Washington’s Olympic Peninsula is a nature lover’s paradise. From beaches to waterfalls and a temperate rainforest, the entire peninsula is an absolute treasure. And without a doubt, Lake Crescent is one of its finest gems. This stunning lake has some of the cleanest and clearest water in the Northwest.

Lake Crescent is located near Port Angeles, in the northern foothills of the Olympic Mountains.

Alex H / TripAdvisor It’s known for its clear, pristine water and stunning natural beauty.

In the summer, the lake is a popular destination for kayaking, paddle boarding, and sailing.

Alex H / TripAdvisor There’s also plenty of fish in the lake, including the one-of-a-kind Beardsley Trout, identified by its unusually massive head.

Boat launches are located at both east and west ends of the lake, although plenty of people enjoy hanging out on the shores.

Linda O / TripAdvisor The historic and seasonal Lake Crescent Lodge is perfect for those who want easy access to the lake.

So, why is the water so strikingly blue and often clear?

Deanne A / TripAdvisor Because there’s very little nitrogen in the water, it doesn’t support much phytoplankton. That’s what keeps the water so clear.

Crescent Lake is also known as Washington’s bottomless lake.

Wes A / TripAdvisor It’s 624 feet deep, which is second only to Lake Chelan.

Believe it or not, this beautiful lake also has a sordid history.

Skwiki / TripAdvisor Hallie Illingworth is known as The Lady of the Lake because her body was found in it, almost perfectly preserved after a lengthy disappearance. A serial killer, Israel Keyes, dumped at least one of his victims’ bodies in the lake.

Lake Crescent is a beautiful vision, and we’re lucky to have it here in Washington.

ay2015ay / TripAdvisor Despite its eerie, mysterious past, it’s an incredibly peaceful place.

Have you ever been to Lake Crescent? Even if you’re not up for boating or swimming, you’ll love all the hiking trails that offer beautiful lake views.

Alex H / TripAdvisor

It’s known for its clear, pristine water and stunning natural beauty.

Alex H / TripAdvisor

There’s also plenty of fish in the lake, including the one-of-a-kind Beardsley Trout, identified by its unusually massive head.

Linda O / TripAdvisor

The historic and seasonal Lake Crescent Lodge is perfect for those who want easy access to the lake.

Deanne A / TripAdvisor

Because there’s very little nitrogen in the water, it doesn’t support much phytoplankton. That’s what keeps the water so clear.

Wes A / TripAdvisor

It’s 624 feet deep, which is second only to Lake Chelan.

Skwiki / TripAdvisor

Hallie Illingworth is known as The Lady of the Lake because her body was found in it, almost perfectly preserved after a lengthy disappearance. A serial killer, Israel Keyes, dumped at least one of his victims’ bodies in the lake.

ay2015ay / TripAdvisor

Despite its eerie, mysterious past, it’s an incredibly peaceful place.

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Address: Lake Crescent, Washington 98363, USA