Southern Minnesota Lake Named Prettiest in the State

Right now, I should be on a boat. Sun kissed skin, drink in hand, hair blowing in the wind, zero responsibilities beyond reapplying sunscreen. Gah, don't mind me over daydreaming.

Instead, it’s winter in Minnesota. And unless you’re ice skating, snowshoeing, or drilling holes in frozen water, our lakes aren’t exactly bringing main-character energy right now.

Which is probably why I found myself clicking a headline about the prettiest lakes in America while mentally booking summer getaways.

Also See: These Are Minnesota's Most Polluted Lakes

And I’ll be honest, when I first saw it, I almost didn’t even bother opening it. Because obviously it’s Lake Superior, right? She’s literally named Superior. Except… nope. Turns out, it’s not Lake Superior. It's actually a lot closer to home!

Reader’s Digest dropped a list of the most beautiful lake in every state, and in a state where the word 'lakes' is literally in our slogan, obviously there's some serious competition.

Naturally, I assumed the winner would be up north. Because let’s be real, northern Minnesota lakes have my heart forever. Those towering pines, stunning lighthouses, glassy water at sunrise, and cabins that make you believe you could absolutely live off-grid. What's not to love?

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Southern Minnesota Lake Named the Prettiest in the State:

I’ll admit, their pick caught me off guard at first. I love Lake Pepin, don’t get me wrong, but number one? Yep, Lake Pepin just beat tens of thousands of other lakes to be Minnesota’s prettiest.

Interestingly, our pick for Minnesota’s prettiest lake is Lake Pepin, the widest natural part of the Mississippi River. This large body of water, some 20-plus miles long and almost three miles wide, actually forms the border between Minnesota and Wisconsin. Think: verdant bluffs that kiss the water’s edge, cliff faces that jut out of the otherwise rolling hills and charming river towns that dot the edges of this outdoor paradise. - Reader's Digest

There are few things I love more than a good trip to Lake City. Driving the river road, taking in the stunning bluff views, feeding the ducks, and passing through charming little towns that look like they were designed for postcards. Pure perfection!

Now excuse me while I stare out the window at frozen everything and mentally place myself on a boat… counting down the days until lake season comes back.

So, what’s your pick? Because let’s be real, Minnesota has so many lakes, we eventually ran out of name ideas. (Looking at you, Round Lake)