Tag: outdoor activities

The Best Stargazing Spots in Our Lake Areas

Posted on Camille Smith

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Photo courtesy of Pexels.

Experience the night sky like never before: free from light pollution. If you’re looking to witness the most spectacular stargazing opportunities, here are the top lake destinations:

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 Visit Idaho.

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 spots in the country for stargazing. 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!

Identifying Common Snake Types

Posted on Camille Smith

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Photo courtesy of fortheland.org

Here’s a list of the most common snakes found in the United States:

While most aspects of living at the lake are enjoyable, dealing with less-than-pleasant wildlife is not. For most people, coming across a snake in your backyard or while hiking through the woods is terrifying. It’s no wonder why—many snakes are venomous, and these reptiles are always portrayed in the media as vile creatures who are better off dead. However, not all snakes are harmful. In distinguishing friends from foes, it’s important to be able to identify these various types of common snakes. Developing an awareness of the most prevalent snake species in the U.S. will help you determine when to run for your life and when to simply walk by.

Garter Snake

Photo courtesy of Karsten Paulick from Pixabay

From the Thamnophis genus, this snake species is spread widely throughout North America, making it one of the country’s most common snakes. Although the common garter snake can be found in any region from Canada to the southern U.S., they prefer humid areas with lots of water, such as grasslands and forests. They can be identified by their vertical stripes, which extend longitudinally from head to tail. Typically, they’re characterized by lighter, yellow-ish pattern stripes with a darker background.

Coral Snake

Photo courtesy of North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission

The coral snake prefers temperate and warm climates in the southeastern U.S. You’ll know a coral snake by its color-blocking pattern of alternating yellow, black, and red stripes. However, a certain famous rhyme comes in handy here: “Red touches yellow, kill a fellow. Red touches black, friend of Jack.” Coral snakes happen to be the former. Because they’re highly venomous, you’ll want to stay far away. It’s also worth noting that there are some exceptions to this rhyme, and it’s important to be aware of them.

Kingsnake

Photo courtesy of Karsten Paulick from Pixabay

The king snake is part of the Lampropeltis genus. From the Greek words “lampro” (shiny) and “peltus” (shield), these snakes are identified by their shiny, smooth scales. There are many subspecies of kingsnakes, such as milk snakes, the California kingsnake, and the Mexican black kingsnake. These creatures are non-venomous constricting snakes, so you don’t need to worry. Like coral snakes, the king snake is recognized by red, yellow, and black bands. However, a king snake’s red bands will be adjacent to black ones, as indicated in the second half of the rhyme (red touches black, friend of Jack).

Watersnake

Photo courtesy of arlingtonva.us

Native to North America, the watersnake can be found all throughout the eastern U.S. As their name suggests, they tend to live around bodies of water such as rivers, creeks, and marshes. Although they are non-venomous, they are often confused with the highly venomous cottonmouth snake. Additionally, these water snakes can be confused with venomous water moccasins which have heavier heads and stockier bodies. They share a brown, grayish shade with patches of lighter coloring– a look that was likely adapted through evolution to living in a water-based environment.

Rattlesnake

By derivative work: Victorrocha (talk · contribs)Crotalus_cerastes_mesquite_springs_CA.JPG: Tigerhawkvok (talk · contribs) – Crotalus_cerastes_mesquite_springs_CA.JPG, CC BY-SA 3.0

Perhaps the most infamous snake species, the rattlesnake belongs to the genus Crotalus which derives from the Greek word for “rattle.” With its thick body, triangular head, and diamond-shaped patterns, it’s one of the most recognizable snakes in North America. These nocturnal species have “heat vision” allowing them to thrive in desert regions with arid climates such as Arizona. Highly venomous, they use their large fangs to capture prey, hissing and rattling before they attack.

For more information about identifying which snakes are harmful, check out this resource.

Lake Olympian: Bring Home the Games & the Gold

Posted on Oscar Gipson
Photo Courtesy of Olympics

As the 2024 Summer Olympics commences in a few days, why watch when you and your loved ones can join in on the excitement? While not everyone can travel to Paris, you can bring the Olympic games to your own lake! With a bit of creativity and organization, you can transform your lake into a hub of thrilling activities. Here’s a guide to hosting your lakefront Olympics, featuring games and activities that guests can enjoy both on and around the water.

Setting The Stage for Olympic Fun

Photo Courtesy of Hoosier Homemade

Start your Lake Olympics with a community kickoff that captures the essence of the games. Gather family, friends, and neighbors for an opening ceremony with music, dance, and even a symbolic lighting of a homemade Olympic torch. This inclusive start sets the stage for a day of fun competition inspired by the grandeur of the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Let’s first design a diverse lineup of events that will keep everyone entertained. From traditional Olympic sports to quirky lake-themed games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some fun ideas to get you started:

On-the-Water Events

Photo Courtesy of International Surfing Association
  1. Paddleboard Relay Races – In the spirit of the upcoming Paris Olympics, divide participants into teams and have them race across the lake on paddleboards. This fun and challenging event tests balance and teamwork, guaranteeing lots of laughter and excitement.
  2. Floating Obstacle Course – Create a floating obstacle course using inflatable platforms, buoys, and floating hoops. Participants navigate the course, jumping, climbing, and swimming their way to the finish line, reminiscent of an Olympic adventure challenge.
  3. Water Polo – Set up a water polo match in a section of the lake. Teams compete to score goals by throwing a ball into the opposing team’s net, emulating the fast-paced and exciting nature of Olympic water polo.
  4. Open Water Swimming Race – Establish a designated swimming course in the lake for an open water race. Swimmers compete over a set distance, showcasing their endurance and speed.
  5. Rowing Regatta – Host a rowing regatta with teams competing in traditional rowing boats. This event captures the essence of Olympic rowing, emphasizing teamwork, strength, and synchronization.

Shoreline Events

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
  1. Water Bucket Relay – Organize a water bucket relay where teams race to fill a larger container using smaller buckets. Participants run to the water, fill their buckets, and then race back to pour the water into their team’s container. The team that fills their container first wins. This event combines speed, teamwork, and a refreshing splash, making it a perfect addition to your Lake Olympics.
  2. Tug-of-War – Get teams together for a classic tug-of-war challenge. This simple yet exhilarating game is a great way to foster team spirit and camaraderie among participants, much like the team sports in Paris.
  3. Volleyball – Set up a net on the sand and host a thrilling beach volleyball tournament. Teams compete in matches, showcasing their skills in serving, spiking, and diving for the ball. With the beautiful lake as a backdrop, participants and spectators alike can enjoy the excitement and energy of this classic sport.
  4. Flag Football – Create a field on the lake for a lively game of flag football. Teams compete to score touchdowns by pulling the flags from their opponents’ belts instead of tackling. This fast-paced, non-contact sport is perfect for the sandy shoreline and encourages teamwork, strategy, and friendly competition.
  5. Water Balloon Dodgeball – Set up a dodgeball game using water balloons. Participants must avoid being hit while trying to eliminate their opponents, adding a refreshing twist to the traditional game.

Hosting the Olympics at your lake is a fantastic way to bring your community together for a day of fun, fitness, and unforgettable experiences. With these engaging activities and a positive, upbeat atmosphere, your Lake Olympics will be a highlight for everyone involved. Let the games begin and let your lake shine as brightly as the lights of Paris!

5 of the Best Waterfalls on Our Lakes

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Tripadvisor

The band TLC says in their famous song “Don’t go chasing waterfalls.” But as lake lovers, we simply can’t help seeking out these natural wonders. One of the best parts about living near nature is discovering breathtaking sights. However, traveling to Niagara Falls in New York is unnecessary to witness incredible falling waters. No matter what region of the country you live in, there’s an impressive waterfall on a lake near you. Check out the best waterfalls near lakes with listings on Lake Homes Realty!

Cumberland Falls, KY

Photo courtesy of Reddit

Located on the Cumberland River, which flows into Lake Cumberland, these falls are one of the top destinations for hikers in the south. It’s no wonder why, as Cumberland Falls is the largest waterfall in the state of Kentucky. On its 125-foot curtain, water tumbles 68 feet into the river. Its impressive size helped it earn the title “Niagara of the South.” But that’s not the only special quality of these falls. The Cumberland Falls are famous for producing lunar rainbows or “moonbows.” In this rare phenomenon, a rainbow is formed by the sun’s light reflecting off the moon’s surface. The moonbow at Cumberland Falls is one of two predictable moonbows in the world.

Tahquamenon Falls, MI

Photo courtesy of TahquamenonCountry.com

Near Lake Superior in Michigan, Tahquamenon Falls is the second most voluminous waterfall in the eastern U.S., behind only Niagara Falls. Every second, 50,000 gallons of water plunge 50 feet into the river. However, despite its size and power, the falls’ most noticeable quality might actually be its color. Since the river drains from cedar swamps, the tannis gives off a brown hue, hence the fall’s nickname, “Root Beer Falls.” As one of the country’s best waterfalls, it certainly deserves a visit. Further, this waterfall isn’t frozen in the winter, so you can enjoy it year-round!

Whitewater Falls, SC

Photo courtesy of Tripadvisor

You don’t want to be caught standing on the edge of Whitewater Falls. It towers more than 400 feet, making it the tallest waterfall east of Mississippi. The incredible view is even better in autumn when changing leaves outline the cascading falls. Located on the Whitewater River which flows into Lake Jocassee, South Carolina, this waterfall is surrounded by plenty of mountains and hiking trails such as the Foothills Trail to explore.

Bushkill Falls, PA

Photo courtesy of LoadedLandscapes.com

Many people vacation in Pennsylvania’s Poconos Mountains for the skiing, hiking, and scenic views. These mountains are also home to one of the country’s best waterfalls, Bushkill Falls. This series of eight total waterfalls is secluded in the forest, accessible by hiking trails and bridges. While you’re there, take a trip to the nearby Delaware River, home of George Washington’s iconic Revolutionary War crossing.

Anna Ruby Falls, GA

Photo courtesy of Tripadvisor

In addition to being the subject of a well-known Alan Jackson song, the Chattahoochee River in Georgia is also home to this impressive waterfall. Wedged in the middle of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Anna Ruby Falls is surrounded by several hiking trails so you can enjoy a full day of nature on your way to the falls. One trail, Lion’s Eye Trail, has signs marked in braille for those with visual impairments. If you’re looking for a lake home near Chattahoochee, check out Lake Lanier and West Point Lake. From there, you can easily make day trips to this gorgeous forest. 

Which of the best waterfalls on our lakes are you most likely to visit?

What is Fly Fishing?

Posted on Oscar Gipson

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Photo Courtesy of Montana Angler

Fly fishing is a timeless angling technique that has captivated enthusiasts for centuries. Unlike traditional methods that rely on weighted lures to cast lines, fly fishing employs lightweight artificial flies made of feathers, fur, and synthetic materials. This unique approach requires anglers to delicately present the fly, mimicking the natural movements of insects on the water’s surface. Fly fishing is not just a sport; it’s an art form that demands patience, skill, and an understanding of aquatic ecosystems.

The Essence of Fly Fishing

Photo Courtesy of LOOP Tackle

At its core, fly fishing is about more than just the catch; it’s about immersing oneself in nature and embracing the serenity of the great outdoors. Whether wading through a pristine river or casting from the banks of a tranquil lake, fly fishing offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the natural world. The rhythmic motion of casting, the soothing sound of water flowing over rocks, and the anticipation of a strike create a sense of tranquility and mindfulness that is unmatched in any other outdoor pursuit.

The Craft of Fly Tying

Photo Courtesy of Old Town Canoe – Johnson Outdoors

Central to the art of fly fishing is the craft of fly tying. Fly tying is the process of creating artificial flies that imitate the appearance and behavior of natural insects and baitfish. Anglers meticulously select materials such as feathers, fur, and synthetic fibers to craft lifelike imitations that entice fish to strike. Tying is not only a practical skill but also a creative pursuit that allows anglers to experiment with different patterns and designs, customizing them to suit specific conditions and imitating the prey species that fish are feeding on.

Beyond its practical application, fly tying serves as a form of artistic expression for many anglers, who take pride in crafting intricate patterns and mastering the techniques of this ancient art. Whether tying classic patterns passed down through generations or inventing new creations inspired by nature, the tying process is a deeply rewarding aspect of the fly-fishing experience.

The Thrill of the Catch

Photo Courtesy of Forbes

While the catch is undoubtedly exciting, the true thrill of fly fishing lies in the process itself. Whether casting dry flies to lure in trout on a summer evening or drifting nymphs through fast-flowing riffles, each scenario presents its own set of challenges and rewards. From reading the water and understanding fish behavior to selecting the right fly and executing the perfect cast, fly fishing offers a constant opportunity for growth and learning. It’s a sport that encourages anglers to push their boundaries, hone their skills, and embrace the joy of the chase.

Fly fishing is not just a hobby; it’s a lifestyle that fosters a deep appreciation for nature and a sense of camaraderie among fellow anglers. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a novice angler, this activity offers endless opportunities for adventure, discovery, and connection with the natural world. So grab your gear, head to the water, and let the magic of fly fishing take you on a journey you’ll never forget.

Best Portable Water Filters for Backpacking

Posted on Mattison McWhorter
Man drinking from water bottle
Courtesy of CloudLine

Portable water filters are essential for backpacking. Here are some of the best in 2023: 

Backpacking has taken off as a long-term activity all over the world. It takes more commitment than hiking, as backpacking involves traveling while carrying your clothes and other things you need during your journey. Usually, those who are backpacking do so very affordably. However, it’s the preparation that takes time and money. 

A reliable portable water filter is one of the most important essentials for backpacking. A portable water filter is a unit used to purify water from untreated sources. This is extremely necessary, as when you’re backpacking or camping, you’ll need an easy way to treat the natural water near you. With harmful organisms living in water, this filter can keep you from getting sick and allow you to continue your backpacking journey.

Best for an Individual: Sawyer Squeeze and Katadyn BeFree

woman pouring purified water into water bottle
Courtesy of Sawyer

For those who travel solo or take a quicker backpacking trip, you will want a filter resembling a water bottle. The Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter is constantly ranked high in this category. The Sawyer holds 32 fluid ounces and is very user-friendly. It comes with two ‘dirty’ pouches you fill with water. Then, after a few seconds, you can pour your clean water into the provided bottle. The Katadyn BeFree is another great competitor. The filtration for Katadyn is all within one bottle, so there is no transferring. It’s very lightweight and collapsible for easy packing—the two range from $40 to $45. 

Best for a Group: Platypus GravityWorks Water Filter System

pieces of the platypus gravityworks filter
Courtesy of Task & Purpose

Multiple sources have ranked the Platypus GravityWorks Filter as the best for a group. A gravity filter uses gravity to push the water down through the filter and can be used for multiple systems. This specific filter is excellent for a larger group, considering it can hold up to four liters of water. Of course, it can be used in smaller groups for fewer trips to the water source. The one downfall is its size. More oversized and bulky, this filter is best if your backpacking trip makes multiple camping stops. The average price is $135.

Best of Chemical Purifier: Katadyn’s Micropur Water Tabs and Aquamira Water Treatment

water tablets for water purification
Courtesy of GearLab

Another filtration option is using tablets or drops to purify the water in your container. One of the best in tablet form is Katadyn’s Micropur Water Tabs, while one of the best for drops is the Aquamira Water Treatment. The best part of these filtration additions is that they can remove more than a bottled water filter. Specifically, the Micropur Water Tabs go a step further and remove viruses on top of bacteria and protozoa. They are effortless to use by just adding them to your water bottle or pot for cooking. The drop water treatment is similar and also kills viruses. With this, you have a two-part system that you drop into one liter of water. These purification methods are much more affordable, ranging from $15 to $20 for multiple uses.

Honorable Mentions

the lifestraw
Courtesy of Insider

Another device that has gone viral is the LifeStraw. The LifeStraw is popular not only for backpackers but also for emergency preparedness. It is, just as the name indicates, a straw. You can stick the straw in a body of water and drink right from the source. The water goes through a filter as it is brought up through the straw. You can get this straw for $20 to $50 depending on quantity.

Photo courtesy of REI

The SteriPen Ultra UV Water Purifier is a system in its own category. The SteriPen uses UV rays to destroy bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. All you do is place the device into your water bottle and stir it around until the pen tells you the process is complete. This process is fast, portable, and takes away the potential aftertaste that can come from using chemical filters. It is rechargeable using a USB but claims to have 100 uses in a full battery life. The price is $130.

A reliable water filter is paramount for those who backpack or camp often. It’s always important to know the source of your water and how it is treated. If you can’t answer these questions, consider one of the options above to ensure you stay safe and healthy. Happy backpacking!

For individual backpackers, two top-rated options are the Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter and the Katadyn BeFree Water Filter. The Sawyer Squeeze offers a user-friendly design with two pouches for water filtration, while the Katadyn BeFree is a lightweight and collapsible filter that operates within a single bottle. Both filters are suitable for solo travelers and are priced between $40 and $45.

The Platypus GravityWorks Water Filter System is highly recommended for group backpacking trips. This gravity-powered filter can hold up to four liters of water and is ideal for larger groups. While it may be bulkier than some individual filters, its capacity and efficiency make it an excellent choice, particularly for trips with multiple camping stops. The average price for this filter is around $135.

If you prefer chemical purification methods, two reliable options are Katadyn’s Micropur Water Tabs and Aquamira Water Treatment. The Micropur Water Tabs are tablets that eliminate not only bacteria and protozoa but also viruses, offering comprehensive purification. Aquamira Water Treatment, available in drop form, is similarly effective against viruses, bacteria, and protozoa. Both options are affordable, ranging from $15 to $20, and can be conveniently added to your water bottle or cooking pot.

Yes, there are a couple of specialized options worth considering. The LifeStraw is a popular device that functions as a straw you can directly place into a water source and drink through. It filters the water as you sip, making it useful for both backpackers and emergency situations. The SteriPen Ultra UV Water Purifier utilizes UV rays to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. It’s rechargeable, quick, and avoids the potential aftertaste associated with chemical filters. The SteriPen is priced at $130 and offers around 100 uses on a full battery charge.

Best Binoculars for 2022

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of bhphotovideo.com

Whether you’re observing wildlife on the lake, identifying constellations in the night sky, or just getting a close-up view of your surroundings, it’s essential to own a solid pair of binoculars. Depending on the activity, different features will be more important. For example, those interested in astronomy will want to pick binoculars with large objective lenses which produce powerful light-gathering abilities. However, for regular everyday use, you’ll want lighter binoculars with decent magnification. No matter your purpose, we’ve got a recommendation for you! Check out our top five best binoculars for Summer 2022.

Best for Day Hikes

Photo courtesy of photospecialist.com

For all those relaxing daytime hikes near your lake house, we recommend the Pentax AD 8 x 25 WP. There is nothing too glamorous about this pair. They’re not designed for serious birding or for examining subjects with precise detail. Rather, their assets are their compactness, waterproof coating, and relative inexpensiveness. They also have a multi-layer coating to ensure maximum light transmission.

Best for Spotting Wildlife

Image courtesy of Amazon

The Swarovski Optik SLC Series is an excellent option for viewing wildlife. At a higher price point, it’s certainly a worthwhile investment. The company that manufactures these binoculars created a signature quality lens called Swarovision, which offers a wider view for better peripheral vision. Another asset of the Swarovski is the sharp color and clear vision — perfect for getting detailed, up-close pictures of the wildlife in your backyard. Built with durable materials, these binoculars are also wear-and-tear resistant, so you can enjoy the views for years to come.

Best for Turbulent Weather

Image courtesy of Amazon

If a little stormy weather doesn’t stop you from looking out at nature, you’ll want to try the Athlon Optics Midas MD. These durable binoculars can sufficiently withstand humidity, dust, and intense weather conditions. Further, its focus dial can adjust reliably across a wide range of depths, allowing for sharp, close-up views. Its advanced coated lenses allow for better light transmission as well. And of course, given its design to withstand less-than-ideal weather circumstances, these binoculars are waterproof.

Best for Stargazing

Image courtesy of newegg

Admiring the night sky is one of the great perks of owning a lake home. Away from the city, you can find much brighter constellations. For getting an even clearer view, the Canon 10X42L IS WP is a perfect choice. Due to the gyro-stabilization feature, they achieve an anti-wobble effect. According to Space.com’s review, this feature makes you “feel like they’re being held on an invisible tripod.” The downside to these binoculars is their bulkier weight, which is true for most binoculars designed for nighttime use.

Best for Sitting in Nature

Image courtesy of Amazon

For everyday use, the Olympus 10×42 Pro is a great choice for simply observing the natural world around you. Compared to other binoculars, these are relatively compact, lightweight, and versatile. With top-notch high-performance optics, they have amazing close-up abilities. Specifically, you can look at subjects as close as 1.5m away. Further, they’re waterproofed and nitrogen filled which prevents fogging. Although the power isn’t quite as strong as more heavy-duty binoculars, they are perfect for everyday use. 

From wildlife to constellations, there’s no shortage of astounding aspects of nature. With these top binoculars for summer 2022, you can get a close-up view of all of it.

Best Lake Vacation Destinations for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo by Joel & Jasmin Førestbird on Unsplash

Previously on our blog, we covered the best lake vacation destinations for relaxation. You can lay back at these lakeside retreats and enjoy the scenery. But for some people, the easygoing atmosphere may feel too slow. Maybe you’re the first out the door on a hiking trip, always ready to explore the wilderness. You’d rather spend all day exploring a new mountain than being inside reading a book. Check out these top five lakes for outdoor enthusiasts! If this describes you, we’ve got you covered.

Moosehead Lake, Maine

Photo courtesy of Destination Moosehead Lake

Philosopher and writer Henry David Thoreau referred to Moosehead Lake as “uninterrupted.” Its 120-mile stretch of water (the second largest in New England following Lake Champlain) winds through gorgeous mountainous scenery, reasonably untouched by man-made features. For the best hiking, Mount Kineo offers plenty of different trails for all experience levels. If you’re an advanced hiker, you won’t want to miss the Pinnacle Pursuit – a six-mountain hiking challenge with incredible views that are worth the arduous effort. And, of course, as its name suggests, you’re bound to catch glimpses of wildlife such as moose, falcons, loons, and otters.

Apostle Islands, Wisconsin

Photo courtesy of National Park Service

Along the south shore of Lake Superior, on Wisconsin’s northernmost point, sits the Apostle Islands. These gorgeous sandstone cliffs and sea caves are only accessible by boat. Further, camping is the only accommodation while staying on these islands, making them a perfect destination for serious outdoor enthusiasts. The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is home to more lighthouses than any other National Park. If you enjoy bird watching, bring binoculars while on the island – you’ll likely find plenty of new birds to identify. The archipelago gets more than 240 species of winged visitors every year. You’ll need to plan your visit in advance, but it’ll be well worth the trip.

Lake Chelan, Washington

Photo courtesy of Visit Chelan County

On average, Lake Chelan sees 300 annual days of sunshine. At this iconic lake destination in the Pacific Northwest, it’s rare that you’ll ever take a rain check on hiking plans. Besides the sunny weather, Lake Chelan is close to Mount Rainier National Park and North Cascades National Park. Immersed in these stunning alpine landscapes, you’ll have an abundance of hiking trails at your fingertips. These national parks offer over 250 miles of trails for mountain bikers, hikers, motorcyclists, and horseback riders. There are plenty of opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding on the water. In short, if you can’t get enough of nature, Lake Chelan is the place to be.

Lake George, New York

Photo courtesy of Adirondack Almanack

Lake George is nicknamed “Queen of the American Lakes” for a good reason. Although the town of Lake George is small and quaint, its natural surroundings are expansive. Located near the Adirondack mountains, it’s known for its proximity to stunning foliage and mountainous views. If you own or rent a lake house along its 32-mile shoreline, you’ll have access to countless outdoor activities – whitewater rafting, motorcycling, horseback riding, hiking – you name it! And if you need a day off, head to Million Dollar Beach along Lake George’s shore.

Lake Lure, North Carolina

Photo courtesy of Southern Trippers

Tucked away in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lake Lure offers both gorgeous lake views and 1,000 acres of wilderness. The scenery is so outstanding that Lake Lure has been a movie destination for shooting Dirty Dancing, The Last of the Mohicans, and other films. To get a good look at everything, climb up Lake Lure’s Chimney Rock for expansive views. Overall, the abundance of hiking trails and nature activities make this southern lake a perfect spot for outdoor lovers. 

Lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails! We hope you enjoy your next lake vacation at one of these top destinations for outdoor enthusiasts.

Lake Insects to Watch Out For

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo by Clément Falize on Unsplash

Summertime at the lake means a lot of things — swimming, boating, hiking, and other favorite outdoor activities. But one of the least enjoyable aspects of lake life is coexisting with outdoor creatures. We’re not talking about elk, ducks, and other wildlife you’re trying to spot — we’re talking about pesky lake insects. While it’s useful to remember bug spray and other strategies to keep insects away, it’s also helpful to identify these pesky bugs. After all, it’s hard to know which bugs to stay away from when you aren’t sure what they look like! Plus, with more skin exposure during the summer months, you may be even more vulnerable to these (often bloodthirsty) bugs. Today, we’ll be going over various types of annoying insects at the lake — and what to do if you see them!

Mosquitos

Photo courtesy of Mosquito Authority

Raise your hand if you’ve ever had a mosquito bite on the lake. That’s all of us, right? According to the CDC, mosquitos love the water because that’s where their larvae and pupae (young, developing mosquitoes) live. Not to be confused with gnats (which are generally harmless), mosquitoes are not lake insects to be messed with. Because mosquitoes thrive on blood, when they land on you, they leave painful, itchy bites. They can also spread diseases, such as the organisms that can pass heartworm disease to dogs. To keep the mosquitoes at bay, be sure to apply bug spray correctly each time you go outside, especially during the summer.

Horse Flies

Photo courtesy of uwm.edu

Like mosquitoes, horse flies are also constantly in search of blood. These fast-flying lake insects are commonly found around bodies of water such as streams, ponds, and lakes. There, they most often prey on animals, spreading animal diseases such as anthrax, trypanosomiasis, and tularemia. Although horse flies get their name from their livestock-preying reputation (especially horses, since they’re attracted to movement), they can bite humans as well. This is especially true during the summer when they require more blood during mating season. To steer clear of horse flies, be sure to keep garbage containers or other areas of animal waste sealed tightly.

Ants

Photo by Prabir Kashyap on Unsplash

Although ants are not only a lake house problem, dealing with these insects is almost synonymous with summer lake life. From the front porch to the backyard to the boat dock, ants are everywhere. Some are harmless and some can be dangerous, but because there are over 12,000 known species of ants, it’s hard to generalize. In the absence of clarity, a good rule of thumb is to let them be. For example, running around barefoot outdoors is never a good idea due to the risk of fire ants. And when picnicking by the lake, be sure to keep all your containers tightly sealed to avoid some ant visitors.

Cockroaches

Photo courtesy of Dorling Kindersley/Dorling Kindersley/Getty Images via the spruce

Although they’re definitely grotesque for those of us who are squeamish, cockroaches are typically harmless lake insects. However, in some people, they can cause allergic reactions. When in doubt, it’s best to stay away. At your lake home, the best protection against cockroaches is proper hygiene. Keep your house relatively tidy, clean up food messes, and store leftovers in the fridge. This is especially important to remember if your lake house is a second home. The last thing you want upon returning to your vacation house is a group of unwelcome guests.

Bees and Wasps

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What’s that buzzing sound? If you’re spending time outdoors at the lake, chances are, it’s a honey bee or bumble bee. In particular, these bees like to hang out by any flowering plants near the water. As most of us know, when threatened, bees can cause a painful sting. The same is true for wasps. However, these winged insects tend to be more aggressive than bees. Plus, if you’re allergic to their venom, the response can be excruciating. To get rid of wasps (and similar lake insects like hornets and yellow jackets), use a DIY or store-bought spray or hire a professional. 

When it comes to lake insects when in doubt, stay away! And of course, before running out to the lake, bring your bug spray and remember to clean up your picnic.