Lake Crescent Tours and Activities

Washington Coast which includes a house and landscape views
Olympic National Park which includes mountains, landscape views and forests
Olympic National Park featuring mountains, forests and a lake or waterhole
Washington featuring boating, landscape views and a lake or waterhole
Olympic National Park featuring a lake or waterhole and forests


With brilliant blue waters for boating, alpine scenery and abundant hiking trails, this glacial lake is the perfect wilderness escape.

With its sparkling blue water and pine-clad hillsides, Lake Crescent is one of Olympic National Park’s most popular scenic destinations. Breathe in the fresh air, walk among the pines and toast marshmallows by the campfire. You’ll find plenty of serenity in this pristine wilderness area.

Lake Crescent is a deepwater, glacially carved lake that plummets to an official maximum depth of 624 feet (190 meters), though some depth measurements put it far deeper than this. Either way, the depth and elevation mean the water remains cold year-round, so boating is the preferred water pastime.

Rent a rowboat from Lake Crescent Lodge and set off from one of the boat launches located at either end of the lake. Glide over the water and marvel at its clarity and the reflections in its mirror-like surface.

Once you’re back on dry land, explore the surrounding area on foot. Choose one of several different day hikes around Lake Crescent. These range from a short 0.6-mile (1-kilometer) loop with no elevation gain, to a more challenging one-way 7.5-mile (12-kilometer) hike that has an elevation gain of 4,200 feet (1,280 meters).

Set off on the 0.8-mile (1.3-kilometer) trail from the Storm King Visitor Center to Marymere Falls for a relatively easy hike. Walk through the old-growth forest until you reach the cascading falls, which are 90 feet (27 meters) high. The falls are accessible to disabled persons, with some assistance.

There is much to see at Lake Crescent. If you want to cover several of the nearby trails, you’ll need to stay for a few days. Camp at the Fairholme Campground at the western end of the lake. During summer, accommodation is also available at Lake Crescent Lodge or the Log Cabin Resort.

Lake Crescent is about 18 miles (29 kilometers) west of Port Angeles. The Olympic Peninsula’s scenic highway passes right by the lake, giving easy access.

Popular places to visit


Top Lake Crescent Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Lake Crescent Lodge

Lake Crescent Lodge

2.5 out of 5
Lake Crescent Road, 416, Port Angeles, WA
Lake Crescent Lodge
Dreamlike Lakefront Cabin on Lake Sutherland

Dreamlike Lakefront Cabin on Lake Sutherland

Port Angeles
Dreamlike Lakefront Cabin on Lake Sutherland
Peaceful, Cozy place in the woods. A short distance to everything good outdoors.

Peaceful, Cozy place in the woods. A short distance to everything good outdoors.

Port Angeles
Peaceful, Cozy place in the woods. A short distance to everything good outdoors.
A-Frame Shelter w/ Incredible Ocean View (Site 5)

A-Frame Shelter w/ Incredible Ocean View (Site 5)

Port Angeles
A-Frame Shelter w/ Incredible Ocean View (Site 5)
Forested Cottage in the Woods, near Olympic Park

Forested Cottage in the Woods, near Olympic Park

Port Angeles
Forested Cottage in the Woods, near Olympic Park
Wander Camp Olympic

Wander Camp Olympic

2 out of 5
235471 U.S. 101, Port Angeles, WA
Wander Camp Olympic
Ocean View Tent Site T4

Ocean View Tent Site T4

Port Angeles
Ocean View Tent Site T4
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Lake Crescent

At Lake Crescent in Port Angeles, you can enjoy a range of activities such as camping, picnicking, and witnessing stunning sunsets. For a unique experience, consider Olympic glamping near the lake. Additionally, the area boasts various hiking trails that allow you to explore the beautiful scenery and wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts.

Shopping

At Lake Crescent, you can shop for souvenirs at local gift shops and the nearby Port Angeles Farmers Market. If you're up for a drive, head to the Olympic Peninsula Mall in Port Angeles for a wider selection of retail stores and unique finds.

Recreation

At Salt Creek Recreation Area, immerse yourself in nature with peaceful walks and scenic views, just 11.3km from Lake Crescent. For family fun, visit Port Angeles Dream Playground, 111.3km away, offering outdoor activities for all ages. Enjoy a round of golf with stunning vistas at Peninsula Golf Club, 29.0km away.

Adventure

At Barnes Creek Trailhead, 3.2km from Lake Crescent, experience a thrilling hike surrounded by stunning scenery. Happy Lake Ridge, 11.3km away, offers breathtaking views and a challenging trail. For a true adventure, tackle Pyramid Peak Trailhead, also 11.3km from Lake Crescent, and immerse yourself in nature.

Nightlife

Lake Crescent offers a serene nightlife with stunning views. Enjoy a cozy dinner at the Lake Crescent Lodge or unwind with a drink at the historic Log Cabin Resort. For a unique experience, take a moonlit stroll along the lake's edge, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Lake Crescent

At Lake Crescent, visitors can enjoy the stunning scenic shores while indulging in outdoor activities, romantic beach strolls, and relaxing at local hot springs. Nearby attractions include the historic Lake Crescent Lodge, which offers a perfect base for exploration. Don't miss the opportunity to unwind by the lake and discover nearby beaches, making it an ideal getaway for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax amidst nature's beauty.

  • Lake Sutherland: A stunning lake located 4.8km from Lake Crescent, Lake Sutherland offers picturesque beaches and breathtaking scenery. It's an ideal spot for outdoor activities, perfect for a romantic day out or a leisurely picnic by the water.
  • Olympic Hot Springs: Located 12.9km from Lake Crescent, these natural hot springs provide a soothing escape amidst nature. With a focus on wellness and relaxation, it's a fantastic place to unwind while enjoying the serene outdoor environment.
  • Marymere Falls: Just 3.2km from Lake Crescent, this enchanting waterfall is a must-visit for adventure seekers. Surrounded by lush forests, it's perfect for a romantic hike to witness the cascading waters up close.

Best time to go to Lake Crescent

The best time to visit Lake Crescent is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January38.7°F (3.7°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February38.1°F (3.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March40.5°F (4.7°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April44.6°F (7.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
July61.2°F (16.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyHighSlightly High
August62.4°F (16.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyHighSlightly High
September56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October49.3°F (9.6°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
November42.1°F (5.6°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyLowAverage
December37.6°F (3.1°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lake Crescent

To save money on your trip to Lake Crescent, consider visiting between December and February when accommodation prices drop. Tuesdays are the best days for cheaper stays, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to compare prices and find deals by sorting from lowest to highest. Booking a package that combines your hotel, flights, and activities can further reduce costs. Look for flexible booking options, free cancellation on select hotels, and refundable reservations to ensure your travel plans remain adaptable.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Lake Crescent are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Lake Crescent is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Lake Crescent is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Lake Crescent hotel stay with your flights and activities by booking a package through Expedia.