Lake Crescent

One more place to enjoy near Olympic National Park in Washington

Lake Crescent

Lake Crescent, a stunning lake formed many millennia ago through the slow movement of glaciers, boasts remarkable clarity and is adorned with magnificent features sculpted by icy forces. With depths reaching 624 feet at certain spots, it stands as a testament to the power of nature’s transformations. As the glacial ice receded, it bestowed upon the landscape a striking valley that gradually filled with the mesmerizing waters of Lake Crescent. Many visitors find themselves captivated by its breathtaking beauty, often using terms like “beautiful” and “amazing” to describe this enchanting section of the park.

The popular spot offers a range of activities like hiking, boating, and camping. You can enjoy the protected waters that are home to unique fish species called Beardslee and Crescenti trout, found nowhere else in the world. Additionally, there are various hiking trails you can explore. For example, the hike to Marymere Falls is a round trip of less than a mile and takes you to a magnificent 90-foot-tall waterfall. If you prefer an easier trail, you can try the Moments in Time loop trail, which is approximately 0.6 miles long and allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the forest and lake. For those seeking more challenging hikes, there’s the Mount Storm King trail, a steep 2.2-mile climb with switchbacks that takes you 2,000 feet up. Another option is the Pyramid Peak trail, a 3 ½-mile uphill trek that leads to a World War II spotting tower.