The loon’s call is pure magic—and it’s disappearing.
Once, their haunting cries echoed across countless American lakes.
Now? You’re lucky to hear even one.
Their voice isn’t just a sound.
It’s a mood.
It’s nostalgia, mystery, wildness—wrapped in a single note that cuts straight through still water and straight into your chest.
But loons are picky.
They need clean, quiet, undisturbed places to raise their young and call their own.
And those places are getting harder to find.
The good news?
They’re not gone. Not yet.
There are still lakes that hold onto the wild, where the loons return year after year and sing as the sun slips away.
These 14 lakes still echo with their ancient song.
But don’t wait too long to visit.
One day, silence might move in.
Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire
Lake Winnipesaukee, with its vast expanse of water, is a haven for loons. Known for its pristine beauty, this lake offers a picturesque setting where the haunting calls of loons resonate across the water. The lake’s natural surroundings, coupled with its peaceful ambiance, make it an ideal spot to experience the ethereal presence of these birds.
Visitors are often enchanted by the loons’ calls as they echo, creating a tranquil soundscape. The lake’s diverse ecosystem supports a healthy loon population, ensuring their calls remain a staple at sunset.
Rainy Lake, Minnesota
Nestled within Minnesota’s wilderness, Rainy Lake is a sanctuary for loons. As the sun sets, the loons’ calls provide a serene melody against the backdrop of the lake’s gentle waves. This large, sprawling lake offers plenty of space for loons to thrive.
The lake’s remote location allows for an untouched natural experience, where visitors can truly appreciate the beauty of the loons in their habitat. The calls of these birds add a mystical element to the calmness of the evening.
Lake Michigan, Michigan
Lake Michigan, one of the Great Lakes, offers a unique blend of urban charm and natural wonder. Loons can be found here, their calls carrying across the water as the day ends. The juxtaposition of city lights and natural beauty makes for an unforgettable experience.
The expansive waters of Lake Michigan provide a perfect habitat for loons, allowing their calls to echo freely. This lake’s mixture of vibrant city life and serene nature makes it a must-visit for loon enthusiasts.
Crater Lake, Oregon
Crater Lake’s deep blue waters and stunning volcanic backdrop create a dramatic setting for the calls of loons. The isolation of this lake, formed in a caldera, provides a unique acoustic environment where loons’ voices resonate.
This natural wonder, known for its clarity and depth, offers a rare opportunity to hear loons in a breathtaking locale. As the day fades, the sounds of these birds enhance the sense of wonder that Crater Lake inspires.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe, straddling California and Nevada, is famed for its clear waters and stunning views. Here, the calls of loons add a layer of serenity to this already tranquil setting. The lake’s vastness and elevation make it an ideal spot for these birds.
At sunset, as the sky paints itself in hues of orange and pink, the loons’ calls provide a calming soundtrack to the evening. The combination of mountainous beauty and the loons’ presence makes Lake Tahoe a magical place for nature lovers.
Lake Superior, Wisconsin
Lake Superior, the largest of the Great Lakes, is a majestic setting for the melodic calls of loons. The vastness of the lake allows their voices to carry great distances, adding to the majestic feel of the place.
The rugged shoreline and pristine waters make it a perfect habitat for loons. As the sun sets, the calls of loons echo across the water, creating a symphony of natural sounds that enhance the lake’s grandeur.
Flathead Lake, Montana
Flathead Lake’s vast open waters and stunning mountain views make it a peaceful retreat for loons. Their calls resonate across the lake, adding to the sense of tranquility that envelops the area as the sun sets.
The lake’s clean, clear water supports a healthy ecosystem, providing an ideal environment for loons. Visitors can enjoy the gentle symphony of loon calls as they explore this beautiful Montana gem.
Lake George, New York
Lake George, known as the “Queen of American Lakes,” is a picturesque setting for the enchanting calls of loons. The lake’s clear waters and lush surroundings make it an inviting home for these birds.
As the sun sets, the calls of loons fill the air, creating a peaceful atmosphere. The combination of natural beauty and the loons’ haunting melody ensure Lake George remains a beloved destination for nature enthusiasts.
Lake Champlain, Vermont
Lake Champlain, with its rich history and stunning landscape, is a favorite spot for loons. Their calls echo across the water, providing a soothing soundtrack as the day ends.
The lake’s abundant fish population makes it an ideal location for loons to thrive. As the sun dips below the horizon, the haunting melody of loon calls adds to the lake’s charm and draws nature lovers to its shores.
Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho
Lake Pend Oreille, nestled in the Idaho panhandle, is a haven for loons. The lake’s deep, clear waters and surrounding forests create a perfect habitat for these birds.
As the sun sets, the loons’ calls resonate, adding a mystical element to the evening. The lake’s natural beauty and the enchanting sounds of the loons make it a popular destination for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature.
Lake of the Woods, Minnesota
Lake of the Woods, spanning the border between Minnesota and Canada, is a vast wilderness area where loons thrive. Their calls echo across the lake’s wide expanse, creating a hauntingly beautiful soundscape.
The lake’s diverse ecosystem supports a healthy loon population, making it a prime location for birdwatchers. At sunset, the calls of loons add a touch of magic to this already enchanting location.
Lake Huron, Michigan
Lake Huron, part of the Great Lakes, is a mesmerizing setting where loons’ calls can be heard. The lake’s vastness and scenic beauty provide a perfect backdrop for loon enthusiasts.
As the sun sets, the echoing calls of loons create a mesmerizing soundscape. The combination of stunning vistas and the melodic presence of loons ensures Lake Huron remains a cherished location for nature lovers.
Lake Monroe, Indiana
Lake Monroe, located in southern Indiana, is a tranquil spot where loons make their presence known. The lake’s gentle waters and surrounding forests provide an ideal habitat for these iconic birds.
Visitors to Lake Monroe can enjoy the soothing calls of loons as they explore the area’s natural beauty. The loons’ presence adds a unique charm to the lake, making it a favorite destination for those seeking peace and nature’s music.
Lake Placid, New York
Lake Placid, nestled in the heart of the Adirondacks, offers a tranquil retreat where loons’ calls can be heard. The lake’s clear waters and mountainous backdrop provide a stunning setting for these birds.
As the day ends, the calls of loons echo across the lake, adding to its serene ambiance. The combination of natural beauty and the loons’ presence makes Lake Placid a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.