Lake Crescent, Olympic National Park, Washington

2013.09.07

Lake Crescent was formed about 8,000 years ago when a landslide blocked the outlet to the Elwha River.  The official depth of 624 feet reflects the limitations of the equipment used at the time (1970).  The actual maximum depth remains unknown, over 1,000 feet.  The lake is roughly crescent-shaped, but may have been named for nearby Crescent Bay on the coast.

Panoramic view of Lake Crescent, Olympic National Park, Washington
Panoramic view of Lake Crescent Lodge, Olympic National Park, Washington

Singer’s Lake Crescent Tavern opened in 1916 on Barnes Point with a lodge and several cabins for fishermen.  Guests originally arrived by ferry, until the Olympic Highway brought automobiles in 1922.  Today it is part of the Olympic National Park.

Lake Crescent Lodge, Olympic National Park, Washington
Lake Crescent Lodge, Olympic National Park, Washington
Lake Crescent Lodge, Olympic National Park, Washington
Lake Crescent Lodge, Olympic National Park, Washington
Lake Crescent Lodge, Olympic National Park, Washington
Lake Crescent Lodge, Olympic National Park, Washington
Lake Crescent Lodge, Olympic National Park, Washington
Lake Crescent Lodge, Olympic National Park, Washington
Lake Crescent Lodge, Olympic National Park, Washington
Female Mallard Duck (<em>Anas platyrhynchos</em>) at Lake Crescent Lodge, Olympic National Park, Washington