Many lakes in the United States never lose their charm, even during winter when the waves are absent. After all, the beauty of these bodies of water is ever-present, and when the cold months set in, they exude a unique essence that will entice winter travelers. Frozen, the lakes became one big playground, especially for ice skaters.The U.S. is home to many stunning lakes spearheaded by Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario, also known as the Great Lakes. Whatever the season and the reason, these natural wonders are favorite recreational spots, offering adrenaline-packed or mellow moments. The cold will never bother tourists, anyway, so they might as well visit when the lakes are icy.Related: Guide To Visiting Abraham Lake And Its Unusual Frozen Bubbles

10 Lake Superior

Lake Superior, which straddles the border of Canada and the U.S., is the world’s largest freshwater lake by surface area. It’s one massive natural beauty serving recreational lovers in winter, spring, summer, or fall. The lake begins freezing in late December until early January, peaking from late February to early March, though it does not completely freeze over. This Wisconsin and Michigan destination is always ready to welcome tourists who want to hike, snowmobile, snowshoe, conquer the frozen lake, or just have a mellow sightseeing. Superior beauty, indeed.

Related: Stuck Inland? 10 Of The Best Great Lakes Beaches Worth Visiting

9 Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan has never completely frozen over, according to a meteorologist, but still an adept winter host for those who want to have a chill vacation – literally and figuratively. Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan are lucky to share one of these Great Lakes, making the states attractive options for recreation lovers. Visiting during the cold months, tourists can enjoy the views of lake steam, ice sheets, ice balls, pancake ice, ice volcanoes, ice shards, and ice heaves. What a winter wonderland, indeed. ABC Chicago said it best that when winter comes, “the lake transforms into a majestic frozen world.”

8 Lake Morey

It’s more fun in Lake Morey, home to the longest skating trail in the U.S. Located in Fairlee, Vermont, this skating paradise will wow lovers of the cold because the area has over four miles of trail. Sure, skating on indoor rinks is fun, but nothing can match the exhilaration brought by skating on natural ice. Gliding and sliding in this Vermont charmer is a perfect winter activity, so those visiting the Green Mountain State in mid-January should not miss the breeze of Lake Morey.

7 Mount Douglas

When talking about winter adventures, Alaska comes to mind. Dubbed the Last Frontier of the U.S., it is home to undeveloped tracts of land where outdoor adventures are at their purest form. Mount Douglas, for instance, is a perfect spot to enjoy winter views because its crater lake looks stunning, especially when frozen. Climbing the mountain is taxing as it stands 2,140 meters above sea level, but once hikers reach the peak, they’ll be relaxed by the scenic view of the blue waters. Alaska never disappoints.

6 Ellery Lake

California is not known for its winter scenery, but it does not want to be missed when the cold months announce its arrival. Mono County, for instance, has the Upper Lee Vining Canyon, where an alpine show awaits those who will successfully conquer its trails. One must-see attraction in the area is Ellery Lake, where the clear waters and the waterfalls work together to deliver an awesome winter wonderland. Since it’s near Yosemite National Park, visitors are assured of nothing but majestic views. The mirror-like surface of the lake is perfect for a selfie, maybe.

5 Lake McDonald

If there’s a destination where winter is always fun, it’s Glacier National Park. As the name suggests, it is home to glacial views and snow activities that will excite outdoorsmen. Alpine adventures abound in the park, like Lake McDonald, Glacier’s largest lake. When frozen, the sight is awe-inspiring, like a terrarium waiting to be discovered by curious visitors. Hikers should keep their eyes peeled for critters when reaching the lake, and anglers should prepare their gear as the area is perfect for ice fishing. Lake McDonald aims to be an outdoorsman’s second office.

4 Keystone Lake

American magazine Travel + Leisure recommends visiting Keystone Lake in Colorado because of its “picturesque” beauty, especially during the holiday season when it is frozen. It is most famous for its natural ice skating rink and Lakeside Village, which work together to deliver magical moments. Families with kids will enjoy gliding and sliding on the outdoor rink, one of the largest on the continent. Competitive souls, meanwhile, can try hockey or curling. The area is five acres, enough to satisfy those needing to fill their adrenaline cups.

3 Canyon Ferry Lake

The 28-mile-long Canyon Ferry Lake, Montana’s third largest, is another outdoor skating destination during winter. A reservoir of the Missouri River, the place seems like it is reserved for those who want to experience authentic moments with the chilling breeze. After all, nothing beats natural beauty. Recreational activities abound in the destination year-round, but those visiting during the cold months are in for a treat as they can enjoy the calming air while breaking a sweat. From skating and skiing to snowshoeing, the scenic Canyon Ferry Lake is a perfect playground.

2 Lake Ontario

One of the greats, Lake Ontario, is shared by Canada and the U.S., with New York being its home in the latter. Its name means “beautiful lake” or “sparkling water,” something easy to understand when tourists are in the presence of this calming body of water. As with Superior, Ontario does not entirely freeze over, but a portion of it can be covered in ice from late December to early March. During the said months, tourists can check out ice plates and how the pier and lakeside turn into an icy masterpiece. Ontario is simply awesome.

1 Lake Monona

Those exploring Madison, Wisconsin, during winter will have a fun time checking out the majestic Lake Monona. There are many things to do in this waterway by the state capital. For the adventurous, there’s ice boating, fat-biking, or skating, while those who want to have mellow moments can try ice fishing or strolling on a frozen lake, taking in the wonderful view of the winterscape. There’s always a win in Wisconsin, especially during winter when Lake Monona turns into an icy playground.