It should come as no surprise that the Great Lakes, comprising Lakes Superior, Huron, Michigan, Erie, and Ontario, are the largest in the nation, encompassing a staggering collective area that supports diverse ecosystems. These five lakes are interconnected and found along the border with Canada, showcasing a unique cross-border relationship.
All five lakes are also tremendously valuable to the ecology of the continent, serving as crucial habitats for a variety of plant, bird, mammal, and fish species. Furthermore, they provide essential water resources for the surrounding animal and human inhabitants, underpinning both local wildlife and communities.
Technically, none of these lakes are entirely within the borders of the United States, but neither are they entirely out of the U.S. This shared natural resource underscores the importance of collaboration with our Canadian neighbors, allowing both nations to enjoy their glory and the immense fresh water they offer.
1. Lake Superior (31,700 sq mi / 82,000 sq km)
Continuing with our trend of apropos naming, Lake Superior is not only the largest of the Great Lakes but also holds the distinction of being the largest freshwater lake by surface area in the world, a truly impressive characteristic that draws visitors from across the globe. Bordered by Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan — as well as Ontario to the north — it represents an astonishing natural landmark.
The massive amount of water that collects in Lake Superior eventually winds its way through the other Great Lakes, demonstrating an intricate hydrological cycle that culminates in its flow out to the Atlantic Ocean.
2. Lake Huron (23,000 sq mi / 60,000 sq km)
The second-largest lake of the Great Lakes, Huron, boasts a breathtaking count of approximately 30,000 islands, which contributes to its superlative title of having the longest shoreline of any of the Great Lakes. This unique topography is complemented by its borders, with Michigan to the south and Ontario to the north, creating a dynamic and picturesque landscape.
3. Lake Michigan (22,300 sq mi / 58,000 sq km)
The third-largest of the Great Lakes, and also the third largest lake in America, is Lake Michigan. Technically, due to being connected by the Straits of Mackinac and having the same surface elevation as Lake Huron, these two can be considered as part of the same expansive water body.
4. Lake Erie (9,910 sq mi / 25,700 sq km)
The fourth-largest Great Lake, Lake Erie, plays a significant role in North American history through the Erie Canal, which connected it to the Hudson River and revolutionized trade routes across the continent. Its geographical positioning — situated with Ontario to the north and the states of Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York to the south — makes it an important water resource.
5. Lake Ontario (7,340 sq mi / 19,000 sq km)
As the fifth of the Great Lakes in terms of surface area, Lake Ontario is uniquely positioned as the furthest east of the Great Lakes and serves as the final water passage before flowing out to the Atlantic Ocean via the Saint Lawrence River. With Canada to the north and New York State to the south, the U.S.-Canada border goes right down the middle of the lake, underscoring its significance in bilateral relations.
Lake Ontario gets its name from the Wyandot language, which translates to “great lake.” Like all the lakes in the Great Lakes system, it was formed in the last ice age, around 14,000 years ago, marking it as a remarkable testament to natural history.
**Interview with Dr. Sarah Mitchell, Great Lakes Ecologist**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Mitchell. The Great Lakes are an incredible natural resource. Can you give us a brief overview of their significance to both the environment and local communities?
**Dr. Mitchell:** Absolutely! The Great Lakes are not only the largest freshwater lakes in the United States, but they also represent one of the most important ecosystems on the continent. They provide critical habitats for countless species, including birds, fish, and mammals while also serving as a vital water resource for nearby communities. They play a major role in the local economy through fishing, tourism, and recreation.
**Editor:** That’s fascinating! I understand that Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake by surface area in the world. What makes it so unique compared to the other Great Lakes?
**Dr. Mitchell:** Lake Superior is remarkable for its size, obviously, but it also has a unique hydrological cycle. The water in Lake Superior eventually flows into the other Great Lakes and ultimately into the Atlantic Ocean, creating a dynamic and interconnected freshwater system. Its vast expanse contributes to its role as a crucial habitat and is a key factor in the larger ecological balance in the region.
**Editor:** Speaking of interconnectedness, how do the Great Lakes exemplify the relationship between the U.S. and Canada?
**Dr. Mitchell:** Great question! The Great Lakes are a shared resource between the United States and Canada, which highlights the need for collaboration in managing and protecting these waters. Decisions made on either side of the border can have significant impacts on the health of the lakes, and it’s vital for both nations to work together on issues like pollution control, conservation efforts, and climate adaptation.
**Editor:** I’ve read that Lake Huron has the longest shoreline of all the Great Lakes. How does that unique feature contribute to its ecological importance?
**Dr. Mitchell:** Yes, Lake Huron is home to approximately 30,000 islands, which not only make its shoreline the longest but also create diverse habitats that support various wildlife species. These islands provide nesting grounds for birds, breeding areas for fish, and woodland ecosystems that are essential to maintaining biodiversity in the region. The intricate topography enriches the ecological landscape and makes conservation efforts even more critical.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Mitchell, for sharing such insightful information about the Great Lakes. It’s clear they are not just water bodies, but a vital part of the ecology and economy of the region.
**Dr. Mitchell:** My pleasure! The importance of the Great Lakes cannot be overstated, and I hope more people will appreciate and advocate for their preservation.
