Lake Crescent Washington

Lake Crescent Olympic National Park

Lake Crescent is a deep lake located entirely within Olympic National Park in Clallam County, Washington, United States, approximately 17 miles (27 km) west of Port Angeles, Washington on U.S. Route 101. Lake Crescent Washington is truly one of the most picturesque lakes in the state. It offers fishing, hiking, camping, lodging, kayaking. 

The lake was formed when glaciers carved out deep valleys during the last Ice Age. Initially, the Lake Crescent valley drained into the Indian Creek valley and then into Elwha River. Anadromous fish such as steelhead and coastal cutthroat trout migrated into the valley from lower waters. The maximum depth of 624 feet (190 m), it is officially the second deepest lake in Washington.

Lake Crescent is known for its blue waters and exceptional clarity, caused by a lack of nitrogen in the water which inhibits the growth of algae. It is located in a popular recreational area which is home to a number of trails, including

The Spruce Railroad Trail,

The Pyramid Mountain trail, and

The Barnes Creek trail to Marymere Falls.

The Spruce Railroad Trail follows the grade of what was once the tracks of a logging railroad along the shores of the lake. Following this trail on the north side of the lake, one can find the entrance to an old railroad tunnel as well as "Devils Punch Bowl", a popular swimming and diving area. 

Directions to Lake Crescent : Take U.S. 101 west from Port Angeles. You’ll begin to see the lake at about 15 miles outside of town. There are numerous pull-overs where you can stop and take pictures, or continue to the turn-off for Lake Crescent Lodge, where you can park your car and explore the lake as well as the quaint lodge.