These 15 Stunning Images Highlight the Splendor of the Great Lakes and Will Captivate You With the Marvels of Nature
The photographs of Lakes Huron, Erie, Superior, Michigan, and Ontario are derived from entries submitted to the Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest
The sun sets behind the Duluth hills in Minnesota, casting a warm light on the glimmering waters of Lake Superior.
Brittany Borgan, Minnesota, 2025
Not every body of water can be labeled a great lake. The five Sweetwater Seas form the largest surface freshwater system globally. Similar to oceans, their saline equivalents, these lakes are recognized for their substantial capacity, profound basins, and powerful storm potential, yet they differ from oceans due to their relatively minor tides and dependence on terrestrial precipitation instead of marine currents. Situated in the Midwest region of the United States and extending into portions of Canada, the Great Lakes and the surrounding area support a population of 30 million people. Experience it yourself.
An unobstructed viewpoint on the banks of Lake Superior serves as an ideal spot to admire an aurora performance. Cameron Wilcox, Michigan, 2024
A solitary duck stands calmly on a concrete ledge, looking out over Lake Ontario towards the horizon. Oleksii Derevianko, Canada, 2024
The Lutsen Lodge was formerly a notable site along the shores of Lake Superior. Theodore Sadler, Minnesota, 2023
Scattered boulders disrupt the tranquil surface of Lake Michigan. Valleri Ames, Michigan, 2025
Sunlight pierces through the clouds above Lake Superior, creating a fiery radiance in the sky. Evan Cooley, Michigan, 2021
A lightning bolt reaches into the clouds, striking the waters of Lake Erie. Steven Easton, Canada, 2010
A variety of tree species flourish in the sandy, moist soil at Lake Michigan’s Foster Avenue Beach. Kevin Dephillips, Illinois, 2025
Red-necked grebes breed on the beaches of Lake Ontario, with one laying a light blue egg. Yan Zhang, Canada, 2024
Georgian Bay in Ontario, Canada, is a segment of Lake Huron, half of which flows through Michigan. Waters near the shore freeze each winter, and when the ice eventually breaks and melts, it creates floes. Zhenhuan Zhou, Canada, 2022
The aurora borealis displays a stunning performance above Lake Erie. Dawn Wilson, Ohio, 2024
Resembling water lilies, shards of ice scatter across Lake Ontario’s icy surface. Sylvia Johnson, Canada, 2025
The evening sky over Lake Huron presents hues of gold, copper, and bronze as sunlight filters through clouds before descending. Kathy Canada, Michigan, 2024
The colorful northern lights dance in the sky above Lake Michigan as a silhouetted figure absorbs the sight. Cameron Wilcox, Michigan, 2024
A large cloud drifts above Lake Erie. L.E. “Skip” Bradley, Ohio, 2008
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