Lake Crescent

Introduction to Lake Crescent

Formed thousands of years ago, this crystal-clear, glacially carved lake has depths of up to 624 feet in places. As the ice retreated, it left behind a steep valley that filled with the waters of Lake Crescent. Visitors often describe this area of the park with words like "beautiful" and "amazing".

Activities at Lake Crescent

Lake Crescent offers a variety of activities for its visitors including hiking, boating, and camping. Its protected waters are home to unique fish species like the Beardslee and Crescenti trout, which are found nowhere else in the world.

Hiking Trails

There are several hiking trails of varying lengths to explore:

• The hike to Marymere Falls is less than a mile each way and leads to a stunning 90-foot-tall waterfall.
• The Moments in Time loop trail is an easy .6-mile self-guided trek through the forest and along the lake.
• The Mount Storm King trail is more strenuous, climbing a steep trail with switchbacks 2,000 feet up (2.2 miles each way).
• The Pyramid Peak trail, also strenuous, ascends to a World War II spotting tower (3.5 miles each way).

Visitor Reviews

Reviewers often remark on the lake's serene atmosphere and suggest that the views of the waterfall are worth the hike. Many travelers recommend staying in the area to fully appreciate Lake Crescent's beauty since there are accommodation options available, aside from campgrounds.

Location and Additional Information

Located in the northern foothills of the Olympic Mountains, Lake Crescent is about 18 miles west of Port Angeles and free to access. The Storm King Ranger Station, which provides information and books for sale, is open in the summer if staffing permits. Accommodations, restaurants, and boat rentals are available at the Lake Crescent Lodge and the Log Cabin Resort (both of which are closed in winter). For more details, visit the NPS website.