What state is known as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes"?

Minnesota is known as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes" due to its vast number of lakes, which are a prominent feature of the state's geography. In fact, Minnesota has over 11,000 lakes that are larger than 10 acres, making it a well-deserved title. The abundance of lakes is a result of glacial activity that shaped the landscape during the last Ice Age, creating numerous depressions that filled with water. This unique geographical feature contributes to the state’s rich recreational opportunities, tourism, and ecological diversity.

Although both Michigan and Wisconsin have many lakes as well, Minnesota's lakes are historically significant to its identity and culture, making it the state best associated with this particular nickname. New York, while it does have significant bodies of water like the Great Lakes to the northwest and the Hudson River, does not come close to matching Minnesota's number of lakes. Therefore, Minnesota is distinctly recognized for its impressive number of lakes.