West Lake Okoboji Real EstateWest Lake Okoboji is the second largest of five connecting lakes that are considered part of the Iowa Great Lakes system. The beautiful lake is one of only three blue water lakes in the world, taking its place with Lake Geneva in Switzerland and Lake Louise in Canada. ?Blue lakes? are so-called because of their cobalt color, which is naturally deep and intense, unlike many other lakes and rivers which are often green, brackish or brown in color.There are a number of reasons suggested for the intense blue of West Lake Okoboji. The lake was originally scooped out of the prairie eons ago by the glaciers that crept across the continent. Most glacial lakes are shallow, but with a maximum depth of 136 feet, West Lake Okoboji is not only the deepest of the Great Lakes, but the deepest natural lake in Iowa. That depth is one ingredient in the deep blue color of the water. In addition, the lake is located at the point of one of the highest areas in Iowa, and little runoff water, carrying sediments and debris, flows into the lake, maintaining its pristine purity. The lake is fed by underwater springs, that filter and clean the water continuously, and finally, it?s believed that naturally occurring blue-green algae contribute to the striking, clear blue of West Lake Okoboji. At one time, West Lake was known as Minnetonka, a Native American (either Dakotah or Sioux) word meaning ?great waters?. The most recent settlers decided to use the name Okoboji (pronounced ?ohkoboozhee?) for both the East and West lakes that define the boundaries of the city of Okoboji. No matter what you call the lake, though, its depth and size make it the single most popular vacation destination in Iowa. The sparkling, pristine water isn?t the only attraction that West Lake Okoboji holds for visitors and residents alike. The fishing has a reputation as being sublime, and there?s little wonder at that. The lake is home to over 47 species of fish, 11 of them popular sport fish. The species found in West Lake include walleye, yellow perch, black bass and white bass, crappie, muskie, smallmouth bass and northern pike, making the West Lake Okoboji one of the most popular fishing spots in the state. The depth of the lake makes it a natural draw for recreational boating and water sports, including speedboating, sailing, para-sailing, water skiing, jet skiing and swimming. There are numerous water and amusement parks along its shores, offering days full of activities for the entire family. Hiking and biking trails contribute to the off-water amusements available, as do excellent restaurants, lodges and resorts. One of the most unique destinations on the shores of West Lake is the Iowa Lakeside Lab. Established in 1909 by University of Iowa professor, Thomas H. MacBride and colleagues from other Iowa colleges, Lakeside Lab provides an opportunity for Iowa students to engage in hands-on research and projects surrounding the lake. While its main focus is summer field studies for undergrad and graduate students, Lakeside Lab also offers many activities and programs for kindergarten through grade 12 students, and families. Those activities include summer lake camps and one-day seminars. Whether your aim is a relaxing vacation, a fun-filled sporting weekend or an educational outing, West Lake Okoboji offers something to please everyone. Enjoy a visit to Okoboji, or settle in for a lifetime of memories when you purchase your own home or vacation home on the shores of the West Lake. |
Contact Okoboji Real Estate for questions on residential real estate, community info, or any other questions. We offer real estate info in and around the Okoboji, Spirit Lake, and Iowa Great Lakes.
3plains LLC & Re/Max Results 2100 Ford Parkway #201 St. Paul, MN 55116 c/o Matt Barker A licensed real estate agent in MN. (612) 366-1527
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