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Great Lakes
This chain of 5 large freshwater lakes form the largest lake group in the world, covering an area of 95,000 sq miles.
Once vital to fur trading and regional development in the early history of Canada and the United States, the Great Lakes (in modern times) remain a significant transportation route for iron ore, steel, petroleum, grain, American automobiles, and much, much more.
The Great Lakes have a total shoreline near 10,000 miles, over 350 species of fish, and provide drinking water for over 40 million people.
 Lake Superior 82,000 sq km, 31,698 sq miles, is the largest fresh water lake in the world. It is about 350 miles (565 km) long and 160 miles (257 km) at its widest point. The deepest point is 1,332 ft, while the average depth is 500 ft.
Shoreline: 2,730 miles (includes islands)
Lake Huron 59,600 sq km, 23,011 sq miles, is 206 miles (332 km) long and 183 miles (295 km) at its widest point. The deepest point is 750 ft,
(332 km) long and 183 miles (295 km) at its widest point. The deepest point is 750 ft, while the average depth is 195 ft.
Shoreline: 3,830 miles (includes islands)
Lake Michigan 57,800 sq km, 22,316 sq miles, is the largest freshwater lake (totally within) the United States. It is 307 miles (494 km) long and 118 miles (190 km) at its widest point. The deepest point is 925 ft, while the average depth is 279 ft.
Shoreline: 1,640 miles (includes islands)
Lake Erie 25,700 sq km, 9,922 sq miles, is 240 miles (386 km) long, and 38-57 miles (61-92 km) wide. The deepest point is 210 ft, while the average depth is 48 ft.
Shoreline: 871 miles (includes islands)
Lake Ontario 18,960 sq km, 7,320 sq miles, is about 193 miles (311 km) long and 53 miles (85 km) at its widest point. Because of a low elevation above sea level and depths (500 to 800 ft in some places), it doesn't't freeze in winter, unlike the other lakes in the chain. The deepest point is 802 ft, while the average depth is 283 ft.
Shoreline: 871 miles (includes islands)
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St. Lawrence River/Seaway
This body of water permits the passage of deep-water ships between the Atlantic Ocean and the Great Lakes. It includes a series of man-made canals, locks and dams, and is considered one of the most vital shipping routes on the planet. Recommended Links Great Lakes Information Network here
Ice Age How the Great Lakes were formed here
Natural Resources of the Great Lakes (photos) here
St. Lawrence Seaway System web site here
Other Bodies of Water
here
Questions Question about the Great Lakes?
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