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Shortlist these family-friendly lake resorts across the US and Canada for spacious rooms, flexible dining, and water-first fun. Our 2026 guide spotlights properties with kid-approved programming, bundled activity value, and seasonal depth, so toddlers, teens, and grandparents all find their sweet spot by the shore. Selections span all price tiers and regions, including The Coeur d’Alene Resort’s floating boardwalk and holiday magic.
Family travel is surging, and lakeside resorts meet that demand with calmer waters, nature immersion, and the structure families need. We curated this list using family-specific criteria, then added practical notes on best-for age ranges, price tiers, seasonal strengths, and booking tips. Expect crisp comparisons, trusted stats, and real examples that help you book with confidence for 2026.
Families are traveling together at record levels, and lakeside stays deliver a rare mix of calm water, outdoor freedom, and resort structure. A growing 92% of parents plan to travel with their kids this year, which amplifies demand for destination experiences that balance playtime with practical comforts Best Version Media. Lakes offer easy-entry beaches, protected coves for paddling, and shoreline trails that invite grandparents to join in without needing to gear up.
Kidfluence shapes the short list. Eighty-one percent of families consult their children on where to go, and 55% say those opinions heavily influence the final pick Duck Abroad. Our selections surface resorts with visible kids’ programming, free or bundled watercraft, and second-layer activities like indoor pools and arcades for rainy days.
Budget pressure is real, with average annual family travel spend now around $8,052 and 73% citing affordability as a top challenge SYTA and Travel Weekly. Resorts with kitchenettes, all-inclusive meal plans, or bundled gear help control costs. We prioritized properties that scale across ages, from toddler splash zones to teen-ready adventures, and that offer both summer water sports and shoulder or winter season depth.
These properties pair classic waterfront traditions with kid-forward programming and easy road-trip access for East Coast families.
Historic elegance on Otsego Lake meets all-ages fun. Spend mornings on the lake, then walk to the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Kids can try paddling while grandparents enjoy porch time with lake views. Dining is diverse and flexible, and the village setting adds rainy-day museums.
A storied Grand Dame on Lake George with multiple pools, a private island setting, and activities that run from boat tours to lakeside games. Families can spread out in suites, while kids join crafts or dockside play and parents enjoy spa or golf time.
Four distinct inns on Lake Winnipesaukee give families choice. Expect pontoon and kayak rentals, s’mores by the water, and easy strolls to ice cream. Larger rooms and two-bedroom layouts help with nap schedules and spreading out.
A classic Lake Champlain retreat with cottage-style lodging, lawn games, and a deep lineup of kids’ activities. Sprawling acreage and a long family legacy create a relaxed rhythm for multigenerational stays, from paddling to nature walks. Basin Harbor spans 700 acres and has been operated by the Beach family since 1886 Great Family Vacations.
One of America’s signature all-inclusive family resorts with a camp-like daily schedule, shows, and activities on Lake Teedyuskung. Age-tiered programming keeps kids engaged while parents recharge. Multi-bedroom guest homes at The Springs add privacy and kitchen space. Woodloch operates on an all-inclusive model that families value for predictability FamilyVacationist.
From Great Lakes breezes to classic northwoods cabins, these picks blend water time with weatherproof fun.
A Minnesota staple with golf for parents, sailing and paddling for kids, and lodging that runs from hotel rooms to multi-bedroom cottages. The sandy beach and calm bays work well for younger swimmers, while teens tackle water sports.
On Gull Lake with golf, a spa, and plenty of beach time. Family suites and cabin options help groups stay together. Expect classic resort activities by day and s’mores by night.
A Lake Geneva favorite with boat rentals, lakeside paths, and access to nearby attractions. Parents can slip to Avani Spa while kids enjoy pool time or board games in common spaces.
Set on Lake Michigan with a sweeping beach and a massive indoor waterpark that keeps vacations humming even in rain or cold. Multi-room suites and kitchenettes support family rhythms, and the lakefront path is stroller friendly. Blue Harbor’s oceanfront feel and indoor waterpark are key draws for families Fora Travel.
Lake Erie shoreline plus front-row access to Cedar Point’s rides. Balance theme-park thrills with lake breezes and beach time. Family rooms and walkable dining simplify logistics.
Mountain lakes add big-sky views, crisp evenings, and four-season action that turns summer swim trips into year-round traditions.
A Pacific Northwest classic with 338 guest rooms, a world-renowned golf course featuring the only Floating Green accessible by boat, and a nearly three-quarter-mile floating boardwalk that wraps a 372-slip marina. The boardwalk is the longest of its kind, creating a signature family stroll with skyline-and-lake views.
Summer brings paddleboarding, kayaking, parasailing, and boat rentals, while winter turns magical with the Journey to the North Pole Cruise. The annual Holiday Light Show features over 1.5 million lights and more than 250 displays.
Dining spans seven to twelve venues across seasons, including Beverly’s for elevated Northwest cuisine and Dockside for family-friendly meals and famous Gooey desserts. Parents recharge in the 30,000-square-foot spa while kids splash in lakefront pool areas or hop a wooden boat taxi to the golf course and beach. The floating boardwalk is detailed in the resort’s family guide, and the light show scale is widely documented.
A 2,000-acre, family-owned, all-inclusive dude ranch on the shore of a 30-mile lake. Mornings start with horseback rides, afternoons switch to sailing, paddleboarding, and lakeside relaxation. Operating since 1945, it blends Western tradition with water-first play Great Family Vacations.
Rustic luxury in a high-country setting where families unplug. Guided fishing, horseback riding, and paddling anchor the day, with cozy lodge evenings by the fire. Intimate scale helps staff personalize activities for various ages.
Private beach living on Lake Tahoe with upscale dining, a spa, and championship golf. Expect morning yoga, afternoon crafts, and evening s’mores, plus four-season mountain access nearby InsideHook.
Lakes across the Ozarks, Georgia’s rolling hills, and Kentucky’s vast waterways deliver flexible price tiers and big-nature energy.
A 4,600-acre wilderness resort created by the founder of Bass Pro Shops. Choose from cabins to grand lodges, explore nature centers, and spend full days on Table Rock Lake with fishing, paddling, and boating Big Cedar Lodge.
A lakeside castle with pools, spa services, and quick access to Branson shows. Families balance shows, lake time, and relaxed evenings with s’mores.
Southern luxury set about 75 miles east of Atlanta with lake activities, golf, spa time, and dedicated children’s programs. Canoes by day, s’mores by night keep the rhythm balanced InsideHook.
A budget-friendly launchpad on a giant lake known for houseboating. Families split days between hiking, shoreline picnics, and time on the water. The lake spans over 60,000 acres with about 1,200 miles of shoreline Great Family Vacations.
From national park classics to SoCal mountain water, the West blends wild scenery with family-friendly pace.
A quick mountain escape from Southern California with a private beach, spa, and seasonal lake activities. Families split time between paddling and village strolls, then wind down on the deck.
A volcanic wonder with the deepest blue you will ever see. Families hike rim trails, join ranger programs, and relax in historic lodge settings. Pick calm, guided experiences for younger kids and add longer hikes for teens Sunset.
A historic lodge in a nearly million-acre national park with crystal-clear water, guided kayak tours, narrated boat rides, and a tech-free, old-school vibe. Roosevelt Cottages add family privacy near the lake Great Family Vacations.
Canada’s alpine lakes offer towering scenery, wildlife, and four-season depth, often with different pricing structures and currency considerations. Passports are required for US travelers, and families should review seasonal road access and park permits where applicable.
An icon of the Canadian Rockies where families paddle a turquoise lake in summer and embrace ice skating and snow play in winter. On-property dining simplifies mealtimes, and trailheads start just outside the door.
A historic 100-plus-acre resort with 2,000 feet of waterfront on Gloucester Pool. Supervised kids’ activities, a 25-foot water trampoline, and stand-alone cottages with kitchens keep costs and routines in check Severn Lodge and Discover Muskoka.
Match resort offerings to your kids’ ages and your group’s energy level. Since 81% of families consult children on where to go, bring kids into the planning to lock in activities they actually want Duck Abroad. Toddlers do best with shallow beach entries, zero-entry pools, single-story layouts, and easy stroller paths. Teens gravitate to wake sports, climbing, or guided trail time.
Decide on all-inclusive versus à la carte. Bundled meals and activities can simplify budgeting, especially when affordability is a top concern for 73% of families Travel Weekly. For longer trips, look for suites, cabins, or cottages with kitchens to control costs and keep nap and feeding schedules on track. Finally, weigh access. Drive-to lakes eliminate airfare, while fly-to destinations should be within reasonable distance of a major airport to reduce transfer time for kids.
Water activity essentials:
UV reflection off the water intensifies exposure, so reapply often and consider reef-safe formulas where appropriate Western River.
Outdoor layers matter at elevation and by the water. Pack bug spray, hiking shoes, a warm fleece, and a light rain jacket. Dry bags and waterproof phone cases protect electronics on boats and kayaks Tide Up Boat Rentals. Bring books, travel games, or tablets for quiet evenings, and check what your resort provides so you do not overpack beach towels or basic sand toys Trailside Structures.
Summer is peak, with limited availability for larger cabins and connecting suites. Families targeting prime July and August weeks should book 6 to 12 months in advance to secure preferred layouts and lake proximity Donner Lake Village. Shoulder seasons in late spring and early fall often deliver meaningful savings and fewer crowds without giving up core lake fun Heath’s Resort.
All-inclusive models can offer better overall value by reducing daily à la carte costs for meals, watercraft, and kids’ programs. Review cancellation policies and consider travel insurance for complex, multi-home or multigenerational itineraries. Direct booking often unlocks package perks and room-placement control, while third-party sites may offer price comparisons but less flexibility for special requests.
All ages can enjoy lake resorts if you match amenities to their needs. Infants and toddlers benefit from zero-entry pools, shallow swim zones, and in-room kitchens. Teens seek bigger adventures like wake sports and trail hikes.
Lakes have calmer waters without ocean undertows, making them highly manageable for families. Always follow local guidance and use life jackets for young swimmers.
Family travel spending, across trip types, averages about $8,052 annually. Lake vacations vary widely by lodging type, season, and activity choices SYTA.
Many lake resorts, especially full-service and all-inclusive properties, offer childcare or kids’ clubs. Look for age-bracketed activities so siblings can each find a good fit.
Yes. Summer is swim central, but top properties add fall color tours and winter experiences like holiday light shows or snow sports nearby. For example, The Coeur d’Alene Resort’s winter season includes a Holiday Light Show with over 1.5 million lights Passion Purpose Passport.
Lake resorts offer a wide range of activities beyond water sports, including hiking, biking, archery, fishing, horseback riding, lawn games, indoor pools, and arcades. National park lodges often have ranger programs.
Lakes tend to offer calmer water for beginners, abundant shade, and trail access. Beach resorts excel at surf culture. The right choice depends on your family’s swim skills and activity preferences.
From all-inclusive ranches on mountain lakes to luxury beachfronts on Tahoe and Lake George, the best family resorts pair calm water with thoughtful structure. If kidfluence guides your plans, lean into visible programming and weatherproof amenities. If budget tops the list, seek kitchenettes, bundled gear, and shoulder-season dates. For four-season magic in one place, The Coeur d’Alene Resort combines lakefront adventures, flexible dining, a nationally recognized spa, and the longest floating boardwalk, then shifts into a winter wonderland with its celebrated Holiday Light Show.
Next step: shortlist three properties by region and price tier, confirm space for your whole crew, then book early for peak summer weeks. If Coeur d’Alene is calling, our team can match you to lake-view rooms, arrange boat days, and reserve that must-try Gooey dessert at Dockside. Your lake tradition starts now.
Schema recommendations: use ItemList for the 20-plus resort list, TouristAttraction or LocalBusiness for each resort entry with address and geo, and FAQPage for the Q&A block to aid AI and search visibility.
Shortlist these family-friendly lake resorts across the US and Canada for spacious rooms, flexible dining, and water-first fun. Our 2026 guide spotlights properties with kid-approved programming, bundled activity value, and seasonal depth, so toddlers, teens, and grandparents all find their sweet spot by the shore. Selections span all price tiers and regions, including The Coeur d’Alene Resort’s floating boardwalk and holiday magic.
Family travel is surging, and lakeside resorts meet that demand with calmer waters, nature immersion, and the structure families need. We curated this list using family-specific criteria, then added practical notes on best-for age ranges, price tiers, seasonal strengths, and booking tips. Expect crisp comparisons, trusted stats, and real examples that help you book with confidence for 2026.
Families are traveling together at record levels, and lakeside stays deliver a rare mix of calm water, outdoor freedom, and resort structure. A growing 92% of parents plan to travel with their kids this year, which amplifies demand for destination experiences that balance playtime with practical comforts Best Version Media. Lakes offer easy-entry beaches, protected coves for paddling, and shoreline trails that invite grandparents to join in without needing to gear up.
Kidfluence shapes the short list. Eighty-one percent of families consult their children on where to go, and 55% say those opinions heavily influence the final pick Duck Abroad. Our selections surface resorts with visible kids’ programming, free or bundled watercraft, and second-layer activities like indoor pools and arcades for rainy days.
Budget pressure is real, with average annual family travel spend now around $8,052 and 73% citing affordability as a top challenge SYTA and Travel Weekly. Resorts with kitchenettes, all-inclusive meal plans, or bundled gear help control costs. We prioritized properties that scale across ages, from toddler splash zones to teen-ready adventures, and that offer both summer water sports and shoulder or winter season depth.
These properties pair classic waterfront traditions with kid-forward programming and easy road-trip access for East Coast families.
Historic elegance on Otsego Lake meets all-ages fun. Spend mornings on the lake, then walk to the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Kids can try paddling while grandparents enjoy porch time with lake views. Dining is diverse and flexible, and the village setting adds rainy-day museums.
A storied Grand Dame on Lake George with multiple pools, a private island setting, and activities that run from boat tours to lakeside games. Families can spread out in suites, while kids join crafts or dockside play and parents enjoy spa or golf time.
Four distinct inns on Lake Winnipesaukee give families choice. Expect pontoon and kayak rentals, s’mores by the water, and easy strolls to ice cream. Larger rooms and two-bedroom layouts help with nap schedules and spreading out.
A classic Lake Champlain retreat with cottage-style lodging, lawn games, and a deep lineup of kids’ activities. Sprawling acreage and a long family legacy create a relaxed rhythm for multigenerational stays, from paddling to nature walks. Basin Harbor spans 700 acres and has been operated by the Beach family since 1886 Great Family Vacations.
One of America’s signature all-inclusive family resorts with a camp-like daily schedule, shows, and activities on Lake Teedyuskung. Age-tiered programming keeps kids engaged while parents recharge. Multi-bedroom guest homes at The Springs add privacy and kitchen space. Woodloch operates on an all-inclusive model that families value for predictability FamilyVacationist.
From Great Lakes breezes to classic northwoods cabins, these picks blend water time with weatherproof fun.
A Minnesota staple with golf for parents, sailing and paddling for kids, and lodging that runs from hotel rooms to multi-bedroom cottages. The sandy beach and calm bays work well for younger swimmers, while teens tackle water sports.
On Gull Lake with golf, a spa, and plenty of beach time. Family suites and cabin options help groups stay together. Expect classic resort activities by day and s’mores by night.
A Lake Geneva favorite with boat rentals, lakeside paths, and access to nearby attractions. Parents can slip to Avani Spa while kids enjoy pool time or board games in common spaces.
Set on Lake Michigan with a sweeping beach and a massive indoor waterpark that keeps vacations humming even in rain or cold. Multi-room suites and kitchenettes support family rhythms, and the lakefront path is stroller friendly. Blue Harbor’s oceanfront feel and indoor waterpark are key draws for families Fora Travel.
Lake Erie shoreline plus front-row access to Cedar Point’s rides. Balance theme-park thrills with lake breezes and beach time. Family rooms and walkable dining simplify logistics.
Mountain lakes add big-sky views, crisp evenings, and four-season action that turns summer swim trips into year-round traditions.
A Pacific Northwest classic with 338 guest rooms, a world-renowned golf course featuring the only Floating Green accessible by boat, and a nearly three-quarter-mile floating boardwalk that wraps a 372-slip marina. The boardwalk is the longest of its kind, creating a signature family stroll with skyline-and-lake views.
Summer brings paddleboarding, kayaking, parasailing, and boat rentals, while winter turns magical with the Journey to the North Pole Cruise. The annual Holiday Light Show features over 1.5 million lights and more than 250 displays.
Dining spans seven to twelve venues across seasons, including Beverly’s for elevated Northwest cuisine and Dockside for family-friendly meals and famous Gooey desserts. Parents recharge in the 30,000-square-foot spa while kids splash in lakefront pool areas or hop a wooden boat taxi to the golf course and beach. The floating boardwalk is detailed in the resort’s family guide, and the light show scale is widely documented.
A 2,000-acre, family-owned, all-inclusive dude ranch on the shore of a 30-mile lake. Mornings start with horseback rides, afternoons switch to sailing, paddleboarding, and lakeside relaxation. Operating since 1945, it blends Western tradition with water-first play Great Family Vacations.
Rustic luxury in a high-country setting where families unplug. Guided fishing, horseback riding, and paddling anchor the day, with cozy lodge evenings by the fire. Intimate scale helps staff personalize activities for various ages.
Private beach living on Lake Tahoe with upscale dining, a spa, and championship golf. Expect morning yoga, afternoon crafts, and evening s’mores, plus four-season mountain access nearby InsideHook.
Lakes across the Ozarks, Georgia’s rolling hills, and Kentucky’s vast waterways deliver flexible price tiers and big-nature energy.
A 4,600-acre wilderness resort created by the founder of Bass Pro Shops. Choose from cabins to grand lodges, explore nature centers, and spend full days on Table Rock Lake with fishing, paddling, and boating Big Cedar Lodge.
A lakeside castle with pools, spa services, and quick access to Branson shows. Families balance shows, lake time, and relaxed evenings with s’mores.
Southern luxury set about 75 miles east of Atlanta with lake activities, golf, spa time, and dedicated children’s programs. Canoes by day, s’mores by night keep the rhythm balanced InsideHook.
A budget-friendly launchpad on a giant lake known for houseboating. Families split days between hiking, shoreline picnics, and time on the water. The lake spans over 60,000 acres with about 1,200 miles of shoreline Great Family Vacations.
From national park classics to SoCal mountain water, the West blends wild scenery with family-friendly pace.
A quick mountain escape from Southern California with a private beach, spa, and seasonal lake activities. Families split time between paddling and village strolls, then wind down on the deck.
A volcanic wonder with the deepest blue you will ever see. Families hike rim trails, join ranger programs, and relax in historic lodge settings. Pick calm, guided experiences for younger kids and add longer hikes for teens Sunset.
A historic lodge in a nearly million-acre national park with crystal-clear water, guided kayak tours, narrated boat rides, and a tech-free, old-school vibe. Roosevelt Cottages add family privacy near the lake Great Family Vacations.
Canada’s alpine lakes offer towering scenery, wildlife, and four-season depth, often with different pricing structures and currency considerations. Passports are required for US travelers, and families should review seasonal road access and park permits where applicable.
An icon of the Canadian Rockies where families paddle a turquoise lake in summer and embrace ice skating and snow play in winter. On-property dining simplifies mealtimes, and trailheads start just outside the door.
A historic 100-plus-acre resort with 2,000 feet of waterfront on Gloucester Pool. Supervised kids’ activities, a 25-foot water trampoline, and stand-alone cottages with kitchens keep costs and routines in check Severn Lodge and Discover Muskoka.
Match resort offerings to your kids’ ages and your group’s energy level. Since 81% of families consult children on where to go, bring kids into the planning to lock in activities they actually want Duck Abroad. Toddlers do best with shallow beach entries, zero-entry pools, single-story layouts, and easy stroller paths. Teens gravitate to wake sports, climbing, or guided trail time.
Decide on all-inclusive versus à la carte. Bundled meals and activities can simplify budgeting, especially when affordability is a top concern for 73% of families Travel Weekly. For longer trips, look for suites, cabins, or cottages with kitchens to control costs and keep nap and feeding schedules on track. Finally, weigh access. Drive-to lakes eliminate airfare, while fly-to destinations should be within reasonable distance of a major airport to reduce transfer time for kids.
Water activity essentials:
UV reflection off the water intensifies exposure, so reapply often and consider reef-safe formulas where appropriate Western River.
Outdoor layers matter at elevation and by the water. Pack bug spray, hiking shoes, a warm fleece, and a light rain jacket. Dry bags and waterproof phone cases protect electronics on boats and kayaks Tide Up Boat Rentals. Bring books, travel games, or tablets for quiet evenings, and check what your resort provides so you do not overpack beach towels or basic sand toys Trailside Structures.
Summer is peak, with limited availability for larger cabins and connecting suites. Families targeting prime July and August weeks should book 6 to 12 months in advance to secure preferred layouts and lake proximity Donner Lake Village. Shoulder seasons in late spring and early fall often deliver meaningful savings and fewer crowds without giving up core lake fun Heath’s Resort.
All-inclusive models can offer better overall value by reducing daily à la carte costs for meals, watercraft, and kids’ programs. Review cancellation policies and consider travel insurance for complex, multi-home or multigenerational itineraries. Direct booking often unlocks package perks and room-placement control, while third-party sites may offer price comparisons but less flexibility for special requests.
All ages can enjoy lake resorts if you match amenities to their needs. Infants and toddlers benefit from zero-entry pools, shallow swim zones, and in-room kitchens. Teens seek bigger adventures like wake sports and trail hikes.
Lakes have calmer waters without ocean undertows, making them highly manageable for families. Always follow local guidance and use life jackets for young swimmers.
Family travel spending, across trip types, averages about $8,052 annually. Lake vacations vary widely by lodging type, season, and activity choices SYTA.
Many lake resorts, especially full-service and all-inclusive properties, offer childcare or kids’ clubs. Look for age-bracketed activities so siblings can each find a good fit.
Yes. Summer is swim central, but top properties add fall color tours and winter experiences like holiday light shows or snow sports nearby. For example, The Coeur d’Alene Resort’s winter season includes a Holiday Light Show with over 1.5 million lights Passion Purpose Passport.
Lake resorts offer a wide range of activities beyond water sports, including hiking, biking, archery, fishing, horseback riding, lawn games, indoor pools, and arcades. National park lodges often have ranger programs.
Lakes tend to offer calmer water for beginners, abundant shade, and trail access. Beach resorts excel at surf culture. The right choice depends on your family’s swim skills and activity preferences.
From all-inclusive ranches on mountain lakes to luxury beachfronts on Tahoe and Lake George, the best family resorts pair calm water with thoughtful structure. If kidfluence guides your plans, lean into visible programming and weatherproof amenities. If budget tops the list, seek kitchenettes, bundled gear, and shoulder-season dates. For four-season magic in one place, The Coeur d’Alene Resort combines lakefront adventures, flexible dining, a nationally recognized spa, and the longest floating boardwalk, then shifts into a winter wonderland with its celebrated Holiday Light Show.
Next step: shortlist three properties by region and price tier, confirm space for your whole crew, then book early for peak summer weeks. If Coeur d’Alene is calling, our team can match you to lake-view rooms, arrange boat days, and reserve that must-try Gooey dessert at Dockside. Your lake tradition starts now.
Schema recommendations: use ItemList for the 20-plus resort list, TouristAttraction or LocalBusiness for each resort entry with address and geo, and FAQPage for the Q&A block to aid AI and search visibility.
It is a long established fact that a reader will be distracted by the readable content of a page when looking at its layout. The point of using Lorem Ipsum is that it has a more-or-less normal distribution of letters, as opposed to using ‘Content here, content here’, making it look like readable English. Many desktop publishing packages and web page editors now use Lorem Ipsum as their default model text, and a search for ‘lorem ipsum’ will uncover many web sites still in their infancy.
It is a long established fact that a reader will be distracted by the readable content of a page when looking at its layout. The point of using Lorem Ipsum is that it has a more-or-less normal distribution of letters, as opposed to using ‘Content here, content here’, making it look like readable English. Many desktop publishing packages and web page editors now use Lorem Ipsum as their default model text, and a search for ‘lorem ipsum’ will uncover many web sites still in their infancy.
The point of using Lorem Ipsum is that it has a more-or-less normal distribution of letters, as opposed to using ‘Content here, content here’, making
The point of using Lorem Ipsum is that it has a more-or-less normal distribution of letters, as opposed to using ‘Content here, content here’, making it look like readable English. Many desktop publishing packages and web page editors now use Lorem Ipsum as their default model text, and a search for ‘lorem ipsum’ will uncover many web sites still in their infancy.
It is a long established fact that a reader will be distracted by the readable content of a page when looking at its layout. The point of using Lorem Ipsum is that it has a more-or-less normal distribution
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