The Great Lakes, aptly named for being the largest group of freshwater lakes in the world, are a collection of five interconnected bodies of water located near the Canadian-US border. These natural wonders—Lakes Erie, Superior, Michigan, Ontario, and Huron—form the largest group of freshwater lakes on Earth. But what makes them truly special?
Historically, the Great Lakes region has been inhabited by Native Americans for nearly 10,000 years. European explorers first arrived in the 1600s, drawn by the rich opportunities in the fur trade. As word of the region’s fertile land spread, more settlers followed, eager to establish farms. Today, over 35 million people live within the Great Lakes basin, spanning both Canada and the United States. The Great Lakes serve as vital resources, providing drinking water, irrigation, and essential transportation routes. They also offer abundant recreational activities like fishing, hunting, boating, and wildlife watching. These lakes are a cornerstone of the regional economy on both sides of the border.
If you’re considering adding these majestic destinations to your travel bucket list, here are three compelling reasons to visit the Great Lakes on your next trip:
Formed by retreating glaciers around 10,000 years ago, the Great Lakes are connected to each other and the Atlantic Ocean by the St. Lawrence River. Today, visitors are often struck by the lakes’ vastness and the clarity of their waters. These pristine waters are breathtaking whether viewed in the chilly depths of winter (with temperatures plummeting to -29ºC or -20ºF) or under the warm, golden sun of summer. The lakes are so clean that they provide drinking water for millions of Canadian and Americans.
The Great Lakes region is also home to seven of America’s 423 national parks, offering some of the country’s most stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re seeking a refreshing escape from city life or a peaceful retreat in nature, these parks provide the perfect setting to unwind and recharge.
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, the Great Lakes should be high on your travel list. The area is home to a diverse range of animals, including bald eagles, Canadian lynx, moose, and gray wolves. The lakes themselves are teeming with freshwater fish, making them a paradise for divers and anglers alike.
For diving enthusiasts, the Great Lakes offer a unique underwater experience with numerous well-preserved shipwrecks dating back to the 1800s. While the famous SS Edmund Fitzgerald, which sank in Lake Superior in 1975, is off-limits to divers (with a hefty one million dollar fine for violations), there are plenty of other wrecks to explore. The Metropolis, which sank in Lake Michigan in 1886, is one such site open to exploration.
Budget travelers will find plenty of affordable options when visiting the Great Lakes. While a luxury cruise with included beverages might be pricey, camping or renting a lakeside cabin and cooking for yourself is often much more budget-friendly.
To save even more money, for those living in Canada and the USA consider road tripping to the lakes in lieu of flying. This not only cuts down on travel costs but also gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and avoid car rentals.
Pro tip: If you are exploring in the USA, purchase a state recreation sticker for your car for $34 (USD) to access all state parks, including the lakeshores.
Sometimes, the best travel experiences are found closer to home. By exploring the Great Lakes, you’ll avoid the complexities of international travel, enjoy the convenience of speaking your native language, and experience the wonders that lie just beyond your doorstep. The Great Lakes are among North America’s most extraordinary travel destinations, offering something for every type of traveler. So why not add them to your bucket list today?
Have you been to one of the Great Lakes? If so did you visit on the US or Canadian side and how did you like your adventure?
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