Which Great Lake is the smallest by surface area?

Lake Erie is indeed the smallest of the Great Lakes when measured by surface area. It covers an area of approximately 9,910 square miles, making it significantly smaller than the other Great Lakes. In comparison, Lake Superior, the largest, has a surface area of about 31,700 square miles, while Lake Huron and Lake Michigan also have larger surface areas—approximately 23,000 square miles and 22,300 square miles, respectively. The relatively shallow depth of Lake Erie contributes to its smaller surface area, as geological and hydrological factors have influenced the formation of the Great Lakes over time, resulting in varying sizes and depths. Understanding these characteristics helps clarify why Lake Erie stands out as the smallest in the group.