Stephanie is a cherished member of the Sampling America writing team, dedicated to crafting captivating narratives that transport readers to thrilling adventures across the country and beyond.
Sitting inside Washington’s beautiful Olympic Peninsula in the Pacific Northwest sits one of the best national parks in the country. Spanning multiple ecosystems, Olympic National Park is a stunning destination full of woods, ocean, sandy beaches, and more.
In this park, you’ll find dramatic mountain peaks, old-growth forests, and glaciers on Mt. Olympus, along with plenty of amazing hiking and backpacking trails and beaches right next to the sandy beaches.
Lake Crescent
Lake Crescent is one of the best lakes to visit in Olympic National Park; it’s the perfect spot for kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boarding.
Although the lake is small, there is a small boat launch for personal use. Once you’ve explored your way around the lake, you can relax on the beach and take in the beauty of the mountains and the water.
Upper Lena Lake
Take a hike and experience the stunning views of Upper Lena Lake for some peace and quiet. On the way to the lake, you’ll also pass by Lena Lake and experience the views of Mr. Bretherton on the way.
Surrounded by the thick Washington Rainforest, Upper Lena Lake is the perfect place to stop and admire the old-growth forest. With some trees rising more than 80000 feet from the Pacific Ocean, this place is a wonderful experience.
Lake Sutherland
Just east of Lake Crescent sits the majestic Lake Sutherland; many geologists believe that these lakes were formed at the same time and were separated by a landslide in the mountains.
The lakes can usually be visited on the same trip by people hiking or mountain biking through the area.
Flapjack Lakes
Flapjack Lakes are two bodies of water that sit side by side just below the tree line at the base of the Sawtooth Range.
The best place to visit this lake is in the summertime. During warmer months, a camp is open on one side of the lake for visitors to come and enjoy a few nights under the stars.
Lake Angeles
Surrounded by majestic glaciers and massive summits of Mt. Angeles sits the stunning tear-dropped-shaped Lake Angeles. It’s the perfect place to hike around, as the area has plenty of high peaks where guests can see a dramatic view of the park.
This destination is one of the largest alpine lakes inside Olympic National Park. It’s a popular destination among locals and those with a strong hiking acumen.
Lake Quinault
There is no shortage of stunning lakes on this list; Lake Quinault is an amazing destination that was carved out by glaciers millions of years ago.
It’s located at the south end of Olympic National Park and makes up part of the Quinault Rainforest, which is home to many unique varieties of animals and birds. As the Quinault Indian Nation owns the space, the group takes fantastic care of this stunning natural habitat.
Ozette Lake
Ozette Lake is the largest body of water and natural lake in Washington State. It makes up more than 29 square kilometers of water and sits along the northern boundary and coastal strip of Olympic National Park.
The lake offers plenty of fun outdoor activities and sports in the summer. Locals come here to enjoy the warm summer waters and fishing when the lake is full of thriving fish colonies.
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Get ready to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Alaska’s waterfalls! Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of America’s northernmost point, Alaska’s waterfalls offer a treat for travelers of all ages and interests. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a serene escape, Alaska’s diverse collection of 16 stunning waterfalls will leave you mesmerized.