List of islands of the Great Lakes facts for kids

Islands in northern Lake Michigan and eastern Lake Superior on June 17, 2022. This picture was taken from the International Space Station. North is towards the upper left. The Beaver Islands are at the top center, with the Manitou Islands at the top right and the Fox Islands between them. You can also see islands inside of Grand Traverse Bay in the top right corner. The Potawatomi Islands are below the Beaver and Manitou Islands. The Strawberry Islands and Chambers Island are inside Green Bay in the lower right corner. Caribou Island in Lake Superior is near the left side.

The Great Lakes are huge freshwater lakes located between Canada (in Ontario) and the United States. Imagine them like giant bathtubs! Scattered across these lakes are about 35,000 islands. These islands were formed a very long time ago by massive sheets of ice called glaciers. As the glaciers moved, they carved out the land, leaving behind these islands. The biggest island in all the Great Lakes is Manitoulin Island in Lake Huron. It's so big, it's the largest lake island in the whole world! It covers an area of about 1,068 square miles (2,766 square kilometers).

How Great Lakes Islands Were Formed

The many islands in the Great Lakes were created by something called glacial activity. Thousands of years ago, huge sheets of ice, known as glaciers, covered much of North America. These glaciers were incredibly powerful. As they slowly moved across the land, they scraped away soil and rock.

The Power of Glaciers

When the glaciers moved, they dug out the deep basins that became the Great Lakes. In some places, the rock was harder or the ice didn't scrape as deeply. These higher spots of land were left behind as the glaciers melted. These leftover high spots became the islands we see today. This is why there are so many islands, and why they are scattered all over the lakes.

Exploring Famous Great Lakes Islands

Many of the Great Lakes islands are popular places to visit. Some are known for their natural beauty, while others have interesting history or unique communities. Here are a few notable examples:

Manitoulin Island: The World's Largest Lake Island

Manitoulin Island in Lake Huron is not just the biggest island in the Great Lakes, it's the largest lake island anywhere on Earth! It's located in Ontario, Canada. This island is so large that it even has its own lakes and rivers. People visit Manitoulin for its beautiful scenery, hiking trails, and to learn about the local Indigenous culture.

Mackinac Island: A Step Back in Time

Mackinac Island in Lake Michigan, Michigan, United States, is famous because cars are not allowed there! People get around by walking, biking, or horse-drawn carriages. It feels like stepping back in time. The island has a historic fort, beautiful Victorian-era buildings, and delicious fudge. It's a very popular tourist spot.

Isle Royale: A Wilderness Adventure

Isle Royale is a large island in Lake Superior, part of Michigan, United States. It's a national park and a true wilderness area. There are no roads, and you can only reach it by boat or seaplane. It's known for its rugged beauty, hiking trails, and unique wildlife, including moose and wolves. It's a great place for adventurous campers and hikers.

The Apostle Islands: A Group of Beautiful Islands

The Apostle Islands are a group of 21 islands in Lake Superior, off the coast of Wisconsin, United States. They are known for their stunning sea caves, old lighthouses, and beautiful sandy beaches. Many of these islands are part of a national lakeshore, protecting their natural beauty. Visitors can explore them by boat, kayak, or even hiking on some of the larger islands.

Pelee Island: Canada's Southernmost Point

Pelee Island is in Lake Erie and is the southernmost point of Canada. It's known for its mild climate, which is great for growing grapes for wine. The island has a relaxed atmosphere, with vineyards, beaches, and a lighthouse. It's a popular spot for cycling and enjoying nature.

Drummond Island: An Off-Road Paradise

Drummond Island is located in Lake Huron, in Michigan, United States. It's a large island known for its vast network of off-road trails, making it a popular destination for ATVs and Jeeps. It also offers great fishing, hunting, and boating opportunities, with many quiet bays and inlets to explore.

Other Notable Islands

Many other islands in the Great Lakes offer unique experiences:

• The Bass Islands in Lake Erie are famous for their lively atmosphere and wineries.
• Washington Island in Lake Michigan is the largest of the Potawatomi Islands and has a strong Scandinavian heritage.
• Bois Blanc Island in Lake Huron is a quieter, more natural island, popular for camping and outdoor activities.
• The Toronto Islands are a chain of small islands in Lake Ontario, right near downtown Toronto. They offer beautiful views of the city skyline, beaches, and amusement park rides.