If mountain lakes make your heart do a happy dance, this Olympic Peninsula mountain lakes road trip is for you.
We’re talking crystal-clear water, epic forest trails, secret waterfalls, and campsites where you can fall asleep under the stars.
This road trip loop around the best lakes in Washington’s Olympic Peninsula packs in everything you could want, and you might even see a mountain goat.
Some of these require hikes, but others are super accessible, so there’s definitely something for everyone on this list.
1. Lake Crescent
Lake Crescent is a deep, crystal-clear lake tucked into the northern part of Olympic National Park, just off Highway 101.
It’s famous for its bright blue water (seriously, it looks like a giant sapphire), and it’s 624 feet deep, making it the second-deepest lake in Washington.
You can hike the easy 1.8-mile Marymere Falls Trail to see a 90-foot waterfall, or rent a kayak from Lake Crescent Lodge and paddle across the lake’s glassy surface.
If you want to camp here, snag a spot at Fairholme Campground, which sits right on the lake and has over 80 sites with picnic tables and fire rings.
Related Reading: The Perfect Lake Crescent Weekend Itinerary
2. Lake Sutherland
Just a few minutes down the road from Lake Crescent, you’ll hit the smaller, but totally charming Lake Sutherland.
This one’s more of a local favorite, with cabins lining the shore and pontoon boats lazily cruising across its scenic stretch.
It’s not inside the national park, so you’ll get a more laid-back, lived-in vibe—plus, the water warms up enough in summer for a legit swim (no frozen toes here).
There’s no official campground, but if you’re up for a cozy stay, check out family-run lakeside cabins with private docks around the lake.
3. Lake Angeles
If you’re up for a little leg burn, Lake Angeles is your next stop, and it’s totally worth the climb.
This alpine stunner sits at over 4000 feet and is only reachable by hiking the 7-mile round-trip Lake Angeles Trail, which climbs about 2,300 feet through thick forest and switchbacks.
At the top, you’ll find a clear, mirror-like lake surrounded by rocky cliffs and maybe even a deer or grouse or two if you’re lucky.
There’s a small backcountry campground right by the lake, but you’ll need a backcountry wilderness permit to stay overnight, so plan ahead if you want to sleep under the stars.
4. Lena Lake
Next up is Lena Lake, and this one’s a total crowd-pleaser thanks to its scenic yet doable hike and seriously pretty views.
The 7.2-mile round-trip Lena Lake Trail gains about 1,300 feet and winds through mossy forest, giant boulders, and peekaboo views before dropping you right at the lake’s edge.
The lake itself is 55 acres of calm, greenish-blue water surrounded by steep cliffs and perfect spots for lakeside picnics or toe-dipping.
There’s a first-come, first-served backcountry campground right on the shore, with flat tent spots and bear wires so you don’t have to worry about your snacks disappearing overnight.
5. Lake Cushman
Lake Cushman is where you get that classic summer-vacation feeling, with boat ramps, swimming areas, and room to spread out.
It’s a big one, spreading over 4,000 acres, sitting right at the edge of Olympic National Forest with views of Mount Ellinor towering in the distance.
You can hike the Staircase Rapids Loop (a chill 2-mile trail along the North Fork Skokomish River) or dive into the lake from the beach at Skokomish Park, which also has kayak rentals and shaded picnic tables.
Skokomish Park at Lake Cushman is also your best bet for camping, with over 100 campsites, hot showers, and spots just steps from the water.
6. Lake Quinault
Last but definitely not least, Lake Quinault brings the rainforest magic to your mountain lake road trip.
This scenic lake is wrapped in lush greenery, with moss-draped trees and waterfalls hiding around nearly every bend.
Be sure to check out the short trail to Cascade Falls for an easy, dreamy detour.
You can paddle the calm water, hang out on the pebbly beach by Lake Quinault Lodge, or drive the full 31-mile Quinault Rain Forest Loop for waterfall spotting and epic forest views.
For camping, Willaby Campground is the go-to, with 21 shady sites just steps from the lake and walking distance to trails, swimming, and s’mores-worthy sunsets.
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