The 70 hectare lake was named after businessman and inventor Nathaniel Hayward; a founder of the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. The heaviest largemouth bass ever caught in Connecticut was caught in Mashapaug Lake in 1961 (12lbs. From the right of the large rock, is a sizeable shallow, sandy area PHOTO to cool off after hiking up and down Bear Mountain. Just past the underpass for RT 8, The depth of the pool (11-25? This could be part of the reason the lake's speed limit is set at eight miles per hour. The watershed is 2,932 acres of mostly undeveloped forested land with some light residential development. The watershed is 2,932 acres of mostly undeveloped forested land with some light residential development. While both fishing and boating are allowed on the sparkling waters of Mansfield Hollow Lake, swimming is forbidden. The island/park is accessible by boat, canoe and kayak, and once there, you can enjoy a quiet picnic. I would've liked at least a washing area for your hands or even hand sanitizer after every use. Diana's Pool from the rock outcroppings. In the mid-1880's, two different parties attempted to draw the water from this natural pond. The West Thompson Dam Disc Golf Course on the eastern shore is renowned for its scenic vistas of the dam and lake. Swimming in an unsupervised, bucolic area of a very large, If the kids still need more entertaining, head to the sprinkler park or grab a bite at the snack bar. With majestic mountains and hills, as well as picturesque forests, lush river valleys, and coastal lowlands, Connecticut offers a diversity of scenic backdrops for its many lakes. Some locals refer to this phenomenal beauty as "Mirror Lake." Unfortunately, I suffered a heart attack in Dec. with many complications. for more information: Insider's tip: You'll have more luck if you head out early or stay late; the lake is a popular place to visit for boating and waterskiing. Bobs Place Fish Tackle in nearby Killingly provides the equipment and advice you need to angle for bass, panfish, and other species. uses the rope swing. Terms Of Service - - - -Blog - Marine Leader Board. Mashapaug Lake is located in the town of Union and is a natural lake within the Thames River Drainage Basin. The USAs oldest ever water ski club can be found along its shoreline, as can numerous camping grounds and boat launches. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Parking Spaces: Mashapaug Lake fishing map is available as part of iBoating : USA Marine & Fishing App(now supported on multiple platforms including Android, iPhone/iPad, MacBook, and Windows(tablet and phone)/PC based chartplotter.). The 214 hectare lake is a natural lake that is surrounded by a marina, four campgrounds and several private homes. The word "Mashapaug" is the Nipmuck Indian word for "Great Pond". Public buildings at most state parks are also accessible. Or come back in the winter for ice fishing, another popular sport on the lake. The lake has a maximum depth of 39.5 feet (12.0 meters), and an average depth of 15 feet (4.6 meters). Downstream from the small falls, there is one deep It could be because it is not supported, or that JavaScript is intentionally disabled. Picnic tables scattered throughout the wooded area and along the water line. Find vacation rentals near Mansfield Hollow Lake. The - Check the depth of the pool before you jump Most of the difficulty is the first half. brook with wide and flat area upstream, good for wading and small Also official swimming This is whirlpools with 5 bedrooms, House parking area a bit further down RT 47 on the left. The lake has a maximum depth of 39.5 feet (12.0 meters), and an average depth of 15 feet (4.6 meters). Additional parking is available in the park 500 yards from the launch. water. Crystal Lake sits in the town of the same name in the north part of Connecticut; east of the Connecticut River. This page is not available in other languages. It was completely shaded by tree cover which was nice because it was an especially hot day. Mashapaug Lake is a lake surrounded by Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest in the town of Union in northeastern Connecticut. The lake also features public boat launches and picnic areas. turn left onto Haddam Quarter Road. Lake Zoar is home to four boat launches, with one being situated in each town. Everything from hawks to bobcats to deer to beavers can be seen in this protected area. Travel about a mile south The lake sits along the Housatonic River near the confluence of the Shepaug River, and is surrounded by six towns. Although called a pond, this recreational lake sits in the Squantz Pond State Park. Activities: Fishing, scuba diving, swimming, boating. Lots of steep hills covered in snow and ice. Located in Bigelow Hollow State Park, Mashapaug Lake covers a massive 287 acres. This is also the most popular, with anglers, boaters, and nature lovers zipping before the numerous residential and vacation properties that line its shores. The creek is very near private property and the 35 guests Mashapaug Pond Boat Launch Ramp Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Bigelow Brook Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking. You'll also find a public boat launch and beach here. Beautiful trail until you get to the pond area, which is party central, complete tree with blasting music, drunk and loud people. a pool, waterfalls, and rocks to jump from. The trail is a short distance to the river and some smaller falls along the path. The water level was raised by the construction of three low earthen dams. If you have any questions, please contact the Boating Division at 860-434-8638 or deep.boating@ct.gov . This is a popular trail for camping, fishing, and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. [4], The majority of Mashapaug Lake's bottom consists of gravel and sand, with some scattered boulders, trees, and stumps. Boating, scuba diving, hiking, hunting, and fishing are all allowed here. This makes it a haven for bird lovers from all across the globe. At 0.7 miles, bear right and Some also come to dive into the water off of the 7.6 metres high Chicken Rock. Macbook ChartPlotter, and Windows Marine Navigation Appnow available-. Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Chain Pickerel, Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Yellow Perch, Brown Bullhead, Sunfish, White Sucker, Boat Access: Mashapaug Pond View Trail (Blue/White Bar), Bigelow Hollow Pond, Mashapaug Lake and Breakneck Pond, Nipmuck Trail: Eastford Road to Southern Terminus, Tantiusques and Leadmine Wildlife Area Loop, Nipmuck Trail: Breakneck Pond to Perry Hill Road, Breakneck Brook Wildlife Management Area Loop, Thompson Family Forever Wild Preserve Loop Trail. The lake boasts four beaches, though all are privately run. The drawdown will be managed to restore the normal water surface elevation by early April 2023. Class I, II, The rest of the shoreline is made up entirely of residential properties. The west bank of the river has what looks to be a wall made of The staff cares about it so much, the purchase of a meal in the restaurant earns three used books to take home for free, totaling 100,000 books a year. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. We spent several hours by Mashapaug, at a nice area with picnic tables and barbecues. You can spend III whitewater rapids on a scenic stretch of river suitable for inner However, a control structure can also allow water to flow north into Hamilton Reservoir and onward into the upper Quinebaug system. 4 bedrooms, House Park here and carefully descend the steep trail down to the We visited in Autumn and it was absolutely lovely. Surrounding by the giant hills of Fairfield County, this picture-perfect spot is breathtaking. A Great State Park for Swimming, Kayaking and Picnicing. You'll find this amazing state park and its swimming holes off of Connecticut State Route 171. area on the right. Mashapaug sits comfortably in the northeastern part of Connecticut, near the border with Massachusetts making it a vacation hot spot for visitors from both states. The river runs parallel Park here and follow the obvious train along the You could leave a bicycle or car in Canton and It is also home to the Litchfield Hills Rowing Club and two public beaches. This trail was really beautiful, but there is a point where it splits off to the actual trail from the logging road and we totally missed the split off. You can even scuba dive in the crisp, clear water. People can also swim in the lake. Passed 6 others along the trail. 50-75%, Lakefront Living Realty, LLC63 Lakeview Avenue, Mansfield, MA02048(508) 377-7167, 2023 Lakefront Living International, LLC, Each office independently owned and operated, CT Dept of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP). Follow interstate 84 to Exit 73 then follow RT Two state records were set from fish caught at Mashapaug Lake. 1 PHOTO 2 Lat/Lon Lat: If you walk the logging trail it is beautiful and leads to water, and I would say its about half the length of the regular trail and very safe and good for kids, but if youre looking for an actual nature trail walk just be careful and make sure you split off to the actual trail like we didnt. This A submerged rock formation PHOTO who will require you to wear a life jacket. 41.54894 Lon: -72.42442 Source: Measured Accuracy: Exact Lover's Leap State Park is particularly spectacular, featuring 127 acres of land in New Milford, and a number of trails to choose from. back to the Satan's Kingdom park. feet) varies substantially the right. Popular winter activities at the lake include ice skating, ice fishing, ice boating, and cross-country skiing. In Willimantic, take RT Across from the paved boat launch in the public parking lot off Route 272, you'll spot the most adorable white hut, sitting serenely by the shore. Once you get to the pond there are fire pits and picnic spots scattered throughout. beaches and low angle sloping rock outcrops along the perimeter of the At 1.2 miles, this paved road Fishing is offered year round, while in the summer visitors can enjoy a swim. Real slippery and hard with a dog on a leash! This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Here are the most noteworthy lakes in the state of Connecticut. Mashapaug Lake is located in the town of Union and is a natural lake within the Thames River Drainage Basin. Few hikers. trailer markers weren't the best but not awful. It's shallow and uber fun to walk around. It is also home to the Gardner Lake State Park and the Hopemead State Park. This is a beautiful, deep lake that is Get here early to claim your picnic spot. Written by Shandley McMurray Updated Jan 31, 2022. The park itself, on the other hand, is just shy of 10 acres in size. Again, these are open seasonally. Take a right on RT 171 East to the park entrance. take RT 34 west to toward Shelton. swimming". At 1.5 miles, cross a small bridge into the children. The largest surface area can be found in Lower Bolton Lake, which boasts 175 acres. another area, upstream of Diana's Pool that may be called England's Find vacation rentals near West Thompson Lake. intersection of RT 6 and RT 47 in Woodbury, follow RT 47 north toward http://www.farmingtonrivertubing.com/ Those who Technically a reservoir, this Danbury lake was created by Connecticut Light & Power in the late 1920s. CAUTION These top-rated tourist attractions are sure to please every member of your traveling party. This area No wonder they named it "Stillwater.". Seems like a cool place to camp by the water! There are three beautiful lakes to choose from, two available by car and a third that's accessible only via a hike. We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location. Walking Tours from $25.00 per adult Tour of Historic Fenway Park, America's Most Beloved Ballpark 704 Recommended Sporting Events from $33.34 per adult Wine and Wine Jelly-Sauce Tasting on Plymouth Bay 17 Recommended from $13.18 per adult FLESH at Mystic Dark Room 32 Recommended Theater Shows from $112.00 per adult Downtown Mystic Ghost Tour 20 i was looking for a place we can come for the day and picnic, grill, and swim.. relax and hang out is there any openings for tomorrow?? Restaurants near Bigelow Hollow State Park: Bigelow Hollow State Park, Union: Address, Phone Number, Bigelow Hollow State Park Reviews: 4/5. Just past the Chaplin People have no respectt for the environment. 14 oz. Only non-motorised boats are permitted on the lake, so most fish from a rowboat or a canoe. Bigelow Hollow State Park (Union) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. If the air is still, the "lake" turns itself into a mirror reflecting a kaleidoscope of autumn's most vibrant colors. in the Farmington River. 18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Connecticut, 17 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Hartford, CT, 15 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in New Haven, CT, Connecticut in Pictures: 26 Beautiful Places to Photograph, 11 Best Places for Camping in Connecticut, 16 Top-Rated Weekend Getaways in Connecticut, 17 Top-Rated Things to Do in Litchfield, CT, New Haven in Pictures: 20 Beautiful Places to Photograph, 12 Top-Rated Things to Do on Fuerteventura, 11 Best Hikes on the Big Island of Hawaii, 22 Best Places to Visit in the United States, 21 Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in the World. It is also home to two state parks that offer excellent hiking, biking and camping. This trail is not difficult however there are rocks and roots on the path. Follow River Road about 1 1/2 Parking is ample & it's less congested than the main area at the end of the main road. the Saugatuck River. And life on this quiet lake is best enjoyed at a slow pace. Gardner Lake State Park is where you'll find the well-loved Gardner Lake. Swimming and sunbathing are arguably the most popular things to do at the beach. Enjoy hiking and cycling along the trails in the park and on top of Mansfield Hollow Dam. [8], Many species of fish reside within Mashapaug Lake. $190 per night. before the RT 202 bridge in Canton. The lake is almost completely enclosed by the mountain, resulting in some spectacular scenery. Although technically a massive pond, this expansive waterway measures over 85 acres. There is a small parking Each of these boasts a boat launch, making it easy to set sail for a day spent fishing, swimming, water skiing, or windsurfing on this fun-filled reservoir. Insider's tip: Don't miss the sandbar near Newton. Fees are $15 ($6 after 4pm) on weekends/holidays and $10 on weekdays. Hop Brook Lake is shouldered by the towns of Middlebury, Waterbury, and Naugatuck. wading. Originally called lake Wabbaquasset (translated to "place where cattails grow") by the Nipumuc Indians, this lovely lake has undergone multiple name changes (including Ruby Lake, after the gems were located in nearby hills). PHOTO1 scattered boulders. drop into a narrow gorge. Bigelow Pond. Once in the park, follow the park road past Bigelow Pond on The parking pass for the Connecticut state parks could be a lot easier to use though. Paved boat launches are available for those interested in fishing from a boat. The drawdown will be managed to restore the normal water surface elevation by early April 2023. very easy to find. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 6 min to complete. Town(s): Find the perfect Connecticut vacation rental on Tripping.com. Copyright 2023 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. Within the lake is the Minnie Island State Park, which is known to be Connecticuts smallest state park. the woods leads to the largest rock outcropping PHOTO There are also some commercial properties around the lake, while the Lake Waramaug State Park sits at the very northwest corner of it. The views to the water are amazing, and varied depending on what you like. parking lot will be on your right; do not park on the road. Swimming Allowed, No Restrictions. Mashapaug Lake (2 of 2) Union Map Map with Aerial Photo McDonough Lake Barkhamsted and New Hartford Map Map with Aerial Photo . Mashapaug Lake boasts state records for largemouth bass and channel catfish. 4. and this rule is enforced at times. you may see cars parked on along the roadside; if the lot is full when This is a popular trail for birding, cross-country skiing, and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Also, be sure to try out Lake Waramaug, a 656-acre lake that sits partly in Kent, Washington, and Warren, all in Litchfield County, Connecticut, tucked inside of Lake Waramaug State Park. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. This 80 hectare lake sits in the northeast corner of Connecticut. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. stream that has carved out a nice hole in a bend in the Weekeepeemee Would have appreciated a heads up with how many inclines there are! Do not attempt to climb up or walk above In Bigelow Hollow State Park, off Route 171, 1.3 miles east of Route 190. Breathtaking Crescent Lake lies within Sunset Rock State Park in the town of Southington just southwest of Hartford, Connecticut. forks to the right, stay on RT 47 and cross over an iron bridge. When it's time for a break, choose a spot with the best vista to enjoy your meal al fresco. Fire house, turn right onto Diana's Pool road. Bordered by the towns of Salem, Montville, and Bozrah in Connecticut's southeast, the lake covers 528 acres. Run by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), the lake is well stocked with walleye, bull head, and catfish, making it a popular spot to fish. Entry and Parking: Non-residents must purchase daily beach passes ($13 for kids, $19 for adults) at the beach gate in Danbury or at the Parks and Recreation in the other towns. Lake Lillinonahs 72 kilometre shoreline is a beautiful wooded area, making it a very tranquil lake. Species: (T LMB SMB CP YP S WA) Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday April-last day February. Its vast expanse is hugged by two large state parks, Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest. 1 which is great for sun bathing and taking in the view of the Topping the list of Connecticut's most beautiful lakes to visit is Candlewood Lake. Its normal surface elevation is 706 feet. Lots of water. One of Connecticut's best state parks. Second only to Candlewood Lake in size, the 1,900-acre Lake Lillinonah can be found in Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven counties in Connecticut's northeast. Try one of our natural swimming holes in Connecticut that are a less costly swimming option. Burr Pond is primed for boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, sailing, and canoeing. immediately before the dam. Plus, it offers easy access to enjoy water sports such as sailing, kayaking, fishing, and canoeing. The Departmen t of Energy & Environmental Protection is working to ensure that all visitors have access to the many outdoor recreational opportunities available at Connecticut State Parks and Forests.. Lake Mashapaug: TYPE: Lake: DESCRIPTION: Swimming in an unsupervised, bucolic area of a very large, clearwater lake. large stones, which may have been the old bridge abutment. Tolland, Size: edge of the water. ENGLAND'S BRIDGE [ENGL]: There is The lake is stocked with brook, brown and rainbow trout, making it a popular fishing destination. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Other popular activities include, rowing, swimming, water skiing (America's oldest water ski club originated here), fishing (including ice fishing), and camping. Bit of a hike to the lake. This reservoir, which was created by a dam in the Saugatuck River, provides water to neighboring towns, so swimming isn't permitted here. Both lakes have nice boat launches with dock facilities so passengers don't have to get wet. Sandy Beach on the East Shore Road is a fun, family-friendly swimming area. right at the second 4-way intersection onto Foothills Rd. The lake's recreation area comes complete with a sandy beach that kids and adults will love. Because there are so many small access points scattered 13 guests is there a number to call to ask information?? I followed this one counter clockwise. Mashapaug Lake, which lies within the Thames River Drainage Basin, is an angler's dream. shockingly cold, even in the summertime as it comes from the bottom of House 8 guests 3 bedrooms. "About two hundred yards further down the road, the river on As long as you can figure that out though, the park is worth the visit. Further downstream there are many small falls, Jacuzzis and A mere 14 miles east of Hartford, these peaceful waterways offer a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of city life. The lake itself is made up of three bays named First, Second, and Third. The bottom of the lake consists of sand, gravel, rubble, boulders and ledge in shallow areas; organic muck in deeper areas. unmarked park. Where are two other natural swimming holes in Connecticut? Located in western Connecticut near the New York border, beautiful Squantz Pond is bordered by the verdant Pootatuck State Forest on the west and the recreational area of Squantz Pond State Park on the south. Overall a great 6 mile hike though! charges for tube and life jacket rental and a bus ride back. Take a right onto Howe Ave, this is RT 110 North. Note that some readers have reported that The Fall Tracker said the peak colors could be seen around the CT-MA border and we felt that the Bigelow Hollow State Park fit our interests ! Around this island are signs: "PRIVATE PROPERTY" Nestled in Stillwater Pond State Park, the still, clear water of this 100-acre "pond" perfectly reflects its remarkable wooded surroundings. On Routes 171 & 197 at the road sign entrance to Bigelow Hollow State Park in Union CT. Trip date is June 2012. Spanning a mere 110 miles from east to west and 70 miles from north to south, Connecticut is far from America's biggest state. Crawling* all over the shore and islands causing terrible erosion, lots of trees and vegetation being lost. AM, you should have no problem finding a space. The lake has a maximum depth of 39.5 feet, and an average depth of 15 feet. Water skiing and jet skiing are also very popular. We needed bug spray for the May flies. all day in the water! With over 9,000 acres of forests, lakes, and trails, this state park offers Why not zip yourself into a tent at night. Its normal surface elevation is 706 feet. Mashapaug Lake, Union (287 acres) P H S L. Bass Management Lake / Walleye Lake. A 1.5 ft. drawdown will commence on or about November 1, 2022. 8 bedrooms, House Not room for many cars at this entrance (maybe 3?). Squantz Pond is located in the town of New Fairfield at the west end of the state near New York. Beautiful wooded trail to the pond for a nice dip. Small pool at the miles to what appears to be the end at "T" intersection. for oncoming cars. A mere 0.88 of an acre, this park is famous for being Connecticut's smallest state park and the only island in Gardner Lake. 190 north. There's limited parking so we had to walk a bit, but that gave us the chance to enjoy the park more. But that would be my number one concern. intersection, bear left to remain on Lyons Plains Rd. Weekeepeemee is a small stream and water levels can vary greatly. shoreline. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. large pond or more accurately a small lake. The lake is popular for boating and fishing. 2 guests Get more stories delivered right to your email. CAUTION [3], Mashapaug Lake is natural in origin, but the construction of two dams has raised its water level. sections of the river where you can swim. Today, you'll find the shores lined with pretty homes and the area's lone strand, named Sandy Beach. Known as Lower, Middle, and Upper Bolton Lakes, the three collectively span over 340 acres. Mashapaug Lake is bigger and holds the record for the largest bass caught in the state. Click to visit this lake's association site! Access for Persons with Disabilities . The 335 hectare lake was created by the Samuel P. Senior dam, providing water for its surrounding towns. Airline Trail, a biking & hiking recreational trail. For superb picnicking and hiking opportunities, head for Kettletown State Park on the east shore. At approximately 1 mile, take a You'll love the shady forested setting that looks like it came out of a storybook. Have you ever been swimming at this swimming spot? Bigelow Hollow State Park, 298 Bigelow Hollow Rd, Union, CT 06076, USA, Natalie is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves uncovering new places along the East Coast. The conservation center also offers a fascinating museum about the areas diverse wildlife and 40 miles of trails through woodlands and wetlands for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. Mashapaug Lake is fed by Wells Brook and several intermittent streams. This is a really beautiful trail, a bit Mashapaug Lake Location: 298 Bigelow Hollow Rd, Union, CT 06076 About: This is one of the lakes in CT, surrounded by a state park for your hiking and camping enjoyment. Can't get enough of the lake? Weather Forecast Monday 4/10/2023 75F 39F WSW 6 MPH 12 3 6 9 12 3 6 9 Hourly Wind Tuesday 4/11/2023 70F 53F WNW 12 MPH 12 3 6 9 12 3 6 9 Hourly Wind Wednesday the police will occasionally patrol this swimming hole and may issue you could use your own tubes and life jackets. Park, see a sign on the left for the trail to the falls, and a parking It has incredibly clear water with lots of shallow water near the shore - ideal for kids - and deeper water for adults. Follow the signs for "Rock Island" PHOTO Scenic waterfall Where is another other state park in Connecticut? This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Lake Waramaugs shoreline is developed with houses, cottages and boathouses. Contact: nclunan@onlyinyourstate.com. The two state parks (Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest) allow lake visitors to go hiking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and camping. It's about a 15 minute walk to the large rock.. and may issue fines. Though state parks are not usually included on our website, this spot is particularly beautiful and unique. The State of Connecticut DEP Others who'd prefer to admire the scenic water views from dry land can enjoy the numerous hiking trails that weave their way along the shore. Fans of the outdoors won't want to leave Lake Waramaug, which is serenely located in one of Connecticut's best state parks, Lake Waramaug State Park. The north end of the lake is a protected area thanks to its large array of bird species. Great trail, very peaceful and a good workout. Go straight at the first 4-way intersection then take a What hotels are near Bigelow Hollow State Park? Unknown Only saw three other people on the trail. Park here and walk down River Road, you Same picture cropped. Valley Forge Rd. With 86 miles of useable shoreline, 10 marinas, and multiple boat launches, the lake offers plenty of spots for visitors to set up camp for the day. Watch out for the occasional kayakers rowing along. The brook is in here that say "no Alternatively, launch your own boat at Squantz Cove State Boat Launch in New Fairfield or Lattins Cove State Boat Launch in Danbury. The fishing maps app include HD lake depth contours, along with advanced features found in Fish Finder / Gps Chart Plotter systems, turning your device into a Depth Finder. Insider's tip: Take care where you step when visiting during October. acres The shoreline is mostly wooded with some residences clustered on the northern an western shores. It is the USAs third smallest state, though it has a diverse range of geography ranging from rolling mountains to sea level beaches. The largest lake in the state, this manmade beauty is 16 miles long and 8.4 square miles in size.