Travel | May 1, 2026 11:44 a.m.

The images of Lakes Huron, Erie, Superior, Michigan and Ontario are pulled from submissions to the Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest

The sun sets behind the hills of Duluth, Minnesota, creating a warm glow on the shimmering surface of Lake Superior. Brittany Borgan, Minnesota, 2025

These 15 Majestic Photographs Showcase the Beauty of the Great Lakes and Will Make You Fall in Love With the Natural Wonders

The images of Lakes Huron, Erie, Superior, Michigan and Ontario are pulled from submissions to the Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest

Photographs selected by Allison Scates

May 1, 2026 11:44 a.m.

The sun sets behind the hills of Duluth, Minnesota, creating a warm glow on the shimmering surface of Lake Superior. Brittany Borgan, Minnesota, 2025

Not just any body of water can be deemed a great lake. The five Sweetwater Seas comprise the world's largest surface freshwater system.…