Welcome to Lake Huron
Lake Huron, a sparkling jewel among the Great Lakes, stands as a testament to natural beauty and serenity. It’s the second-largest of the Great Lakes by surface area and shares its waters between the United States and Canada. This magnificent lake is famed for its clear blue waters and miles of varied shoreline stretching from the rugged, forested landscapes of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to Ontario’s serene, sandy beaches.
When visiting Lake Huron, you can look forward to activities catering to every interest. Its waters are perfect for sailing, fishing, and kayaking, while the surrounding areas boast picturesque hiking trails and tranquil spots for bird-watching and stargazing. The lake is also dotted with charming coastal towns, each with its unique character, from the historic lighthouses in Port Huron to the vibrant cultural festivals in Alpena.
Renting a vacation home here means immersing yourself in a world where adventure meets relaxation. Whether exploring the hidden coves by boat, indulging in the local culinary delights, or simply unwinding on a quiet beach with a stunning sunset view, Lake Huron promises an unforgettable getaway experience.
Top 3 Facts About Lake Huron
01
Great Size
Lake Huron is the second-largest Great Lake with a surface area of 23,000 square miles, making it the fifth-largest freshwater lake in the world. It’s slightly smaller than the state of West Virginia.
02
A Long History
Lake Huron was the first of the Great Lakes European explorers encountered. They even listed Georgian Bay as a separate sixth lake because Manitoulin Island and the Bruce Peninsula nearly separate it.
03
Abundant Shipwrecks
There have been more than 1,000 shipwrecks on the lake, with many still at the bottom. Some are preserved as artifacts; Fathom Five National Marine Park is home to 22 of these wrecks.
Must-See Attractions
Bruce Peninsula National Park
Natural Attraction
For a nature-filled escape, venture to Bruce Peninsula National Park. Here, you can explore limestone cliffs, ancient forests, and rare Alvars—all teeming with wildlife. Whether hiking along the dramatic cliff edges, marveling at ancient cedar trees, or spotting a multitude of orchids and ferns, this park offers an unforgettable experience in one of southern Ontario’s largest natural habitats.
Point Clark Lighthouse
Speciality Museums
Discover the historical charm of Point Clark Lighthouse, an iconic beacon standing proudly on the shores of Lake Huron. Built between 1855 and 1859, this limestone tower and its accompanying lightkeeper’s house museum offer a glimpse into the past, highlighting the crucial role lighthouses played in Great Lakes navigation. Visitors can enjoy tours, marvel at the 12-sided lantern, and browse various souvenirs at the on-site gift shop.
Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary
Natural Attraction
Dive into the adventurous world of Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, where history and nature converge beneath the waves of Lake Huron. This sanctuary is a haven for underwater explorers, offering views of shipwrecks through glass-bottom boat tours, kayaking, or snorkeling. Suitable for divers of all skill levels and appealing to non-divers, the sanctuary provides access to a hidden underwater world and plays a vital role in protecting these historical treasures.
Annual Events and Festivals
June 8 – 9, 2024
Riverside Arts Festival
Take part in a vibrant celebration of creativity at the Riverside Arts Festival in Downtown Bay City, along the beautiful Saginaw Riverfront. Set for June 8th and 9th, this festival, now in its 50th year, brings together artists from across the state and beyond, showcasing everything from handmade pottery to intricate jewelry, textiles, and more. Along with the exceptional art, you’ll be treated to live entertainment and delicious food options from local trucks.
July 4, 2024
Bay City Fireworks Festival
If you don’t have plans for the 4th, Bay City might be your answer. Visitors from across the United States flock here to attend the Bay City Fireworks Festival, which features a spectacular fireworks display. Beyond the fireworks, the festival includes the Skerbeck Family Carnival, various vendors selling unique goods, and local and regional entertainment at Wenonah Park.
April 2024
Saugeen Bluffs Maple Syrup Festival
Delight in the sweet tradition of the Saugeen Bluffs Maple Syrup Festival in Paisley, Ontario, a beloved annual event celebrating the wonders of maple syrup. This festival features live music performances, a variety of vendors offering delicious treats like pancakes drenched in real maple syrup, and handcrafted items themed around this sugary delight. For an educational twist, enjoy guided walks through sugar bush sites to learn about maple syrup production.
Top Hiking Trails
Bridge to Bay Trail
Thomas Edison Pkwy, Port Huron, MI 48060, United States
Stretching 50 miles from Port Huron to Marysville, the Bridge to Bay Trail is an excellent choice for families, runners, and bikers alike. Hop on for a shorter portion of it or tackle the entire thing while enjoying breathtaking Lake Huron vistas. Throughout, you can look forward to winding through small towns and lovely forests alongside idyllic shorelines. Plus, you can even download an interactive map to make navigation easy.
Boardwalk Marsh Loop
3336 Loosemore Rd, Hume Township, MI 48467, United States
Set in the serene 280 acres of Huron County Nature Center, the Boardwalk Marsh Loop is a 1.82-mile easy trail that meanders through dunes and wetlands, offering a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. As you stroll or hike with friends, family, or your four-legged friend, enjoy the abundant bird-watching opportunities and the stunning views of Lake Huron. Complete your visit with a picnic on the grounds, surrounded by wildflowers and scenic marshland vistas, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing afternoon.
Alice W. Moore Woods Nature Sanctuary Trail
999 Stratford Rd, St Clair, MI 48079, United States
Opt for the 1.5-mile Alice W. Moore Woods Nature Sanctuary Loop Trail for a short but enchanting hike. Along the way, wander through a lush forest of oak-hickory woodland, across charming wooden bridges, and amidst wildflowers and berry bushes—all while watching for unique birds.
Best Golf Courses
Huron Shores Golf Club
1441 N Lakeshore Rd, Port Sanilac, MI 48469, United States
Established in 1925, the Huron Shores Golf Club offers a classic and scenic golfing experience. This 18-hole regulation course is known for its challenging layout, rolling hills, water hazards, tight fairways, and, more recently, its beautifully remodeled clubhouse. The club is open to the public, and its location just 3 miles north of Port Sanilac on M-25 means it’s easily accessible from various communities in the region.
Port Huron Golf Club
4101 Fairway Dr, Fort Gratiot Twp, MI 48059, United States
This club has a rich history dating back to June 1910. It was originally located in the Court and Griswold Street area of Port Huron, Michigan. Its current site in Fort Gratiot, just north of Port Huron, includes a 6,191-yard rolling Golf Course and a modern Clubhouse with a pool. The club has seen continual renovations and improvements over the years, maintaining its status as one of the premier private golf clubs in the Blue Water Area.
Caseville Golf Course
5848 Griggs Rd, Lake Township, MI 48725, United States
Opened in 1963, the Caseville Golf Course is a family-owned and operated 9-hole course designed by Al and Lorene Kipfer. The course measures 2810 yards from the longest tees and offers fairways and greens suitable for golfers at all skill levels. You’ll also find plenty of amenities here, like golf cart rentals, a driving range, a putting green, a pro shop, and a snack bar.
Water Sports
Thumbs Up Kiteboarding
Rentals & Lessons
For an exhilarating experience on the shores of Lake Huron, head to Thumbs Up Kiteboarding in Caseville, Michigan. This watersports center offers a range of activities, including kiteboarding, efoiling, windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and kayaking.
Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a beginner, their PASA-certified lesson center ensures safe and high-quality instruction, making it a must-visit for anyone passionate about water and board sports.
Xtreme Watersports
Jet Ski & Speed Boat Rentals
Xtreme Watersports in Grand Bend is your go-to destination for adrenaline-pumping water activities on Lake Huron. Their extensive fleet includes state-of-the-art Yamaha VX110 Deluxe High Output Jet Skis, perfect for those seeking a thrilling ride.
For a more relaxed adventure, their luxury speed boat charters offer a personalized experience, complete with options for cruising, swimming, fishing, or simply enjoying the sunset, ensuring a fun and hassle-free experience on the water.
Fly Over Water
eFoiling Lessons & Retailer
Experience the unique sensation of eFoiling with Fly Over Water. This eco-friendly sport combines surfing and flying, offering a quiet yet thrilling adventure on the water. Whether new to the sport or looking to enhance your skills, their private lessons promise a memorable and easy learning experience. And if you love it, Fly Over Water also has a range of eFoils for sale.
Winter Activities
Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing
The Chippewa Nature Center, located in Midland, Michigan, offers an enchanting winter experience with its 19 miles of trails open for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. These trails, spread across 1,500 acres, are groomed when there’s adequate snow, ensuring a delightful winter adventure for the entire family.
The center is open from dawn to dusk daily, so you can come play for a few hours or make a full day of it!
Ice Fishing
For those who find joy in winter fishing, Saginaw Bay on Lake Huron is an excellent location for ice fishing, especially for walleye. The bay typically gets enough ice in early to mid-January to head out, but always be sure to check in with locals before heading out to be sure.
Bundle up, bring a thermos of hot cocoa, and enjoy this peaceful activity with friends and family.
Downhill Skiing
Beaver Valley Ski Club, known for its family-oriented and friendly atmosphere, offers a variety of downhill skiing experiences. With 20 runs groomed daily, the club caters to all skill levels, featuring terrains like great terrain parks and glade skiing. The club’s signature run, Avalanche, is renowned for being the steepest groomed run in Ontario.
The mix of easy, more difficult, and expert runs ensures that Beaver Valley is suitable for everyone, from beginners to experienced skiers.
Where to Eat
Blue Water Inn
$ – $$ • Classic American
Freighters Eatery & Taproom
$ – $$ • Classic American
The Vintage Tavern
$ – $$ • Pizza, Burgers & More
Where to Shop
Bella on Lake Huron
Gift Shop
MI Passion Boutique, LLC
Women’s Clothing
Lighthouse Park Gift Shop
Gift Shop
Where to Sleep
Tips on Renting a Vacation Home on Lake Huron
Location and Shoreline Access
Decide if you prefer a quiet, secluded spot away from the crowds or a more bustling area close to towns like Bayfield, Port Huron, or Tawas City, where shopping, dining, and entertainment options are more accessible. Waterfront properties offer direct beach access for swimming and sunbathing, while rentals further inland might provide more privacy and space.
Seasonal Considerations
The seasons dramatically change the landscape and available activities around Lake Huron. Summer is ideal for beachgoers, boaters, and fishing enthusiasts, while fall brings stunning foliage, making it perfect for hiking and scenic drives. Winter on Lake Huron can be magical, with ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing opportunities.
Activities and Attractions
Plan ahead to ensure you experience everything on your wishlist, whether visiting the historic lighthouses, exploring the local maritime history, kayaking along the shoreline, or taking day trips to nearby islands like Manitoulin.
Environmental Awareness and Safety
The Great Lakes ecosystem is both delicate and diverse. Familiarize yourself with local wildlife, respect no-take zones, and practice safe boating and swimming to protect the environment. Additionally, the weather around Lake Huron can change rapidly, so it’s crucial to check forecasts regularly and be prepared for anything, especially if you’re venturing out on the water.
Going Deeper on Lake Huron
Lake Huron’s story begins long before the first European explorers set eyes on its vast expanse, with a history that stretches back thousands of years. Around 9,000 years ago, the landscape of Lake Huron was dramatically different, with water levels approximately 100 meters lower than today, revealing the Alpena-Amberley Ridge. This exposed land bridge served as a critical migration route for large herds of caribou, and the ridge itself became a site of significant activity for Paleo-Indians.
Archaeologists have discovered over 60 stone constructions along the submerged ridge, which are believed to have been used as hunting blinds. These findings, along with the discovery of obsidian tools originating from Oregon, highlight the existence of an extensive trade network and the ingenuity of early inhabitants in utilizing the natural landscape for their survival.
As time progressed, the region encompassing modern-day Lake Huron witnessed the development of complex societies among the Eastern Woodlands Native Americans. Evidence suggests the existence of a large settlement with over a hundred structures capable of supporting a population between 4,000 and 6,000 people.
The French, the first Europeans to explore the area, were struck by the vast freshwater sea, referring to it as La Mer Douce. The lake’s name evolved over time, with a 1656 map by Nicolas Sanson labeling it Karegnondi, a Wyandot word meaning “Freshwater Sea,” “Lake of the Hurons,” or simply “lake.” By the 1860s, European influence had grown significantly, with several settlements along its shores, including Sarnia, beginning to incorporate, marking a new chapter in Lake Huron’s rich and evolving narrative.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Huron
Lake Huron is one of the Great Lakes of North America and is known for its depth and vastness. The lake reaches its greatest depth at approximately 750 feet (229 meters).
The best way to explore Lake Huron’s diverse coastline is often by car, allowing you to visit various towns, parks, and beaches along the shore. For a more intimate experience with nature, consider taking boat tours or renting a kayak or paddleboard to access remote areas and islands.
Yes, swimming is allowed in Lake Huron. The lake has numerous beaches that are popular for swimming, especially during the warmer months. However, visitors should be aware of water temperatures and weather conditions, as the lake can be cooler than expected, even in summer.
Lake Huron stands out for its clear blue waters, beautiful beaches, and the surrounding landscapes that offer a mix of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, and exploring historical sites. The lake’s islands, like Manitoulin Island—the largest freshwater island in the world—add to its allure, making it a unique destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
Choosing between Lake Huron and Lake Michigan depends on your family’s interests. Lake Huron is known for its quieter, more secluded beaches and historic lighthouses, ideal for a relaxing retreat. Lake Michigan, on the other hand, offers bustling beach towns, dunes, and more commercial attractions. Both lakes offer beautiful natural landscapes and various activities, making them excellent options for family vacations.
Yes, guided tours are available around Lake Huron, offering a range of experiences from lighthouse tours and historical walks to boat excursions and eco-adventures. These tours provide insightful ways to learn about the lake’s ecology, history, and cultural significance while enjoying its scenic beauty.
Must-visit attractions around Lake Huron include the picturesque towns of Bayfield, Goderich, and Tobermory; the stunning Bruce Peninsula National Park; the historic lighthouses dotting the coastline; and the shipwreck sites for diving enthusiasts. Manitoulin Island offers a unique cultural experience with its rich Indigenous history and natural beauty.