Fresh and Clean:
* Airy: Suggests a light, refreshing scent.
* Crisp: A sharp, clean, invigorating smell.
* Clean: Straightforward and unpolluted.
* Sparkling: Associated with a bright, pure scent.
* Aquatic: A general term for a fresh, water-like smell.
Earthy and Natural:
* Musty: A slightly damp, earthy smell, often associated with older lakes.
* Earthy: A grounded, organic scent.
* Mineral: A hint of the rocks and soil beneath the water.
* Peaty: A smoky, earthy smell associated with lakes with peat bogs.
* Boggy: Similar to peaty, but with a slightly more pungent, damp quality.
Sweet and Floral:
* Floral: Some lakes have a subtly sweet smell, often from blooming water lilies or other aquatic plants.
* Honeyed: A rich, sweet, nectar-like scent.
* Sweet: A general term for a pleasant, not overly strong, sweetness.
Unusual or Negative:
* Stagnant: A heavy, almost putrid smell associated with polluted or still water.
* Sulfurous: A pungent, rotten egg smell sometimes found near sulfur springs.
* Algal: A green, almost fishy smell associated with excessive algae growth.
* Musty: A stale, damp smell that can sometimes occur with algae or decaying matter.
Remember that the specific smell of a lake can vary greatly depending on:
* Time of year: Different seasons bring different scents.
* Water conditions: Pollution, algae blooms, and depth can affect the smell.
* Surrounding environment: Trees, soil, and other nearby features can influence the scent.
When writing, consider the specific lake and its surroundings to choose the most appropriate adjectives for a realistic and evocative description.