Lake Crescent, an idyllic lake in the Olympic National Park is an ideal place to escape city life. Watch the sunrise and relax by the water, hike the nearby trails, paddle a canoe on the lake, and watch the sunset.

Lake Crescent is an easy day trip from Port Townsend or Port Angeles Washington. While it’s too far for a day trip, Lake Crescent is an ideal weekend getaway from Seattle.

Located on the western side of Olympic National Park it is surrounded by forest in the foothills of the Olympic Mountains. It’s the perfect place to unwind.

There are several hiking trails near Lake Crescent, with one featuring a waterfall. Besides the hikes you also have boating and fishing options at the lake.

From Lake Crescent you can further explore Olympic National Park, from beaches to rainforest, and the Olympic Mountains it is an exceptional place in the Pacific Northwest.

 

 

Lake Crescent Olympic National Park

Lake Crescent Info

With a length of 12 miles (19 km) you have plenty of space for exploring on the water.

Lake Crescent is the second deepest lake in Washington (Lake Chelan is the deepest) and the elevation at the lake is 580 ft (177 m).

Something unique about Lake Crescent is its lack of algae. Most lakes grow algae but Lake Crescent lacks nitrogen, so no algae grows, and the water is crystal clear.

What about swimming, can you swim in Lake Crescent or is it too cold?

Yes, you can swim at Lake Crescent. Probably the best spot is at Fairholme Beach, near Fairholme Campground, boat rentals, a general store and café.

 

 

What kind of fish can you catch at Lake Crescent? You can catch Rainbow trout, Brown trout, Kokanee salmon, and Mountain whitefish. Also, Beardslee and Crescenti trout, two types of fish you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

There are lakeside picnic areas for peaceful outdoor dining in the foothills of the Olympic Mountains.

Do remember to pack your rainy weather gear. After all, rainfall in Olympic peninsula is over 12 inches per year.

For a map of Lake Crescent have a look at the Lake Crescent brochure from National Park Service.

 

 

Olympic National Park Fees

While exploring Olympic National Park the fees are:

$30 per private vehicle, valid for 7 days (up to 15 passengers)

$25 per person on motorcycle, valid for 7 days

$15 per cyclist or pedestrian, valid for 7 days

Consider purchasing an annual pass to the national parks. The America the Beautiful pass is valid at all US National Parks and federal recreation areas such as national forests and national monuments.

$80 per year, with free passes available for military and disabled persons.

Seniors $80 lifetime

Note there are extra fees for overnight in backcountry.

 

 

Lake Crescent Hikes

There are several hiking trails near Lake Crescent where you can enjoy the beauty of the forest and enjoy nature.

The rain forest is one of my favorite places to go hiking. It looks like something out of a fairytale, blankets of brilliant green moss on the trees and forest floor.

With all the moss and moisture, the ground has some give to it, a plush carpet beneath your feet. And the smell of the forest is amazing!

 

Marymere Falls Trail

Marymere Falls is a short east hike from Lake Crescent Lodge to the beautiful waterfalls.

The trailhead starts near the Storm King Ranger Station, take Lake Crescent Rd to the parking lot at the end.

Or walk from Lake Crescent Lodge for a bit longer hike.

• Distance: 1.7 miles (2.7 km) round trip
• Type of hike: Out and back
• Elevation gain: 300 ft (91 m)
• Difficulty: Easy

 

 

Pyramid Mountain

For a much more challenging hike, Pyramid Mountain will give your legs a workout.

There is a landslide to maneuver and lots of downed trees further up the trail. Rewarding views at the summit.

• Distance: 6.3 miles (10.1 km) round trip
• Type of hike: Out and back hike
• Elevation gain: 2,520 ft (768 m)
• Difficulty: Hard

 

Spruce Railroad Trail and Devil’s Punch Bowl

The trail now features an accessible trail (paved) and two restored railroad tunnels.

A popular trail for mountain bikers and hikers of all skill levels.

This trail along Lake Crescent offers rewarding views of the lake while hiking in the rainforest.

• Distance: 11 miles (18 km) round trip
• Type of hike: Out and back hike
• Elevation gain: 427 ft (130 m)
• Difficulty: Easy

 

Accommodation at Lake Crescent

Summer is the best time to visit Lake Crescent, although spring and fall are not too shabby either. Most lodgings at Lake Crescent are closed during winter season.

Lake Crescent Lodge

Lake Crescent Lodge is open from May 7, 2021 – January 3, 2022

Enjoy a cozy retreat at the perfect location right on the shores of Lake Crescent.

The hotel features a restaurant/bar and offers rowboat rentals. Relax and daydream lakeside in Olympic National Park.

 

 

The Log Cabin Resort

Log Cabin Resort is open from May 21 – September 30, 2021

Waterfront lodging with a variety of accommodations including lakeside chalets, rustic cabins, full hook-up RV sites, and tent camping sites.

 

 

Campgrounds at Lake Crescent

Some campgrounds are first come first served, but you can make a campsite reservation in the summer for Kalaloch, Sol Duc, and Mora campgrounds.

Note that there are no shower facilities at any of the campgrounds.

Fairholme Campground has 87 campsites, only 1 is wheelchair accessible.

Open late spring through early fall

$24 per night

RV sites (21 feet maximum)

 

 

Enjoy visiting Lake Crescent and the beauty of Washington State.

 

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