One of the Most Beautiful Lakes in the United States is in New Hampshire

Residents of New Hampshire know that our state is filled with hidden gems that we mostly don't want to tell anybody about.  However, Travel + Leisure has published some of the most beautiful in the entire United States, so the word is out that our own Echo Lake is on that list.

RELATED:  Maine Lake Named One of the Best 15 in the United States

You'll find Echo Lake in the White Mountain National Forest, and from what I remember, it is surrounded by some of the best hiking trails in New England.

The lake itself covers about 16 acres, and can mirror the mountains around it on a clear day.

It's a perfect place to take the family for picnic and a hike.  Keep in mind that the park is "carry in/carry out" to keep it clean.  Nothing fries my potato more than to see garbage of any kind, but especially beer cans around Mother Nature's beauty.

History of Echo Lake State Park

According to NEMBA.org, the park was purchased by 22 people in 1899 for $1,000.  The property was almost developed in 1943, but the Society for the Protection of NH Forests stepped in and bought the property along with the State of New Hampshire, thus protecting it.  Thank Mother Nature herself.

Lake Willoughby, Westmore, Vermont

Travel + Leisure also mentions Lake Willoughby in Westmore, Vermont.  My brother and sister-in-law have a house in Albany, Vermont, and we have made a visit to that lake on several occasions.  Although my heart will always beat for the Granite State, my oh my, Lake Willoughby is stunning and worth a road trip.

Lake Willoughby is about three hours from Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and about three-and-a-half hours from Portland, Maine.