Top Lakes in USA

You should check out the dog-friendly trails if you have a furry friend. I found a great one near Emerald Bay, but be prepared for some steep climbs. Totally worth it.

I recommend grabbing a day pass for the local beaches; it totally saves money compared to individual entry fees. Plus some spots have awesome picnic areas where you can relax

My advice is to check local grocery stores for snacks instead of the pricey eateries. I stumbled upon a lovely deli that had fresh sandwiches and drinks at half the price!

I think wearing layers is a must! The weather can change in a heartbeat, so pack a light jacket and extra snacks just in case it gets chilly

My advice is to explore the nearby trails early around 8 AM. The morning light is gorgeous for photos, and the trails aren’t crowded yet. Trust me, it feels like you have the place to yourself!

If you're into paddle boarding or kayaking, check out rental prices ahead of time. I found a place offering a discount if you rented for two hours instead of just one, which saved me a few bucks!

If you're into seaplanes, try to catch one taking off or landing near the lake around 2 PM when they're more frequent. It was a cool sight, and you can snap some awesome shots!

If you're planning to rent a kayak, I suggest going early in the morning around 9 AM. The water's pretty calm, and you’ll have a better chance at seeing the sunrise—it’s stunning and way less crowded.

If you can, wear sturdy hiking boots instead of sneakers. I slipped a few times on some of the rocky sections. The right footwear definitely makes the trek more enjoyable.

Plan to spend some time at the lake itself. I initially just planned to hike and rush back, but sitting by the water was the highlight of my visit. Bring a snack and enjoy it there.

I suggest bringing your own snorkel gear if you can. Rentals can be pricey, and having your own feels more comfortable. I wished I had done this on my visit!

One thing I regret is not checking the weather beforehand. It rained during my visit, and it made the experience less enjoyable. Always check forecasts a day before!

My advice is to check out the local events calendar before your visit. I stumbled upon a small art fair that was going on – it added a fun twist to my stroll around the lake.

Bring plenty of water—it’s super easy to underestimate how thirsty you’ll get on the trail. I think packing snacks is a good move too; they really help keep your energy up!

If you can, avoid weekends. My advice is to go on a Tuesday or Wednesday. It was pretty packed when I went on a Saturday, and I wish I had better pictures without people in 'em!

I suggest bringing your own bike or renting one nearby. The trails around the lake are awesome and renting can be pricey if you're not careful. I spent way too much on a bike rental when I could've just brought my own!