Lake Crescent
Lake Crescent is a deep lake located entirely within Olympic National Park in Clallam County, Washington, United States, approximately 17 miles (27 km) west of Port Angeles on U.S. Route 101 and nearby to the small community of Piedmont. At an official maximum depth of 624 feet (190 m) it is officially the second deepest lake in Washington (after Lake Chelan). A lake-wide bathymetric survey was performed from 2013 to 2014 by Eian Ray and Jeff Engea and the results of this survey showed the maximum depth as being 596 feet (182 m). Using GIS statistical analysis, this survey also showed the lake contains approximately 0.5 cubic miles (2.1 km3) of fresh water.
| Lake Crescent | |
|---|---|
View of the ancient landslide that dammed Lake Crescent | |
Lake Crescent Lake Crescent | |
| Location | Clallam County, Washington |
| Coordinates | 48.06°N 123.83°W |
| Type | Crescent |
| Primary inflows | Barnes Creek, Smith Creek, Aurora Creek, Eagle Creek |
| Primary outflows | Lyre River |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Max. length | 12 mi (19 km) |
| Surface area | 5,127-acre (21 km2) |
| Average depth | 300 ft (91 m) |
| Max. depth | 624 ft (190 m) |
| Surface elevation | 580 ft (180 m) |
| Settlements | Piedmont |
Lake Crescent is known for its brilliant blue waters and exceptional clarity, caused by low levels of nitrogen in the water which inhibits the growth of algae. It is located in a popular recreational area that is home to several trails, including the Spruce Railroad Trail, Pyramid Mountain trail, and the Barnes Creek trail to Marymere Falls. The Spruce Railroad Trail follows the grade of what was once the tracks of a logging railroad along the shores of the lake. Following this trail on the north side of the lake, one can find the entrance to an old railroad tunnel which is now part of the Spruce Railroad Trail that also provides access to "Devils Punch Bowl", a popular swimming and diving area.