Studying the dimensions of the Lake Pontchartrain reveals some very interesting facts.
The lake is considered the largest in Louisiana, and the world's longest bridge spans the length of the lake, from the north to the south, a distance somewhat less than 25 miles.
The city of Mandeville is located on the lake's shores, and has a distinguished and old history, dating back to the mid-nineteenth century.
While the lake may be the largest in the state, Lake Pontchartrain depth does not match up to the vastness of its length, and here lies the twist in the tale.
At less than 15ft.
-- 12ft.
in some seasons -- the lake is considered to be very shallow.
And yet, this is a popular boating site, with the Pontchartrain Yacht club offering boating lessons for adults and children, and organizing the summer sailing camp for families and individuals.
The shallow waters actually provide plenty of opportunities for thrills and fun.
Experienced sailors understand what a combination of high wind speed and shallow waters could mean, in terms of sailing challenge.
Proper precautions are necessary, because the lake throws up plenty of surprises, weather-wise.
First-time visitors are cautioned against being lulled into a sense of complacency, considering the shallow depths and the fact that the surrounding shores encircle the lake almost entirely.
What distinguish this lake from most others are the unexpectedly fierce storms that can strike with very little warning.
The high wind speeds of up to 50 knots, and waves that could reach a height of 6ft.
, make this lake somewhat of a challenge for boaters.
Sailors are advised to rush back to shore the moment they feel that the weather has taken a turn for the worse.
Similar warnings are also offered to fishing enthusiasts.
The weather can become difficult at short notice.
However, locals will guide fishing enthusiasts to fishing spots that are likely to yield the best catch without requiring them to risk life and limb in the squalls far out on the lake.
So what makes this lake a popular destination for sailors and fishermen, given its short-notice squalls and shallow depths? Activities Lake Pontchartrain's depth is what makes the place popular with sailors -- the shallow waters offering peculiar sailing conditions to be rarely found elsewhere.
Plus, the waterfront activities, from the busy-as-a-beehive French Quarters to the fishermen sorting the day's catch --the place is famous for its oysters --are an interesting sight.
The restaurants and other features by the lake shores are also worth exploring, as they offer an opportunity to taste the local delicacies.
There is also the option of camping by the shore.
Visitors can be seen enjoying the sights from the decks of the riverboats traversing the length and breadth of the Lake Pontchartrain.
For people who love to observe estuarine habitats, this place offers plenty of opportunities.
Many rivers drain into the basin adjacent to the lake, creating a merging of fresh water into saline water, a feature that is typical of estuaries.
The lake is a great place to be, whether you're a visitor or a resident.
The chance to study nature from up close, the experience of waterfront living, and many sailing and fishing opportunities make Lake Pontchartrain a must-visit destination.
The lake is considered the largest in Louisiana, and the world's longest bridge spans the length of the lake, from the north to the south, a distance somewhat less than 25 miles.
The city of Mandeville is located on the lake's shores, and has a distinguished and old history, dating back to the mid-nineteenth century.
While the lake may be the largest in the state, Lake Pontchartrain depth does not match up to the vastness of its length, and here lies the twist in the tale.
At less than 15ft.
-- 12ft.
in some seasons -- the lake is considered to be very shallow.
And yet, this is a popular boating site, with the Pontchartrain Yacht club offering boating lessons for adults and children, and organizing the summer sailing camp for families and individuals.
The shallow waters actually provide plenty of opportunities for thrills and fun.
Experienced sailors understand what a combination of high wind speed and shallow waters could mean, in terms of sailing challenge.
Proper precautions are necessary, because the lake throws up plenty of surprises, weather-wise.
First-time visitors are cautioned against being lulled into a sense of complacency, considering the shallow depths and the fact that the surrounding shores encircle the lake almost entirely.
What distinguish this lake from most others are the unexpectedly fierce storms that can strike with very little warning.
The high wind speeds of up to 50 knots, and waves that could reach a height of 6ft.
, make this lake somewhat of a challenge for boaters.
Sailors are advised to rush back to shore the moment they feel that the weather has taken a turn for the worse.
Similar warnings are also offered to fishing enthusiasts.
The weather can become difficult at short notice.
However, locals will guide fishing enthusiasts to fishing spots that are likely to yield the best catch without requiring them to risk life and limb in the squalls far out on the lake.
So what makes this lake a popular destination for sailors and fishermen, given its short-notice squalls and shallow depths? Activities Lake Pontchartrain's depth is what makes the place popular with sailors -- the shallow waters offering peculiar sailing conditions to be rarely found elsewhere.
Plus, the waterfront activities, from the busy-as-a-beehive French Quarters to the fishermen sorting the day's catch --the place is famous for its oysters --are an interesting sight.
The restaurants and other features by the lake shores are also worth exploring, as they offer an opportunity to taste the local delicacies.
There is also the option of camping by the shore.
Visitors can be seen enjoying the sights from the decks of the riverboats traversing the length and breadth of the Lake Pontchartrain.
For people who love to observe estuarine habitats, this place offers plenty of opportunities.
Many rivers drain into the basin adjacent to the lake, creating a merging of fresh water into saline water, a feature that is typical of estuaries.
The lake is a great place to be, whether you're a visitor or a resident.
The chance to study nature from up close, the experience of waterfront living, and many sailing and fishing opportunities make Lake Pontchartrain a must-visit destination.
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