The depths of the Great Lakes vary significantly among the five lakes:

• Lake Superior is the deepest, with a maximum depth of about 1,333 feet (406 meters) and an average depth of 483 feet (147 meters). It is also the largest by surface area and volume

• Lake Michigan has a maximum depth around 925 feet (282 meters) and an average depth of 279 feet (85 meters)

• Lake Ontario reaches a maximum depth of about 802 feet (244 meters) with an average depth of 283 feet (86 meters)

• Lake Huron has a maximum depth near 750 feet (229 meters) and an average depth of 195 feet (59 meters)

• Lake Erie is the shallowest, with a maximum depth of roughly 210 feet (64 meters) and an average depth of just 62 feet (19 meters)

These depths reflect the geological history of the lakes, including glacial activity and ancient rift valleys, especially for Lake Superior which sits in the Midcontinent Rift System

. In summary, the Great Lakes range from relatively shallow Lake Erie to the very deep Lake Superior, with maximum depths spanning from about 210 feet to over 1,300 feet.