Lake Erie, one of the five Great Lakes, holds a special place in the geography of New York State. As the southernmost Great Lake, it forms a natural border between New York and Canada, with a significant portion of its shoreline gracing western New York. This expansive body of water influences the climate and natural environment of the surrounding region. It’s a vital component of New York’s economy, facilitating commercial shipping through the Welland Canal and the Erie Canal, linking the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean. The New York shores of Lake Erie are characterized by picturesque landscapes, including vineyards and small towns, and offer recreational activities like fishing, boating, and swimming. Despite its beauty and economic importance, Lake Erie has also been a focal point for environmental concerns in New York, particularly regarding water quality and preservation of its rich ecosystem. A major part of the restoration of the park in recent decades has been to rehabilitate existing and create new parks and preserves along the shoreline. Each of these parks offers distinct features, from sandy beaches and camping facilities to birdwatching and scenic bluffs, catering to a variety of interests and activities for visitors.
The 4th largest of the 5 Great Lakes, it is 9,910 sq miles in surface area and is the shallowest of them all, averaging 62 ft deep (210 ft at its deepest point).
