Lake Erie may not be the greatest of the Great Lakes – it is larger than only Lake Ontario, but is actually the smallest by volume; it is the shallowest of the system and the most vulnerable to fluctuating water levels. Still, it ranks within the top 20 largest lakes in the world and boating on Lake Erie is a popular pastime for those in the region.

Lake Erie offers 9910 square miles of  surface area, and 871 miles of coastline, with its borders touching both the U.S. and Canada. The province of Ontario creates its northern shore; Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York are on the southern and easternmost shores; and Michigan hugs the western coastline.  All but 5% of Lake Erie’s total inflow of water comes from Lakes Superior, Michigan and Huron, the St. Clair River, Lake St. Clair and numerous tributaries – all via the Detroit River.  Lake Erie contributes the avenue for waterborne commerce,  manufacturing, and power production, causing intensive industrial development along its shore, but the lake’s moderate temperatures have also resulted in its status as a favorite for  recreation and agriculture.  Lake Erie is the warmest and most biologically productive of the Great Lakes, and the Lake Erie walleye fishery is famously esteemed as the best in the world.

Lake Erie contributes the avenue for waterborne commerce,  manufacturing, and power production, causing intensive industrial development along its shore, but the lake’s moderate temperatures have also resulted in its status as a favorite for  recreation and agriculture.  Lake Erie is the warmest and most biologically productive of the Great Lakes, and the Lake Erie walleye fishery is famously esteemed as the best in the world.

When boating on Lake Erie, sailors will find conditions as close to a freshwater ocean, exhibiting tides, currents, and wind waves that can reach over six feet. Here are some of the highlights on can find on beautiful Lake Erie:

• This honeymoon capital of the northeast, Niagara Falls, provides the spectacular and beautiful drop in elevation which resulted in North America’s most iconic waterfall.
• The sandy peninsula of Cedar Point is situated on the lake’s southern coast just west of Cleveland. Marinas, restaurants, water sports and a famous amusement park – with the world’s best collection of roller coasters – are all located on the shores of Lake Erie.
• Put-in Bay: This small Ohio town on Bass Island requires access by water or air. It was recently voted one of the nation’s most charming towns.

Lake Erie has historically had some public relations issues due to the industry located along its shores, but the Clean Water Act has restored and now protects the local environment, and watersports are considered common and very safe. When boating on Lake Erie or any of our amazing Great Lakes, don’t forget the Sign & Glide membership for peace of mind – affordable on-water towing services available for one flat, annual fee.