Visitors flock to Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park for all kinds of reasons. Obviously, the breathtaking mountain landscapes are a major draw, but they’re not the park’s only worthwhile attraction. While mountaineers arrive hoping to chase the Rocky Mountain high, other guests come to the park for a scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road, excellent stargazing opportunities, or a leisurely hike. One such hike can be found near Lily Lake, on the park’s eastern edge.
Lily Lake is an absolute gem and offers a beautiful and accessible hiking trail at a relatively low elevation. Enos Mills, the “father of Rocky Mountain National Park,” even lived in a cabin near the lake and would often stroll around it. Here are six reasons why you’ll love Lily Lake, too.
It’s hard to sleep in when you’re staying in a hotel overlooking one of Japan’s most beautiful lakes. Especially in summer, when the sun rises around 4:30 a.m. and brings shifting colors, jumping fish, and diving osprey.
Lake Shikaribetsu is the highest-altitude lake in Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido. Tucked up in the Daisetsuzan mountain range, it was formed by a volcanic eruption damming the Yanbetsu River approximately 30,000 years ago.
In addition to being a prime recreational area within Daisetsuzan National Park, the lake also attracts fans of “Spirited Away.” Its lake-bottom railroad tracks resemble those from the wildly popular 2001 anime movie. There was never actually a railroad going into the lake, though. Instead, the tracks help bring sightseeing boats ashore before the winter freeze.
If you haven’t fallen in love with Lake Michigan yet, now is the time to do it. For outdoorsy folks, endless adventures wait on the shores of this Great Lake. Want to explore lakeside hiking trails? Or go surfing at the beach? Or visit incredible national and state parks? You can do all of that and more on the banks of this beloved landmark.
Make the most of a trip to the region with this guide on places to go and things to do there. Whether you like kayaking, hiking, or beachcombing, you’re sure to find fun times and gorgeous scenery on a trip to Lake Michigan.
Photo by Gary Millar
Places to go
Witness some of the best lakeside views at nearby parks. Indiana Dunes State Park offers excellent beach hikes, and Harrington Beach State Park is a great place to go canoeing. Consider spending a day at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, too. Just make sure to prepare before climbing the dunes.
Lake Michigan also has plenty to offer tourists seeking more unique experiences. In Shelby, Michigan, tourists can go from the Otto Nature Preserve to the lavender labyrinth at Cherry Point Farm. About 55 miles further north, the SS City of Milwaukee provides summer boat tours and a ghost ship tour for Halloween.
Photo by Kevin Dooley
Things to do
Obviously, Lake Michigan is perfect for water sports. In the summer, visitors can go swimming or surfing at local beaches. More adventurous guests can take to the water in a kayak or on a speedboat. There are also a variety of lake cruises available to take groups on a guided tour of the region.
The fun doesn’t stop on the shore, though. If you’re a rockhound or seashell enthusiast, try beachcombing at Michigan Beach Park. Eagle-eyed guests might be able to spot Petoskey stones. You can go on some fantastic hikes along Lake Michigan, too. Tackle the Empire Bluff Trail at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, or wander along Cricket Hill Loop in Chicago.
Looking for a super secluded holiday with your sweetheart, besties, or favorite family members? Off the Map Travel offers a dream package for those who want to get really far away from civilization. Spend two nights at a floating safari camp at Sweden’s Lake Degerselet, just south of the Arctic Circle, then transfer by canoe for a final night at the land-based Aurora Safari Camp.
Despite the remote location, you won’t be roughing it at the floating safari camp. You’ll have two glamping tents, a double room, a toilet, and a shower. The kitchen has a two-burner stove, refrigerator, and a dining area. Act fast, or book for next year. The floating camp operates June through September and can sleep up to six people. Here are some of the adventures you can go on while you’re there.
Over 750 miles of shoreline make Lake Mead perfect for a family lake vacation. Sunny beaches and sparkling waters let guests spend hours exploring, boating, fishing, and swimming. This gorgeous destination straddles the boundary between Arizona and Nevada and attracts visitors from all over the country. See what draws people to this region and plan your own trip with Outdoors Wire’s simple guide to Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
In addition to Lake Mead itself, Lake Mead National Recreation Area includes Lake Mohave and the Hoover Dam. Lake Mead (which is actually a reservoir) stretches 110 miles long and reaches depths of up to 500 feet. In contrast, Lake Mohave is only 76 miles long. A vacation to the region can include days at both lakes and the Hoover Dam, but a seamless trip will take some planning. Here are some tips to keep in mind, plus information on the best local boating and camping destinations.
Photo by Ken Lund
Visitors can enter the region through nine main access points. If you want to start your trip at the Lake Mead Visitor Center, choose the Lakeshore Entrance Station.
Temple Bar Marina. / Photo by Lake Mead National Recreation Area – Andrew Cattoir
Lake Mead’s boating culture ensures you won’t have to look too far for a fuel pump. Some even offer scenic views, like at Temple Bar Marina.
Photo by Kristina D.C. Hoeppner
The Mojave Desert surrounds Lake Mead. If you need a break from the water during your visit, try exploring the nearby desert rock formations.
Photo by Kyle Magnuson
Eagle-eyed hikers will want to look out for petroglyphs throughout the area. These rock carvings provide insight into the region’s unique history.
Expect views like this a Temple Bar Campground. / Photo by Lake Mead National Recreation Area – Andrew Cattoir
Planning to go camping at Lake Mead? Try booking a spot at the Temple Bar Campground for tranquil views nearby.
Photo by Lake Mead National Recreation Area – Andrew Cattoir
Joshua Tree National Park isn’t the only place where you can see Joshua trees. The surrounding desert landscapes at Lake Mead also feature these funky trees.
Photo by Ken Lund
Constructed in the 1930s, the Hoover Dam may be one of America’s most well-known dams. While it’s an interesting place to visit in Lake Mead, guests should also consider exploring Davis Dam about an hour and a half south of the Hoover Dam.
Photo by Andrew Cattoir
Places like Serene Cottonwood Cove, pictured above, show off the magnificent views you can find at Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
On hot days, nothing feels better than swimming in cool, clear waters. This summer, break up your pool and beach days by visiting a swimming lake.
In the United States, there are many lovely lakes worth visiting. Some famous destinations, like Lake Tahoe, have been enjoyed by tourists since the 1800s. For families seeking quality vacation spots, lakes offer a stellar combination of stunning scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities. Whether you like to fish, boat, or jet ski, there are always fun adventures to look forward to at the lake. Of course, swimming may be the most popular way to enjoy these waters. If you’re planning a summer trip, dive into this list of the country’s eight best swimming lakes.
In the United States, three of the four states with the most lakes are in the Midwest. As such, the lake vacation is a longstanding tradition for many Midwestern families.
What makes a perfect lake resort? You should be able to walk out your door in flip-flops and a swimsuit, then stroll right down to a swimming beach. There should be activities that interest everyone in the family, from little kids to sulky teens to stressed parents to lake-loving seniors. Plus, comfortable rooms and tasty things to eat. Find it all at these six Midwest lake resorts. It’s time to plan a family trip.
Once in a while, a kayaker might have the thrill of being all alone on a remote, pristine lake. And while this scenario has its obvious charms, there’s a lot to be said for the ease and fun of urban paddling. Whether you live in a city on a river or are just visiting one, it’s often possible to rent a kayak or go on a guided trip, even if you only have a few hours. Exploring by water gives you a unique understanding of the city and a chance to see spectacular skyline views. Experience the magic for yourself at these 16 urban kayakingdestinations in the United States.
What brings 15 million visitors to Lake Tahoe each year? For lifelong fans of this beloved destination, the answer is simple. The alpine lake’s crystal clear waters, stunning scenery, and endless activities make it an excellent vacation spot. Whether you like to lounge in the sun on sandy shores or challenge yourself on a ski slope, the Lake Tahoe area has options to suit you.
If you’re planning a trip to Lake Tahoe, don’t get overwhelmed by the various sightseeing options available. Instead, research the location to find places that call to you. Swimmers and kayakers can prioritize aquatic sports opportunities, while history buffs can spend time exploring the nearby Vikingsholm mansion. Find more travel inspiration below in the gallery of Lake Tahoe’s best sightseeing spots.
