1. Lake Tahoe
Over 2 million years ago, a volcano erupted, creating a natural dam that formed Lake Tahoe. Its crystal clear water and rich history bring in hundreds and thousands of visitors annually. It is surrounded by the Sierra Mountains, and the lake itself has an elevation of 6,225 feet. An interesting fact about this pristine lake is that it never completely freezes. While the top layer of parts of the lake freeze, it is 1,645 feet deep, and that makes the chilly temperatures not reach the bottom. Interestingly, Lake Tahoe has clean and pure water that can be distributed directly.
2. Silverwood Lake
Located in San Bernardino County, California, Silverwood Lake is a 3-mile stretch of water with many recreational activities and unique wildlife. For example, surrounding Silverwood Lake is acres of old Black Oak trees and Douglass Firs. It is a popular destination for fishing, especially since the water is so crystal clear. In this reservoir, you can fish for rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, and channel catfish.
3. Convict Lake
Don’t let the strange name of Convict Lake scare you. It is a safe lake that is located in the Sherwin Range of the Sierra Nevada. It got its name in 1871 when a group of convicts escaped and fled to the lake for refuge. All of them, though, were eventually caught. California has multiple breathtaking crystal clear lakes, and this is one of them! Convict Lake is known for its large supply of trout, and fishermen from all over the country visit this lake to look for large fish.
4. Whiskeytown Lake
Whiskeytown Lake is home to a vibrant population of kokanee salmon, smallmouth bass, and brown trout. It is a popular tourist destination because of its clear water and lots of chances to spot wildlife. For example, in the areas surrounding Whiskeytown Lake, visitors may be able to spot black bears, mountain lions, and raccoons. By walking a short 1.7-mile hike to Whiskeytown Falls, you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the rushing water. Overall, the waterfall is 220 feet high with multiple tiers.
5. June Lake
Most of the clear lakes are in California, and another one makes this list. June Lake is a 320-acre lake in Mono County, California. It has turquoise water and lots of recreational activities. When visiting, you have the option to kayak, canoe, boat, fish, swim, and dive. There are even lodges and shops just a few feet away from the shore. The lake is surrounded by old trees and sits at an elevation of 7,654 feet.
6. Lake Crescent
Lake Crescent is a beautiful deep lake within the Olympic National Park. Interestingly, the water is crystal clear because of the lack of nitrogen. Without the presence of nitrogen, there is a lack of algae growth. The lake’s maximum depth is 624 feet.
7. The Enchantment Lakes
To get to the Enchantment Lakes, you will need to hike the Cascade Mountain Range. During the hike and before you reach the lakes, you may run into mountain goats. The water is clear because they are glacial and perfectly reflects the snowy mountains surrounding the lake.
8. Little Cranberry Lake
In the Anacortes Community Forest Lands, there is a trail that leads to Little Cranberry Lake. Despite its name, the water is crystal clear! It is a breathtaking view with rare flora and wildlife. For example, a rare variety of orchids wildly grows near the coast of the lake. This lake is also home to an annual music festival that attracts thousands of visitors. Coyotes are also common in the area.
9. Lake Chelan
Lake Chelan used to be the largest lake in the state of Washington. The lake comprises two large basins and is close to many cities and protected lands. It is also a great lake for fishing. Native fish in Lake Chelan include longnose sucker, bridgelip sucker, and bull trout. The state park that Lake Chelan sits in has a sandy area made for swimming. The maximum depth of Lake Chelan is 1,486 feet.
10. Clear Lake
Clear Lake is in Oregon and is fed by snow from Mount Washington. Most people come to Clear Lake because of how pristine and clean it is. It is also a great diving spot with many things to see. An interesting fact about Clear Lake is that at the bottom of the lake is a 3,000-year-old forest.
11. Crater Lake
Crater Lake was formed over 7,700 years ago. Native Americans witnessed it and lived near the lake. It is also the deepest lake in the United States, at a maximum depth of 1,943 feet. Interestingly, there are no inlets from water sources since Crater Lake receives water from snow and rain. Bacteria and moss also thrive at the bottom of Crater Lake, although there is a lack of nutrients.
12. Waldo Lake
Waldo Lake, like many other lakes in this list, formed because of glaciation and volcanic explosions. It is filled with pure water. While there are limited fish in the lake, you can still look for brook trout and kokanee salmon. Many people travel to Waldo Lake to marvel at its beauty. The water is cold, so swimming is rare until the warmer months of the year. When the temperature is right, you can partake in recreational activities like boating, swimming, and kayaking.
13. Buck Lake
Buck Lake in Oregon is difficult to find as it is located deep within Mount Hood National Forest. The trail to reach the lake is a short one-mile round-trip. The water is crystal clear and perfect for swimming, but only suitable for warm temperatures from May to September. There are many rocky perches to enjoy the sun and views.
14. Ice Lake
Ice Lake is not very well known, but its crystal clear waters are jaw-dropping. It is a hidden treasure and a perfect place for fishing. You can access Ice Lake by hiking the Ice Lake Trail in Oregon. The trail is 15.6 miles long and is best for intermediate to advanced hikers. Within the lake are multiple waterfalls, including the Ice Falls.
15. Wallowa Lake
It is a great place for camping and is known for its amazing beauty. Boating and water sports are especially popular during the warm months. As beautiful as Wallowa Lake is, it is not the most popular crystal lake on America’s West Coast.
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