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Explore 25 Gorgeous Lakes in Washington

Washington has lakes for days...

By: The Outbound Collective + Save to a List

Sure, adventure is all about the journey. But it doesn’t hurt when the final destination comes with lunch (and maybe a cold one) next a beautiful mountain lake, right? If you agree, then you’ll love exploring Washington. With nearly 8,000 lakes across the state, there are plenty of options to satisfy whatever adventure you’re craving...a multi-day trek, quick day hike, or just pull up the car and take in the view. We know you can’t sort through 8,000 lakes so we’ve done you a favor with this list of 20 gorgeous lakes in Washington. You can thank us later. For now, bust open your bucket list and start making your plans!

1. Hike to Lake Serene and Bridal Veil Falls


Photo: Scott Kranz

2. Backpack to Tank Lakes


Photo: Mitch Pittman

3. Hike Lake 22


Photo: Gemina Garland-Lewis

4. Camp at Takhlakh Lake


Photo: Angela Service

5. Paddle Lake Union


Photo: Michael Gabbert

6. Backpack to Marmot and Jade Lake


Photo: Colin Ayers

7. Hike Ancient Lakes


Photo: Mitch Pittman

8. Hike to Goat Lake


Photo: Gemina Garland-Lewis

9. Explore Diablo Lake


Photo: Scott Kranz

10. Backpack to Spade and Venus Lakes


Photo: Jason Zabriskie

11. Hike to Colchuck Lake


Photo: Mikaela Tangeman

12. Hike Chain Lakes


Photo: Jason Horstman

13. Hike to Hidden Lake Lookout


Photo: Christin Healey

14. Backpack to Snow Lake


Photo: Michael Matti

15. Hike to Lake Ingalls


Photo: Jason Horstman

16. Hike to Upper Palisades


Photo: John Chau

17. Hike to Gillette Lake


Photo: Hannah Kemp

18. Backpack Tuck and Robin Lakes


Photo: Jason Zabriskie

19. Hike to Big Heart Lake


Photo: Bryan Carroll

20. Explore Tipsoo Lake


Photo: Lorene Voskinarian

21. Hike to Blue Lake


Photo: Nick Lake

22. Hike to Lake Stuart


Photo: Rose Freeman

23. Hike to Barclay Lake


Photo: Michael Gabbert

24. Explore Reflection Lakes


Photo: Jon King

25. Backpack to Gem Lake


Photo: Felix Madrid

Cover photo: Scott Kranz

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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