Minnesota is the land of more than 10,000 lakes!

Minnesota is known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes”(actually more than 11,000.) With so many lakes around the state, it’s no wonder they’re also an essential part of Minnesota's identity.

These lakes vary by location, size, and activities. Here are some of the most popular lakes in Minnesota that you can explore:

Lake Mille Lacs: Located in central Minnesota, Mille Lacs is one of the largest lakes in the state, spanning more than 132,000 acres. It's a perfect spot to cast a fishing line for walleye or muskie or take a boat ride around the lake. In the winter, ice fishing is popular here, and you'll find ice houses scattered across the frozen lake.

Lake Minnetonka: This lake is located just west of Minneapolis and is famous for its crystal clear water and numerous bays. It is perfect for boating, paddleboarding, and sailing, and it's also a popular spot for beach going.

Lake Pepin: This natural lake formed by the Mississippi River is located in southeastern Minnesota. It offers an ideal setting for wind surfing, kayaking, and kiteboarding. You can also explore the charming river towns like Red Wing, Wabasha that are dotted around the lake.

Lake Superior: The largest of the Great Lakes, located on Minnesota’s Northshore, this lake offers stunning cliff-side views and rocky beaches. It's perfect for swimming and beach activities in the summer, and hiking and sight-seeing during the fall or winter months. It’s also a renowned spot for catching some of the biggest lake trout in the world.

Lake Itasca: This lake is where the Mississippi River begins. Located in northern Minnesota in the Itasca State Park, the lake offers Over 32,000 acres of clear, cool water to swim, paddle, and experience. Visitors walk across the rocks where the river flows, to see the official headwaters marker.

There’s never a shortage of activities around the numerous lakes of Minnesota. In summers, take advantage of the warm weather for water sports or having a picnic by the lakeside. In the winter season, you can enjoy ice fishing, skating or snowmobiling over the frozen lakes. Whether you are a seasoned angler, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway from the urban sprawl, Minnesota's lakes have something to offer everyone, every season.