15+ BEST Pretty Lakes in Washington DC You Should Explore Before They’re Gone

Lake Washington is a freshwater lake in Washington state that is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. It is the second largest natural lake in the state, making it a popular destination for anglers looking to catch a variety of fish species.

With its clear waters and abundant fish population, Lake Washington provides a great environment for sport fishing. Whether you’re looking to reel in trout, bass, or salmon, this lake offers plenty of opportunities to test your skills and enjoy a day out on the water. So grab your fishing gear and head to Lake Washington for a fun and rewarding fishing experience!

Diablo Lake is a stunning mountain lake located in the North Cascades National Park in Washington. The lake is famous for its vibrant turquoise color, which is created by glacial silt suspended in the water. The surrounding mountain scenery adds to the beauty of the lake, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Visitors to Diablo Lake can enjoy canoeing and kayaking on the calm waters, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. The lake is also a great spot for hiking, with several trails offering opportunities to explore the area further. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing paddle on the water or a challenging hike in the mountains, Diablo Lake has something for everyone to enjoy.

Colchuck Lake is a beautiful alpine lake nestled beneath the towering Dragontail and Colchuck peaks. The lake is the perfect destination for a day hike, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and crystal-clear waters.

The hike to Colchuck Lake is an 8-mile round trip adventure that takes you through lush forests and meadows before reaching the picturesque lake. It’s a great way to spend a day in nature and take in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Baker Lake is a beautiful forest lake located in a serene natural setting. Surrounded by towering trees and majestic mountains, the lake offers a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to enjoy the great outdoors.

With plenty of opportunities for fishing and boating, Baker Lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re casting a line in search of the perfect catch or paddling out on the calm waters, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at this scenic lake.

Lake Wenatchee is a beautiful blue lake nestled among towering mountains, creating a stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. The glacier-fed lake is a popular destination for visitors looking to enjoy a variety of recreational activities in the great outdoors.

Surrounding the lake is a 489-acre park and campground, providing ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, swimming, and picnicking. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sandy shores or explore the surrounding trails, Lake Wenatchee offers something for everyone to enjoy in its picturesque setting.

Banks Lake is a beautiful reservoir located in Washington state, surrounded by stunning desert landscapes. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming during the hot summer months. Visitors can enjoy picnicking along the sandy shores or exploring the nearby hiking trails.

The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, fish, and other aquatic creatures. It is a peaceful and serene destination for nature lovers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re looking to relax on the water or explore the surrounding area, Banks Lake offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Mowich Lake is a beautiful spot for camping and hiking. The small lake has crystal clear water and is surrounded by picturesque wooded areas, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. There are hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and a campground where you can spend the night under the stars.

Whether you’re looking to spend a peaceful day by the water or embark on an outdoor adventure, Mowich Lake has something for everyone. The serene atmosphere and natural beauty of this hidden gem make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Lake Quinault is a beautiful, scenic lake located in a lush rainforest. The glacial lake is surrounded by stunning alpine scenery, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, boating, and camping in this picturesque setting.

The serene waters of Lake Quinault provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re looking to relax on the shore or explore the surrounding trails, this tranquil lake offers something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to experience the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that Lake Quinault has to offer.

Lake Chelan is a beautiful mountain lake that attracts tourists all year round. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities such as water sports, hiking, and wine tasting. The lake is surrounded by stunning mountain views, making it a picturesque spot for relaxation and adventure.

Visitors to Lake Chelan can enjoy staying in hotels and resorts that cater to all their needs. The area is known for its local wine production, so wine enthusiasts can indulge in tasting sessions at nearby vineyards. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed vacation, Lake Chelan has something for everyone to enjoy in its scenic mountain setting.

Eunice Lake is a beautiful glacial lake located in Mount Rainier National Park, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. It is a popular hiking destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the natural beauty of the area.

Visitors can enjoy a leisurely hike to the lake, taking in the sights of wildflowers, waterfalls, and wildlife along the way. The crystal-clear waters of Eunice Lake provide a serene setting for picnicking, fishing, or simply relaxing and taking in the peaceful atmosphere of the park. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a scenic spot to unwind, Eunice Lake is a must-visit destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Snow Lake is a peaceful alpine lake nestled in the mountains, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The crystal-clear waters of the lake reflect the surrounding peaks, creating a picturesque setting that is perfect for relaxation and contemplation.

A 7-mile-long hiking trail winds its way around the lake, providing ample opportunities to explore the area and take in the stunning views. There are also campsites available for those looking to spend the night under the stars, making it a great destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Blanca Lake is a stunning turquoise-colored glacial lake nestled in a mountain basin. The vibrant hue of the water is truly striking and a sight to behold. Surrounded by lush, woodsy mountains, the lake offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.

Hiking trails wind their way through the surrounding landscape, providing opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. The crystal-clear waters of Blanca Lake are a popular spot for swimming and photography, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful and scenic escape in the great outdoors.

Little Kachess Lake is a beautiful hiking destination with campsites where you can enjoy stunning mountain views. The serene lake and reservoir can be reached by a scenic hiking trail, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to connect with nature.

Whether you’re looking to spend a peaceful night under the stars or take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, Little Kachess Lake has something for everyone. With its tranquil setting and convenient campsites, this hidden gem is a must-visit for anyone seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating outdoor adventure.

Lake Valhalla is a stunning alpine lake located in the Cascade Mountains of Washington state. Surrounded by towering evergreen trees and snow-capped peaks, it offers a picturesque setting for hiking and camping. The crystal-clear waters of the lake are perfect for swimming and fishing, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The hike to Lake Valhalla is moderate in difficulty, with a well-maintained trail that winds through lush forests and meadows. Once you reach the lake, you can relax on the sandy shore or explore the surrounding area on foot. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a challenging adventure, Lake Valhalla has something to offer for everyone.

Reflection Lakes are stunning bodies of water that offer breathtaking views of the majestic Mt. Rainier. These tranquil lakes are famous for their mirror-like reflections of the picturesque mountain, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. During springtime, the lakes come alive with vibrant wildflowers, adding a pop of color to the already beautiful scenery.

Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks around the lakes, taking in the stunning views and snapping photos of the reflection of Mt. Rainier. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Reflection Lakes is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking beauty and tranquility in nature.

Summit Lake is a picturesque spot nestled in the heart of the mountains. The crystal-clear water reflects the surrounding peaks, creating a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and hiking along the scenic trails that wind around the lake.

The tranquil atmosphere of Summit Lake makes it the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, this hidden gem is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Pack a picnic and spend the day soaking in the peaceful surroundings of Summit Lake.

Rattlesnake Lake is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and picnics. The lake and surrounding recreation area offer opportunities for outdoor activities like swimming and fishing, as well as scenic waterfront hikes and relaxing picnics.

Visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear waters of Rattlesnake Lake, or try their hand at catching some fish from the shore. The area is also perfect for a leisurely picnic with family and friends, surrounded by the natural beauty of the lake and surrounding forests.

Granite Lakes is a stunning natural oasis located in the heart of the mountains. The crystal-clear waters of the lakes reflect the surrounding granite cliffs, creating a picturesque and serene setting for visitors to enjoy.

Visitors can hike along the scenic trails that wind around the lakes, taking in the breathtaking views of the rugged landscape. The lakes also offer opportunities for swimming, fishing, and picnicking, making it the perfect destination for a day of outdoor adventure and relaxation.

Bench Lake is a serene and picturesque spot located in the heart of the mountains. Surrounded by tall trees and lush greenery, it offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and hikers alike. The crystal-clear waters of the lake reflect the blue sky above, creating a stunning mirror-like effect.

Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lake or relax on one of the many benches scattered along the shoreline. The tranquil atmosphere makes it the perfect place to unwind and connect with the beauty of the natural world. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to read a book or a peaceful place to meditate, Bench Lake is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Pearrygin Lake is a beautiful spot located in the Methow Valley of Washington state. The lake offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at Pearrygin Lake, including fishing, boating, swimming, and picnicking. The lake is also home to a campground, making it a great spot for a weekend getaway with family and friends. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water or explore the nearby hiking trails, Pearrygin Lake has something for everyone to enjoy.