Discover the 5 Largest Lakes in Ontario

Nestled within the breathtaking landscapes of Ontario, Canada, lie some of the most awe-inspiring bodies of water in North America. From vast expanses that stretch as far as the eye can see, to hidden gems tucked away in pristine wilderness, the lakes of Ontario offer a mesmerizing tapestry of natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

In this article, we embark on a journey to explore the 10 largest lakes in Ontario, each with its own unique charm and allure. Get ready to immerse yourself in the wonders of these magnificent bodies of water, from the mighty Great Lakes to remote hidden treasures. Grab your sense of adventure, and let’s dive into the splendor of Ontario’s five largest lakes!

1. Lake Superior

Location of Lake Superior

Lake Superior, the largest of the Great Lakes of North America, is located on the border between the United States and Canada. It is bordered by the states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, and the Canadian province of Ontario. Lake Superior connects to Lake Huron by the St. Mary’s River.

Size and Depth of Lake Superior

Lake Superior has a surface area of approximately 31,700 square miles (82,100 square kilometers), which makes it the largest freshwater lake by surface area in the world. It stretches about 350 miles (563 kilometers) from east to west and 160 miles (257 kilometers) from north to south.

The maximum depth of Lake Superior is approximately 1,332 feet (406 meters), making it the deepest of the Great Lakes. It has a volume of water estimated to be around 2,900 cubic kilometers.

Recreational Activities on Lake Superior

Swimming: Lake Superior’s pristine waters attract swimmers looking for a refreshing and invigorating experience. However, swimmers should be cautious of the lake’s cold temperatures and strong currents.

Sailing and Boating: Lake Superior offers excellent sailing and boating opportunities. Due to its vast expanse and consistent winds, it is a favorite destination for sailing. Boaters can explore the many bays, islands, and scenic shorelines.

Fishing: Lake Superior has amazing fishing opportunities. For example, anglers can find lake trout, salmon, walleye, northern pike, and whitefish. Due to the deep waters, the lake provides a challenging and rewarding fishing experience.

Kayaking and Canoeing: Lake Superior’s rugged shoreline and numerous islands make it an ideal destination for kayaking and canoeing. Paddlers can explore secluded coves and sea caves.

Hiking and Camping: The surrounding areas of Lake Superior offer numerous hiking trails and camping opportunities. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Northwoods, hike along the Superior Hiking Trail, or camp in one of the many state or national parks.

Wildlife Viewing: Lake Superior is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Visitors can spot bald eagles, osprey, moose, black bears, and other wildlife while exploring the lake’s shoreline and surrounding forests.

Lighthouse Tours: Lake Superior is home to historic lighthouses that played a crucial role in guiding ships along the lake’s treacherous shores. Visitors can take lighthouse tours and learn about the maritime history of the region.

Rock and Agate Collecting: Lake Superior features beautiful agates and unique rock formations. Rock and agate collectors can search along the shoreline for these treasures, creating a fun and rewarding activity.

Winter Sports: During winter, Lake Superior offers opportunities for ice fishing, ice climbing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. The frozen lake and surrounding areas transform into a winter wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts.

2. Lake Huron

Location of Lake Huron

Lake Huron, one of the five Great Lakes of North America, is between the Canadian province of Ontario and the U.S. state of Michigan. It is part of the international border between the two countries and connects to Lake Superior by the St. Mary’s River.

Size and Depth of Lake Huron

Lake Huron has a surface area of approximately 23,000 square miles (59,600 square kilometers), making it the second largest of the Great Lakes by surface area. It stretches about 206 miles (331 kilometers) from its northernmost point to its southernmost point.

The maximum depth of Lake Huron is approximately 750 feet (229 meters), making it the third deepest of the Great Lakes. It has a volume of water estimated to be around 3,540 cubic kilometers.

Recreational Activities on Lake Huron

Swimming: The clean and clear waters of Lake Huron make it an ideal destination for swimming. Visitors can enjoy the refreshing water along the lake’s coastline.

Boating: Lake Huron provides ample opportunities for boating enthusiasts. Whether it’s sailing, motorboating, or kayaking, the lake’s vast expanse offers a perfect setting for leisurely cruises or adventurous expeditions.

Fishing: Lake Huron is a haven for fishing enthusiasts, containing lake trout, salmon, walleye, and bass.

Water Sports: With its constant winds and waves, Lake Huron is a popular destination for water sports such as windsurfing, kiteboarding, and jet skiing. The lake’s size and conditions provide an exciting playground for thrill-seekers.

Beachcombing: Because the sandy beaches along Lake Huron’s shoreline are ripe with shells, this area is perfect for beachcombing. Visitors can search for treasures washed ashore, collect unique seashells, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach.

Hiking and Nature Trails: The surrounding area of Lake Huron offers numerous hiking and nature trails. Exploring these trails allows visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region, with opportunities to spot wildlife, enjoy scenic views, and discover hidden gems.

Camping and Picnicking: Because many parks and campgrounds line the shores of Lake Huron, there are several opportunities for camping and picnicking. Visitors can set up tents, have barbecues, and enjoy the peacefulness of the outdoors.

Lighthouse Visits: Lake Huron features picturesque lighthouses that serve as reminders of the region’s maritime history. Visitors can visit these historic landmarks, learn about their significance, and enjoy breathtaking views from their vantage points.

Winter Activities: When winter arrives, Lake Huron transforms into a playground for winter sports. Activities such as ice fishing, snowmobiling, and ice skating draw outdoor enthusiasts to the frozen lake and its surrounding areas.

3. Lake Erie

Location of Lake Erie

Lake Erie is one of the five Great Lakes of North America. It is located on the border between the United States and Canada, with its southern shorelines touching the states of Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, and Michigan, and its northern shoreline bordering the Canadian province of Ontario. Lake Erie is the fourth largest of the Great Lakes.

Size and Depth of Lake Erie

Lake Erie spans an area of approximately 9,910 square miles (25,600 square kilometers). It measures about 241 miles (388 kilometers) from east to west and 57 miles (92 kilometers) from north to south at its widest points. The average depth of Lake Erie is around 62 feet (19 meters), with its deepest point reaching approximately 210 feet (64 meters).

Recreational Activities on Lake Erie

Swimming: Lake Erie’s sandy beaches and warm summer temperatures make it a popular destination for swimming. Visitors can enjoy the refreshing waters and relax on the beaches.

Boating: Lake Erie offers excellent boating opportunities. Whether you have a sailboat, powerboat, or kayak, you can explore the lake’s waters and enjoy the scenic views. Boaters can also visit the nearby islands, such as South Bass Island and Kelley’s Island.

Fishing: Lake Erie has exceptional fishing opportunities. In fact, it is home to a variety of species, including walleye, yellow perch, smallmouth bass, and steelhead trout. Anglers enjoy both shore fishing and fishing from boats.

Water Sports: Lake Erie is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Activities such as water skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, and jet skiing are popular on the lake’s calm waters.

Bird Watching: Because Lake Erie is an important stopover for migratory birds, this area is a paradise for birdwatchers. Visitors can spot waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds, especially during the spring and fall migrations.

Island Hopping: Lake Erie is home to several beautiful islands, such as the popular Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island and the serene Kelley’s Island. Visitors can explore these islands, which offer unique attractions, restaurants, and natural beauty.

Beachcombing: Because the lake’s shoreline has plenty of sandy beaches, visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, collect seashells, and search for beach glass.

Wineries and Vineyards: The region has several wineries and vineyards. Wine enthusiasts can visit the many vineyards along the lake and participate in wine tastings and tours.

Camping: Numerous campgrounds and parks sit along the shores, offering camping and RVing. Camping allows visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and enjoy hiking and biking.

Lighthouse Tours: Lake Erie is home to several historic lighthouses. Lighthouse tours provide a glimpse into the maritime history of the region.

4. Lake Ontario

Location of Lake Ontario:

Lake Ontario is located in North America, straddling the border between the United States and Canada. It is one of the five Great Lakes and is situated on the easternmost part of the Great Lakes system. The lake borders the Canadian province of Ontario to the north and the U.S. state of New York to the south. It is connected to Lake Erie through the Niagara River and Niagara Falls, and it drains into the St. Lawrence River.

Size and Depth of Lake Ontario:

Lake Ontario has an area of approximately 7,340 square miles (18,960 square kilometers), making it the smallest of the Great Lakes in terms of surface area. However, it is still a significant body of water. The average depth of Lake Ontario is around 283 feet (86 meters), and its maximum depth reaches approximately 802 feet (244 meters). The lake has a shoreline that spans about 712 miles (1,146 kilometers).

Recreational Activities on Lake Ontario:

Boating: Lake Ontario is a haven for boating enthusiasts. From sailboats to powerboats, visitors can explore the lake’s vast waters and enjoy the scenic views. There are marinas and boat launches available for easy access.

Fishing: Lake Ontario is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including salmon, trout, bass, and walleye. Anglers can enjoy both shore fishing and offshore fishing experiences.

Swimming and Beaches: Lake Ontario has numerous beaches along its shoreline, providing opportunities for swimming and sunbathing. Some popular beaches include Sandbanks Provincial Park in Ontario and Durand Eastman Beach in New York.

Water Sports: The lake’s size and favorable wind conditions make it ideal for water sports such as windsurfing, kiteboarding, and paddleboarding. Visitors can rent equipment or take lessons from local outfitters.

Wildlife Viewing: Because Lake Ontario and its surrounding areas are home to a diverse range of wildlife, birdwatchers and animal-lovers will enjoy this area. Birdwatchers can spot various bird species, including waterfowl and migratory birds. Additionally, visitors may encounter turtles, beavers, and other wildlife along the shoreline.

Cruises and Tours: Various companies offer cruises and boat tours on Lake Ontario. These tours provide an opportunity to explore the lake’s beauty, learn about its history, and enjoy a relaxing experience on the water.

Waterfront Parks and Trails: Many parks and trails line the shoreline of Lake Ontario, offering opportunities for walking, cycling, picnicking, and enjoying the scenery. Examples include Toronto’s waterfront trail and Ontario Beach Park in Rochester, New York.

5. Lake Nipigon

Location of Lake Nipigon:

Lake Nipigon is located in Northwestern Ontario, Canada. It lies approximately 50 miles (80 kilometers) northeast of the city of Thunder Bay. The lake is situated entirely within the boundaries of Ontario and is part of the Nipigon River watershed.

Size and Depth of Lake Nipigon:

Lake Nipigon is the largest lake entirely within the province of Ontario. It covers an area of approximately 1,872 square miles (4,848 square kilometers). The lake has a maximum length of about 68 miles (110 kilometers) and a maximum width of approximately 43 miles (70 kilometers). Lake Nipigon is known for its incredible depth. In fact, it reaches a maximum depth of around 535 feet (163 meters).

Recreational Activities on Lake Nipigon:

Fishing: Lake Nipigon is renowned for its exceptional fishing opportunities. The lake is home to various fish species, including lake trout, walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and whitefish. Anglers can enjoy both ice fishing during the winter months and open-water fishing throughout the year.

Canoeing and Kayaking: With its pristine waters and scenic surroundings, Lake Nipigon is a fantastic destination for canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts. Paddlers can explore the lake’s numerous islands, secluded bays, and rugged shoreline, immersing themselves in the beauty of the area.

Camping: Lake Nipigon offers several camping options for outdoor enthusiasts. There are campgrounds located near the lake, providing opportunities for tent camping, RV camping, and backcountry camping. Camping allows visitors to fully experience the tranquility and natural wonders of the area.

Hiking and Exploring: The region surrounding Lake Nipigon is rich in natural beauty and offers numerous hiking trails and nature reserves. For example, visitors can enjoy scenic hikes through forests and along the shoreline. Additionally, lookout points offer breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscapes.

Wildlife Viewing: Lake Nipigon and its surrounding areas are home to diverse wildlife. Visitors may spot animals such as moose, black bears, bald eagles, and a variety of bird species. Wildlife enthusiasts can observe and appreciate the natural habitats and ecosystems of the region.

Photography and Nature Observation: Lake Nipigon provides countless opportunities for photography and nature observation. Photographers and nature enthusiasts will find endless inspiration, whether capturing stunning sunsets over the water or documenting the unique flora and fauna.

In Conclusion

Ontario is home to some of the most impressive and breathtaking lakes in Canada. The five largest lakes in Ontario, namely Lake Superior, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, and Lake Nipigon, offer a wealth of natural beauty, recreational activities, and ecological diversity. From the vast expanse of Lake Superior with its rugged coastline to the picturesque charm of Lake Huron and the cultural significance of Lake Ontario, each lake has its own unique allure.

These lakes not only provide opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water-based activities but also serve as havens for wildlife and ecosystems. They are a source of inspiration for artists, a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, and a sanctuary for nature lovers. Whether it’s exploring the pristine shorelines, embarking on a canoeing adventure, or simply basking in the tranquility of the surroundings, the lakes of Ontario offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Elena Elisseeva/Shutterstock.com