake lifestyle is a dream for many individuals, but as of late, there seems to be a growing trend of people putting their lakefront properties on the market. What could be prompting this shift? MORE>>

The Hidden Costs of Keeping A Lake Home: Tips for First-time Buyers

Owning a lake house sounds idyllic, but there can be hidden costs! From repairs to maintenance, be sure to factor these costs into your budget! MORE>>

5 Questions Lake Home Buyers Should Answer

Before you start your buying process, it is crucial to understand that you need to be prepared to handle particular inquiries. Clearly defining your preferences for your perfect property will significantly help your real estate agent and improve your overall satisfaction. MORE>>

Top Ice-Skating Lakes Around the World

Posted on Camille Smith

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Originally published on January 8, 2021.

If you love ice skating and the great outdoors but haven’t experienced skating on a lake, you’re missing out. There’s no better feeling than gliding freely on ice while taking in the cool, fresh air. But luckily for us who live on the lake, this is an experience we’re fortunate to be able to enjoy in our backyard.

In cold-climate regions, due to lake stratification patterns, a solid layer of ice on top of cold-weathered lakes makes this sport possible. At Lake Homes Lifestyles, we’re all about the lake life, whether fishing in the summer or ice skating in the winter. In honor of one of our favorite winter activities, check out these top ice-skating lakes across the globe.

Two Jack Lake, Canada

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Located in the province of Alberta, this gorgeous lake is surrounded by mountains on all sides. Due to these natural wonders, some have referred to it as “Banff’s best-kept secret.” However, as a heads up, Two Jack Lake is not an official skating area, and it does not have skate rentals or Zambonis. As such, you’ll need to bring your own skates and be more cautious approaching the lake. If you’re looking for a more formalized selection of ice-skating lakes, check out Lake Louise in this same province.

Lipno Lake, Czech Republic

Photo courtesy of Wellness Hotel Frymburk.

When deciding which of the many ice-skating lakes in Europe to visit, this great lake is certainly one to Czech out (pun intended). Located in the market town of Frymburk in the Czech Republic, this lake is situated right by a comfortable resort. But don’t underestimate its cozy vibes for lack of impressiveness. Lipno Lake is actually the longest natural ice-skating track in Europe, stretching six miles in length — enough for multiple skating days without redundancy. As you skate by, you can enjoy amazing views of cute towns and snowy mountains emblematic of central Europe.

Lake Vanern, Sweden

Photo courtesy of silverkris.com.

As a country, Sweden is one of the most popular ice-skating destinations worldwide. And if you’re looking specifically for ice-skating lakes, look no further than Lake Vanern, the largest lake in Sweden and the third-largest in Europe. Its size stretches across three provinces: Vastergotland, Dalsland, and Varmland. Instead of overly manicured scenery, this lake boasts rustic, natural beauty and amazing sunsets. What could be more picturesque as you skate along this lake?

Shichahai, China

When it comes to ice-skating lakes, Shichahai Lake is probably the most fun-filled lake. There’s a reason this Beijing lake is so popular with children. Home to an 18-foot-long ice slide, ice bumper cars, ice boats, and ice chairs, there’s no limit to the excitement on this lake in the winter. If you decide to visit, the shorter days are no worry. Night skating is available, and there are plenty of surrounding lights for safety. 

Keystone Lake, Colorado

Photo courtesy of SkiMag.com.

Located here in the U.S., Keystone Lake, Colorado, is the largest Zamboni polished outdoor rink in North America. And even better, it’s located on a natural lake. Suppose you visit without bringing your own ice-skating equipment, no worries. At this impressive, beautiful lake, you can rent skates for the day. If you’re into hockey, you can also rent pucks and hockey sticks for a game with friends. After a full day of enjoying the ice, you can check out the nearby Adventure Center for a cup of hot chocolate.

Are you ready to visit these ice-skating lakes? Before you do, be sure to check out our guide on How to Tell if a Frozen Lake is Safe.

Top 5 Largest Man-Made Lakes in the U.S.

Posted on Linda Thach

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Photo courtesy of VisitArizona.com

These are the top 5 largest man-made lakes in the United States:

The topic of man-made lakes is not new to Lake Homes Lifestyles. In fact, we’ve covered a couple of different angles on the subject, including The Evolution of Man-Made Lakes in America and The World’s Largest Man-Made Lakes. Continuing with the series, today we’ll uncover 5 of the largest man-made lakes in the United States.

Before we dive in, it’s important to mention that the following lakes are ranked by volume, not by surface area or shoreline. In addition, because lake water levels fluctuate, these rankings are determined when the lakes are at “full pool.” When not at full pool, our number-one and number-two-ranked lakes frequently alternate positions based on fluctuating water levels.

Are you ready to explore these man-made wonders?

Lake Mead, AZ/NV

Photo courtesy of Christian Lendl on Unsplash

As you drive southeast of Las Vegas, you’ll find Lake Mead, located along the border of Nevada and Arizona. With an impressive water capacity of 28.76 million acre-feet at full pool, Lake Mead is the largest man-made lake in the U.S. However, due to increased usage and extended drought conditions, the lake has not reached its full capacity since 1983. Despite its decreasing water levels, Lake Mead continues to attract millions of visitors each year. Here are some interesting facts about Lake Mead:

  • It was created by the Hoover Dam on the Colorado River.
  • It supplies water to over 20 million people and farmland in the surrounding areas.
  • Tunnels were built underneath the lake to help pump water into it.
  • The city of St. Thomas, once submerged during the creation of the lake, can now be seen again due to the decreasing lake water levels.

Lake Powell, UT/AZ

Photo courtesy of Life Utah Elevated

Situated northeast of Lake Mead on the Colorado River lies Lake Powell, the second-largest man-made lake in the U.S. with a maximum water capacity of 26 million acre-feet (MAF). Lake Powell began to fill in 1963, and it took over 16 years to finally reach the 3,700-foot level in 1980. Three years later, in 1983, the reservoir reached its all-time highest water level at 3,708.34 feet when the Colorado River experienced one of the heaviest floods in recorded history. During this time, the lake’s total water volume was 25.7 MAF. Similar to Lake Mead, Lake Powell has seen an annual decline in water level since due to increased water consumption and climate change. Here are other interesting facts about Lake Powell:

  • It was created by the Glen Canyon Dam on the Colorado River.
  • It attracts 3 million visitors each year.
  • Glen Canyon, a natural canyon that is part of the immense canyon system carved by the Colorado River, was submerged by Lake Powell.
  • Its shoreline measures longer than the entire west coast of the U.S. at nearly 2,000 miles long.

Lake Sakakawea, ND

Photo courtesy of US Army Corps of Engineers

Nestled along the Missouri River in North Dakota is Lake Sakakawea. With a volume capacity of 23.8 MAF, this lake is the third-largest man-made reservoir in the U.S. and the country’s largest by surface area. The fluctuation in water levels remains consistent annually, reaching its peak in June before falling to its low point in December. Located approximately 50 miles northwest of the state’s capital, Bismarck, and with Lake Sakakawea State Park occupying 739 acres of its shore, this lake attracts thousands of visitors annually. Here are other interesting facts about Lake Sakakawea:

Lake Oahe, SD/ND

Photo courtesy of South Dakota Missouri River Tourism

Located south of Lake Sakakawea along the Missouri River is Lake Oahe. A surface area of 3.12 million acres makes this lake the largest in the state of South Dakota and the fourth largest in the U.S. by volume (23.5 MAF). There have been controversial issues surrounding this lake, including the forced relocation of Native Americans during its construction and, most recently, the Dakota Access Pipeline project. However, Lake Oahe remains a popular destination, accommodating roughly 1.5 million visitors to its 50 public recreation areas each year. Here are some other interesting facts about Lake Oahe:

  • Created by the Oahe Dam on the Missouri River.
  • It was named for the Oahe Mission, which was established in 1874 by Reverend Thomas L. Riggs.
  • A town called Forest City was submerged when the Oahe Dam was constructed and the Oahe Lake was formed.
  • The lake also flooded over 200,000 acres of land on the Standing Rock Reservation and Cheyenne River Reservation, forcing Native Americans to relocate.

Fort Peck Lake, MT

Photo courtesy of Montana Outdoor

Fort Peck Lake, also known as Lake Fort Peck, is the largest man-made lake in Montana by surface area and is the fifth-largest man-made lake in the United States by volume (18.7 MAF). Impoundment of the lake began in 1937 and the reservoir was finally filled to capacity ten years later, in 1947. Twenty-seven recreation areas are located along its 1,520 miles of shoreline, making it a major tourist destination. Here are some other interesting facts about Fort Peck Lake:

  • It was formed by the Fort Peck Dam on the Missouri River in response to flooding issues in the Missouri River Valley.
  • The construction of the dam and reservoir brought in 10,500 men, leading to 18 boomtowns in the area.
  • The second-largest National Wildlife Refuge, the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge, surrounds 1,719 miles of its shores.
  • The lake area is known for its dinosaur excavation sites and is home to the Fort Peck Interpretive Center.

Despite their fascinating and controversial history, these impressive modern marvels are vital for water storage, hydroelectric power production, flood control, and recreation. Want to explore more lake trivia? Get your trivial pursuit game on with these articles!