Lake Winnipesaukee

Lake Winnipesaukee is the largest lake in the U.S. state of New Hampshire, located in the Lakes Region of the central part of the state. It is renowned for its scenic beauty, complex glacially-carved shoreline, and over 250 islands. The lake is a major hub for tourism, boating, and fishing, serving as a cornerstone of the regional economy and culture.

Geography and Hydrology

The lake occupies portions of Belknap County and Carroll County, nestled within the foothills of the White Mountains. Its irregular shape, featuring a series of deep bays and narrow channels, is a classic result of Pleistocene glaciation. Major inflows include the Gunstock River and the Melvin River, while its primary outflow is the Winnipesaukee River, which feeds into the Merrimack River at Franklin. Notable geographic features include the expansive The Broads, a large open section, and prominent peninsulas like Moultonborough Neck. The lake contains 258 islands, with significant ones being Bear Island, Long Island, and Rattlesnake Island.

History and Etymology

The area has been inhabited for thousands of years by Abenaki peoples, who called the lake something akin to *Wiwininebesaki*, often translated as "the lake of the smiling country" or "the lake between the surrounding hills." European exploration began in the 17th century, with early accounts by figures like Captain John Smith. Settlement increased after the American Revolutionary War, with the first permanent European settler on its shores being Archibald MacGregor near modern-day Wolfeboro in the late 18th century. The lake played a role in early industrial development, supporting mills powered by its outlet. The arrival of the Boston and Maine Railroad in the 19th century transformed it into a popular summer destination for residents of Boston and other northeastern cities.

Ecology and Environment

The lake's watershed encompasses nearly 500 square miles, influencing its water quality. It is classified as an oligotrophic to mesotrophic lake, generally maintaining good clarity. Key fish species include lake trout, smallmouth bass, landlocked salmon, and rainbow smelt. Environmental management is coordinated by agencies like the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services and non-profits such as the Lake Winnipesaukee Association. Challenges include mitigating phosphorus loading to combat eutrophication, managing invasive species like Eurasian watermilfoil, and monitoring the impacts of climate change on water levels and ice-out dates.

Recreation and Tourism

As the centerpiece of New Hampshire's tourism industry, the lake offers extensive recreational opportunities. The MS Mount Washington, a historic paddlewheel and later diesel-powered excursion vessel, has provided scenic tours since 1872. Major boating centers are found in Laconia, Meredith, and Wolfeboro, the latter often cited as the oldest summer resort in America. Annual events include Laconia Motorcycle Week, one of the world's oldest motorcycle rallies, and ice fishing derbies. Resorts such as Church Landing and the Margate Resort line its shores, and the lake is ringed by public beaches and state parks like Ellacoya State Park.

In Popular Culture

Lake Winnipesaukee has been featured in several notable films and television shows, cementing its place in American popular culture. It served as the primary filming location for the 1991 comedy *What About Bob?*, starring Bill Murray and Richard Dreyfuss. The lake was also featured in the 2005 drama *The Last of the Mohicans* and episodes of the television series *M*A*S*H* and *The West Wing*. Furthermore, it is famously mentioned in the Alan Sherman novelty song "Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh," which humorously describes a miserable summer at the fictional Camp Granada.

Category:Lakes of New Hampshire Category:Belknap County, New Hampshire Category:Carroll County, New Hampshire Category:Tourist attractions in New Hampshire