Lake Michigan is one of those things you have to see to believe. The lake is known for its remarkable beauty and recreation opportunities, drawing visitors to its shores throughout the year. For those living in or around New Buffalo, Michigan, the lake is much more than just a backdrop—it's a part of everyday life.
While you might be familiar with its sandy beaches and picturesque views, there’s a lot more to Lake Michigan than meets the eye. There’s so much more to be discovered. Here are some interesting facts you might not know about Lake Michigan.
1. The Only Great Lake That’s Entirely in the U.S.
One of the most distinctive facts about Lake Michigan is that it's the only Great Lake located entirely within the United States. While the other four Great Lakes share borders with Canada, Lake Michigan is bordered by four U.S. states—Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin. This makes Lake Michigan unique among its counterparts, giving it a special place in American geography.
2. It's One of the Largest Freshwater Lakes in the World
Lake Michigan ranks as one of the largest freshwater lakes globally, both in terms of surface area and volume. In fact, Lake Michigan is the second-largest of the Great Lakes by volume, holding about 1,180 cubic miles of water. It covers a surface area of approximately 22,400 square miles, making it the fifth-largest freshwater lake in the world.
Lake Michigan contains enough water to cover the entire state of Michigan with water up to 11 feet deep! This vast body of water supports ecosystems, industries, and millions of people who rely on it for drinking water, recreation, and more.
3. Shipwrecks Lurk Beneath Its Surface
Beneath the tranquil surface of Lake Michigan lies a fascinating and somewhat eerie secret—hundreds of shipwrecks. Due to its size, depth, and historical role in trade and transportation, Lake Michigan has seen numerous ships sink over the centuries. Some estimates suggest there are around 1,500 shipwrecks in the Great Lakes, with many of them resting at the bottom of Lake Michigan.
Many of these shipwrecks are remarkably well-preserved due to the cold, freshwater environment, which slows the decay of wood and metal. The area around the Manitou Passage Underwater Preserve in northern Lake Michigan is a popular destination for divers who want to explore these historic wrecks.
For those not interested in diving, there are several museums around the lake dedicated to its maritime history, including the Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven.
4. Lake Michigan Has Sand Dunes Taller Than Some Skyscrapers
The shoreline of Lake Michigan is home to some of the largest freshwater sand dunes in the world. In particular, the Indiana Dunes National Park and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan boast towering dunes that rise hundreds of feet above the lake.
The largest of these dunes, Mount Baldy near Michigan City, Indiana, reaches heights of around 126 feet. Even more impressive is Sleeping Bear Dunes, where some dunes can rise up to 450 feet. These incredible formations provide not only stunning views but also unique hiking and climbing experiences.
The sand dunes are a natural result of wind and wave action on the lake, which continues to shape them today. Visitors can explore these majestic landscapes, walk along scenic trails, and even slide down the dunes—an experience that both kids and adults will love.
5. Lake Michigan's Water is Always on the Move
While Lake Michigan might look calm on the surface, the water is constantly moving. The lake experiences both surface currents and deeper circulatory patterns that help distribute nutrients and regulate water temperatures. Additionally, seiches—large, standing waves caused by atmospheric pressure changes—occur periodically on Lake Michigan, causing fluctuations in water levels.
The constant motion of Lake Michigan’s water has an important role in maintaining the health of its ecosystems. Fish populations, aquatic plants, and even the weather patterns around the lake are influenced by these currents.
6. It's Home to Rare and Endangered Species
Lake Michigan is home to a diverse range of plant and animal life, including some species that are rare or endangered. The lake’s shores, wetlands, and waters provide critical habitats for a variety of wildlife, including fish like lake sturgeon, birds like the piping plover, and even unique plant species found in the dunes and marshlands.
One species of particular interest is the lake sturgeon, a prehistoric fish that can live for more than 100 years and grow up to seven feet long. Once abundant in Lake Michigan, the sturgeon population declined due to overfishing and habitat destruction, but conservation efforts have helped protect this ancient fish.
Similarly, the piping plover, a small shorebird, nests on the sandy beaches of Lake Michigan. It's considered endangered, and environmental groups work to protect its nesting areas during the breeding season.
7. It's Part of the World's Largest Freshwater System
Lake Michigan is connected to the other Great Lakes through a series of natural and man-made waterways, including the Straits of Mackinac, which connect it to Lake Huron. Together, the Great Lakes form the largest group of freshwater lakes on Earth by total area, containing about 84% of North America’s fresh surface water.
Partner with the Choose Chad Team
Looking for a home with access to Lake Michigan? Whether you’re dreaming of a lakefront property or just want to learn more about living near this incredible lake, the Choose Chad Team can help. With extensive knowledge of the New Buffalo area and surrounding communities, they can guide you to the perfect home that takes advantage of all Lake Michigan has to offer. Contact the
Choose Chad Team today to start your search for a home by the lake!
