7 Crystal-Clear Lakes in Upstate New York that You Have to See
The Empire State is home to some of the country's most naturally beautiful, pristine, and breathtaking lakes. Among these, a few stand out for their crystal-clear waters and recreational activities that entice nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you want to soak up serene views or head out on the water for fishing and boating, these lakes have something for everyone. From Green Lake’s turquoise waters to the glacial waters of Skaneateles Lake, Let’s explore seven of Upstate New York’s clearest lakes that are charming and unique in equal measure.
Lake George
Nicknamed the Queen of the American Lakes, Lake George is the largest and one of the most well-known lakes in the Adirondacks. The lake is 200 feet deep, 2.5 miles wide, and 32 miles long. It is one of the country's cleanest and clearest lakes. Lake George formed over 10,000 years ago because of melting glaciers and is fed by mountain streams. Boating is the best way to appreciate a 360 view of the Adirondack mountains and explore the crystal-clear waters of the lake and the beauty of the surrounding forest. Other fun activities include parasailing, hiking, swimming, or sunbathing at Million Dollar Beach on the lake's southern shore.
Skaneateles Lake
Bench overlooking Skaneateles Lake, New York.
One of the Finger Lakes, Skaneateles Lake, is often called “the Roof Garden of the Lakes” because of its high altitude compared to the other Finger Lakes. The name Skaneateles means long lake. The lake is 16 miles long, 0.75 miles wide, and 315 feet deep. Its water is the purest among all the Finger Lakes, so much so that its water is used with minimal filtration by the city of Syracuse and surrounding municipalities. Fishing, boating, and swimming are popular activities at the lake, as is a sightseeing cruise with lunch or dinner provided.
Green Lake
Green Lakes State Park in Syracuse, New York.
It is one of the few meromictic lakes in the United States, meaning its different layers of water (warmer shallower waters and colder deeper waters) do not mix. It is the largest of two lakes in Green Lakes State Park and has stunning turquoise waters. The lake is 195 feet deep. Visitors to the region can rent a boat and fish for rainbow trout, brook trout, and pumpkinseed sunfish. Green Lake is a glacial lake with rare freshwater “reefs” made of living rock-like structures. Aside from exploring the lake, hiking, biking, and camping are fun ways to enjoy the beauty of the park.
Lake Placid
Located in Northern New York in the Adirondack Mountains lies Lake Placid. It is on the northern shore of the Village of Lake Placid. The lake is 2,170 acres with an average depth of 50 feet and has three islands - Hawk, Moose, and Buck. Lake Placid is fed by streams and springs from the Adirondacks and is a source of drinking water for the village. The lake is accessible from a single boat launch located on Mirror Lake Drive, and from there, visitors and locals can enjoy boating, paddling, and fishing. Over 200 campsites are dotted around the lake, which offers stunning views of the Whiteface Mountain.
Canadice Lake
The smallest of the Finger Lakes, Canadice, is three miles long and 0.3 miles wide. It covers 649 acres and has a depth of 95 feet. The lake is 30 miles from Rochester and has been used as a source of drinking water for the city since 1873. To preserve the water quality for use, swimming, and camping are prohibited. Furthermore, only boats 17 feet in length are permitted on the lake. Fishing is allowed but there are size limits; fish such as trout and salmon can be taken year-round. The Hemlock-Canadice State Forest, which surrounds the lake, offers 7,000 acres for hiking, cycling, and bird-watching.
Otsego Lake
Formed over 10,000 years ago as a result of melting glaciers, Otsego Lake is also called Glimmerglass. It is in Otsego County and has a surface area of 4,046 acres, a 9-mile length, and a depth of 168 feet. Towards the lake’s southern shore lies the Village of Cooperstown, and to the northeast lies Glimmerglass State Park. Otsego Lake is near the foothills of the Catskill Mountains and is one of Cooperstown’s clearest and cleanest lakes. There are campsites and hiking trails around the lake near Glimmerglass State Park, along with a lifeguarded swimming area.
Hemlock Lake
Another of the Finger Lakes, Hemlock, is located south of Rochester and is also surrounded by the Hemlock-Canadice State Forest (like Canadice Lake). Hemlock Lake is seven miles long, 0.5 miles wide, covers 1,800 acres, and is 91 feet deep. Like Canadice, Hemlock Lake serves as a water source for Rochester City, and boating is restricted. Boats that are no longer than 16 feet are allowed but must be less than 10 horsepower; swimming is prohibited. Fishing is allowed, with the most prominent species being landlocked salmon, rainbow trout, smelt, rock bass, yellow perch, and largemouth bass.
Discover Upstate New York's Clearest Lakes
From boating on Lake George to hiking the trails around Blue Mountain Lake and camping at Otsego Lake, each of the lakes mentioned above promises the peace of a relaxing vacation with memorable views. Each offers unique mountain views, azure waters, prized fishing opportunities, and a host of activities for individuals and families alike. If you’re seeking a calm and beautiful lakeside retreat, consider one of these seven crystal-clear lakes in Upstate New York.
