Most Picturesque Under-the-Radar Lakes in the US

by Noreen Kompanik
Last updated: 9:00 AM ET, Sat July 19, 2025

Ocean views often get the glory. But lakes offer some of the most picturesque natural landscapes in the US.

From nature preserves to mist-shrouded mountains, lush forests and turquoise lagoons, these waters beckon visitors with their stunning scenery. The regions also offer hiking, camping, swimming, kayaking, boating and fishing. But one thing they all have in common – they are gorgeous, and many are under-the-radar.

Though we would normally count California and Nevada’s Lake Tahoe and Oregon’s Crater Lake in the mix, we’re sharing some incredibly stunning lakes across the country you may not be as familiar with.

Big Bear Lake, California

This scenic reservoir nestled in Southern California’s San Bernardino Mountains about two hours from Los Angeles sits at around 6,743 feet in elevation. The lake stretches roughly seven miles long with a maximum depth of 72 feet.

The water is a deep azure blue and crystal clear thanks to low levels of nitrogen and phosphorus that keep algae growth in check. With 300 days of sunshine per year, summer temps averaging 77 degrees Fahrenheit, winter snowfall and vibrant autumn scenery, this lake destination is a jewel. Outdoor water sports include boating, paddleboarding, fishing, kayaking, jet skiing and parasailing.

Clear Lake, Oregon

Oregon’s Crater Lake is well-known, but the Pacific Northwest region offers another incredible but less-known alpine gem called Clear Lake.

The lake is renowned for its remarkably translucent, crystalline waters and a thriving submerged underwater forest providing scuba divers the opportunity to explore one of the most exceptional freshwater diving spots in the U.S. with visibility up to 100 feet in some places. Other activities here include snorkeling, kayaking, canoes, fishing and hiking. Since no motorized boats are allowed on the lake, the experience is truly peaceful and serene.

Hidden Lake, Alaska

Situated within the Kanai National Wildlife Refuge just south of Anchorage, Hidden Lake is a 1500-acre serene body of water formed by glacial and tectonic activity in the ancient channel of the Kanai River. The secluded lake is surrounded by dense spruce forests filled with moose, bear and bald eagles.

The lake is renowned for its trout, Arctic char and salmon fishing and ideal for canoeing or kayaking as there’s not the motorboat traffic you’ll see on Alaska’s bigger lakes. Even in the winter months you’ll find ice anglers here with their lines when the lake freezes over.

Lake Dora, Florida

Spanning almost 4.400 acres, Lake Dora in Lake County Florida is part of the esteemed Harris Chain Lakes in large part to the historic lakeside town of Mount Dora on its eastern shore. Since the late 1800s, Lake Dora has attracted fishermen, hunters and tourists.

The awe-inspiring lake offers a peaceful escape, perfect for boating, lakeside picnics and sunset views. Guided eco-tours under 2,000-year-old trees are quite an impressive experience.

Lake Jocassee, South Carolina

A stunning sapphire, crystal-clear reservoir in the Appalachian foothills of northwestern South Carolina near the North Carolina border, Lake Jocassee is known for its deep, cool waters, dramatic mountain scenery and hidden waterfalls, three that cascade directly into the lake.

The 9,000-acre reservoir is part of the Jocassee Gorges region, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve which National Geographic called a “destination of a lifetime” for its biodiversity. Popular activities include boating and kayaking to explore hidden coves and waterfalls, scuba diving (as visibility can exceed 50 feet), fishing and hiking.

Lake Powell, Arizona

As one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the U.S., this striking body of water straddles the border between northern Arizona and southern Utah. The lake is named after John Wesley Powell, a Civil War veteran and explorer who led the first scientific expedition down the Colorado River in 1869.

Lake Powell is known for its 2,000 miles of shoreline, red rock canyons, dramatic cliffs and stunning range of colors due to its varied water temperature and depth. Boating, houseboating, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, swimming and hiking are popular here.

Lake Taneycomo/Table Rock Lake, Branson, Missouri

Branson boasts three lakes in the region, two incredibly picturesque. Lake Taneycomo runs though the town of Branson with a downtown landing area with a strolling path to watch the boats go by. The lake also offers water cruise tours and fishing from several docks.

Table Rock Lake is one of the cleanest, scenic and popular lakes in Missouri. With over 800 miles of shoreline, it's impossible to explore the entire lake on one visit. With the Showboat Branson Belle dinner cruise tour, visitors can enjoy the scenery, a musical show, and a lovely dinner in the evening.

Lake Washington/Lake Sammamish, Bellevue Washington

Bellevue, Washington is tucked between two stunning lakes. Lake Washington, the largest in King County, is ideal for boating, kayaking, and fishing along its sparkling waters, with scenic parks and waterfront trails perfect for biking or leisurely strolls. From the water, cruisers can take in the impressive Bellevue skyline and admire the luxurious lakeside estates known as “Millionaires’ Row.”

Lake Sammamish provides a quieter, more relaxed setting with calm waters popular for paddleboarding and sandy shores perfect for swimming, picnicking, and gathering with friends.

Maroon Lake, Colorado

Situated at over 9,500 feet, Maroon Lake in Colorado’s Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is one of the most iconic and photographed scenes in the Rockies. The lake, formed during the last ice age, is located about nine miles west of Aspen but from May to early November, access is by shuttle or car with a reservation to limit access to the area.

Maroon Lake is a must-see blend of breathtaking vistas and rich alpine ecosystems. Fall foliage peaks in late September, and the lake is known for its wildlife sightings and colorful wildflower meadows. Hiking and fly-fishing are popular outdoor activities here, along with snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter.

Mono Lake, California

Definitely one of the strangest and unique lakes in the U.S., Mono Lake, located near the Sierra Nevada mountains and close to the entrance of Yosemite National Park is fascinating.

First of all, it's a saline soda lake, two-to-three times saltier than the ocean because it has no natural outlet. It is also one of the oldest lakes in North America. But what makes this body of water so beguiling is its tufa towers, bizarre limestone formations that resemble an alien-like landscape. Popular activities include birdwatching, photography, kayaking and nature walks.

Moosehead Lake, Maine

Spanning almost 75,000 acres, Moosehead Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the U.S. and the largest in Maine. A favorite with travelers, the lake has the benefit of being much warmer than Maine’s chilly seashore and is ideal for swimming, offering stunning views of Mount Kineo and proximity to the charming town of Greenville.

In his book, “The Maine Woods,” Henry David Thoreau even mentioned the region’s vast beauty in as he was being guided by Native Americans. Activities here include hiking, wildlife viewing, moose tours, fishing, kayaking and other outdoor adventures.

Navajo Lake, Utah

Located atop Cedar Mountain just east of Cedar City, Utah, this pristine lake was originally known to the Paiute people as “Pa-Cu-Ay,” meaning Cloud Lake. The skies are clear and the air is crisp at this 9,000-foot elevation. Formed by an ancient lava flow, the picturesque lake is home to hiking and mountain bike trails winding through lava fields alongside the lake. A nearby hiking trail (Cascade Falls) leads to a stunning waterfall.

Navajo Lake is located an hour drive from Bryce Canyon and an hour drive to Zion National Park, making it a worthwhile addition to a national parks visit.

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