Explore 25 Gorgeous Lakes in Washington
Washington has lakes for days...
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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