The Most Beautiful Lake Towns For Summer

Missing out on lake town holidays is equivalent to missing out on some of the best boating, sailing and paddling opportunities.
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Summertime is usually associated with ocean-front beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and laying on lounges by a pool with colorful cocktails. For many, this is an ideal way to spend a vacation which, however, overshadows an unconventional way to have fun and relax- in a lake town.

Beautiful Lake Towns for Summer
Seneca, South Carolina(01 of05)
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The man-made Lake Keowee reservoir covers an almost 30 square miles, and boasts 350 miles of shoreline. With much of the coast undeveloped, everything there feels as natural as can be. Add the fact that the lake is just by the Blue Ridge Mountains, and you’ve got some of the most scenic views in the region. Camp in the South Cove County Park, which also has boat launching, tennis courts, and pavilions. Go fishing or see why paddle sports are so fun; and visit the beer station at the end of the day for an incredibly diverse brew selection.Photo Credit: ShutterstockClick Here to See Most Beautiful Lake Towns for Summer
Rangeley, Maine(02 of05)
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Just about 99 percent of the area in and around Rangeley is forest and water. Maine’s western mountains and the six Rangeley Lakes are nearby. The town is historically known as a fisherman’s paradise. Summer in the old-fashioned New England place is an adventure, as opportunities for boating, kayaking, canoeing, and seeing places you can’t access otherwise, are endless.Photo Credit: Thinkstock
Grand Marais, Minnesota(03 of05)
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Grand Marais, located on a tranquil stretch between Lake Superior and the Sawtooth Mountains, is the country’s coolest small towns, according to Budget Travel Magazine. This quaint, friendly harbor village, with about 1,300 people has several other prestigious awards. It made the Top 100 Adventure Towns by National Geographic Adventure Magazine; and the Grand Marais Art Colony was chosen as one of the top 10 artist colonies in America by Coastal Living Magazine. Biking, kayaking, fishing and whale watching are popular activities. You may even see the Northern Lights from the Lighthouse.Photo Credit: ThinkstockClick Here to See The Most Beautiful Lake Towns for Summer
Elmore, Vermont(04 of05)
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The town of Lake Elmore calls itself “The Beauty Spot of Vermont.” Located in the southeastern part of Lamoille County, Elmore is mostly forested and agricultural land. Lake Elmore, which is 219 acres, and Elmore Mountain, which rises almost from the lake’s shore, are prominent features. Hike along the Mountain Brook Nature Trail and see unique wildflowers and 18th-century homesteads. Relax by kayaking the glassy lake or go camping.Photo Credit: ElmoreVT
Bigfork, Montana(05 of05)
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From fishing charters and farmer’s markets, to horseback riding and countless water sports, Bigfork boasts big adventures among some of the most stunning landscapes in Montana. The town’s slogan reads “where Flathead Lake beings,” and, in addition to superb lakeside recreation, Bigfork is known for hosting fun summertime concert series and art festivals. Click Here to See Most Beautiful Lake Towns for SummerPhoto Credit: Flickr/Always Shooting CC by 2.0

Swimming in cool, clear blue waters can be more pleasant than dipping in the warm sea swamped with seaweed. Missing out on lake town holidays is equivalent to missing out on some of the best boating, sailing and paddling opportunities.

Lake towns are also less crowded and much cheaper than ocean retreats. Consider spending a week or two in a quintessential American lake town without breaking the bank and having even more fun because you can participate in adventurous activities such as hiking, zip lining, diving, and kayaking.

When it comes to outdoor recreation and even beachside relaxation, America's lake towns have what you need. These charming locales - from Maine and Vermont to California and Alaska - boast some of the most stunningly scenic landscapes in the entire country.

- Hristina Byrnes The Active Times

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Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is known for being one of the best ski resorts in the world. Snuggled between the Rockies, this charming small mountain town is a favorite summer destinations as well. Try skeet shooting or go on a thrilling river tour. With summits higher than 14,000 feet, there is always something to see and explore. Festivals showing off art, wine and music are scheduled year-round, many in the summer. Visit Maroon Bells, one of the most photographed peaks in the country, take your family summer camping in the wilderness, or go ballooning and paragliding.Photo Credit: PixabayClick Here to See Incredible Mountain Towns for Summer
Lake Placid, New York
Lake Placid, which is set in the Adirondacks, has a rich winter sports history but it also offers many summer activities. The Olympic Center is open, offering bobsled and luge rides with a professional. Hiking is the most popular activity when it gets warm, with trails for every skill level. Many nearby waterways are perfect for paddling—whether that be by canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Paddle around Mirror Lake, enjoy a concert at Mid’s Parks and relax in one of the city’s many spas and wellness centers.Photo Credit: Shuterstock
Stowe, Vermont
If you are looking for a low key getaway with some outdoor access, the charming mountain town of Stowe, situated in a valley between peaks of the Green Mountains, is your destination. Hike to a beautiful waterfall with swimming holes or wade in local rivers and fly fish. If you’re new to the sport, there are clinics and outfitters available. Drive the back roads to Mount Mansfield for some gorgeous views and go on a canoe trip to Boyden Valley Winery. Long hiking and biking trails will also keep you active.Photo Credit: ThinkstockClick Here to See Incredible Mountain Towns for Summer
Whitefish, Montana
The mild weather during the summer months in Whitefish makes this small town, nearby the Glacier National Park, a perfect destination to escape the heat. Explore the Aerial Adventure Park and see if you can handle its five courses of varying difficulties. You will be crossing suspended bridges and cable walk ways, climbing on nets and ladders, swinging on trapezes and tube traverses and zip lining. Take a walk through the canopy of an old-growth Montana forest or an art class in town.Photo Credit: Thinkstock
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise. With its proximity to National parks like Grand Teton and Yellowstone, access to the National Elk Refuge and it’s placement among practically endless public lands, there’s no shortage of trails, waters and wildlife to discover. Paddle the Snake River, which has sections calm enough for kids and others exciting enough for adrenaline junkies, or head out on a wildlife safari. Horseback riding, whitewater rafting and blue-ribbon fly-fishing are other favorite activities. When you’re ready for a break, check out some of the art galleries in town, watch a live outdoor concert in Teton Village or experience the Wild West nightlife at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar. Click Here to See Incredible Mountain Towns for SummerPhoto Credit: Thinkstock

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