When it comes to waterfront destinations, often travelers' minds go directly to oceanfront destinations like these road trip ideas or to island getaways like the Virgin Islands (a great couples destination!) and Tahiti (there are so many islands to choose from!). Travelers may have the misconception that an ocean getaway is the only opportunity to see crystal clear waters, see diverse aquatic life, or lounge by soothing waves.
However, located right on the west coast of the United States, there are some waterside wonders definitely worth an out-of-the-box visit! The three deepest lakes in the US--Crater Lake, Lake Tahoe, and Lake Chelan--have all the charm of a marine vacation without the hassle of crowded beaches, salt water, and sharks. So, what makes these lakes so special?
Crater Lake, Oregon-The Bluest In The World
The deepest lake in the US, Crater Lake, located in south-central Oregon, also ranks among the world's top 10 deepest lakes. Said to be one of the bluest lakes in the world, Crater Lake is actually a collapsed volcano caldera; therefore, there are no waterways leading into or out of the lake. Instead, the lake is naturally filled and refilled with rainwater and snowfall over the course of several centuries. The result is a massive crater filled with some of the purest lake water found on earth.
At 1,949 feet deep, this isn't just a casual splash pool. In fact, there is really one sanctioned way to and from the designated swimming access area via the Cleetwood Cove Trail. Never fear, though--if visitors prefer other alternatives to open-water swimming, there are a variety of other activities for lower-key travelers, including a ferry ride to the famous Wizard's Island at the center of the lake and hiking up Garfield Peak. With a variety of activities and a diverse selection of accommodations near the lake and the national park, visitors won't get bored visiting this deep-water lake.
Lake Tahoe, California- A Hiking Paradise
Lake Tahoe is pretty deep--1,645 feet deep, to be exact! Its crystal clear waters make this lake a prime water activities holiday; visitors can snorkel and scuba dive, go boating and go swimming in pure waters. In recent years, the Maritime Heritage Underwater Trail, which opened in 2018, has become a prime spot to explore the lake's depths. Scuba divers swim the trail to discover artifacts sunken in Lake Tahoe's depths, even sunken ships!
Above water, there are a variety of activities that draw visitors in. Lake Tahoe, while often associated with family vacations and activities revolving around nature, has also become a luxury destination for many seeking top-notch accommodations and gourmet meal experiences. These luxury options do not detract from its classic charm, however, and it continues to be known for its stunning hikes (even for beginners!) and fantastic skiing in the wintertime. With its diverse appeal, Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination made even more unique by its 2nd-place ranking on the list of deepest lakes in the United States.
Lake Chelan, Washington- A Lake Surrounded By Vineyards and Mountains
At 1,486 feet, Lake Chelan is the US's third-deepest lake and possibly its most underrated. In talking about incredibly diverse activities, Lake Chelan tops the list for its multitude of offerings that appeal to truly, a wide range of travelers, from the adventurous hiker to the family of four looking for a relaxing yet entertaining time.
Travelers most often grace the shores of this deep lake during the summer. Summer is the prime time to visit Lake Chelan to go biking around the glacier-fed lake or build sand castles along the lake's shoreline. Especially when with family during the summer, it's also worth visiting the Slidewaters Water Park, a unique lakeside water park surrounded by stunning mountain views. But, while there's a lot of fun to be had during the warmer months, in the wintertime, Lake Chelan transforms into an underrated winter wonderland, complete with several dozen ice sculptures and world-class skiing. Truly, Lake Chelan is an all-seasons gem.
The most unique feature of this natural lakeside oasis?--the multitude of vineyards surrounding the lake. In 2009, the area was designated as an American Viticulture Area, with over 30 wineries in the area. The wineries boast a "distinctive flavor" of wines and offer year-round wine tastings. Sipping local wine isn't something that one may immediately think of when visiting one of America's deepest lakes, but it sure is a welcome offering that makes this destination truly special.
America's three deepest lakes are truly special places to visit, worth the West Coast sojourn to enjoy nature, marine activities, and perhaps even some luxury offerings and wine!