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WATERSKI MagazineGetting to a lake around Seattle in midsummer runs about as smoothly as shuffling to a mid-row seat with a tray full of popcorn and Pepsi at the claustrophobic Kingdome. We don't argue the fact that Lake Sammamish and Lake Washington are the hip places to be, but there's a lake even higher to the north and wider to the west that only the most knowledgeable insiders know about.
In order to find Lake Crescent, you have to cross over from the web of highways in Seattle and Tacoma and head to the remote Olympic Peninsula. Hug the coastline for a couple of hours until the Mayberry-size town of Port Angeles sneaks up and disappears. Waiting quietly another 10 miles to the west is Lake Crescent.
The few people who bother driving this far usually pass the lake on their way into the Olympic National Forest – their loss.
First impression: In the boonies with tall hills and tall trees.
From Seattle: 3 hours
Be aware of: Long waits for ferry transports out of the Seattle area during rush hour and on holidays.
Best known for: Being the only place in the U.S. where you can see glaciers, rain forest and coastal environments between breakfast and lunch.
Miles of shoreline: 30
You should experience: Mountain biking on Mount Mueller.
You might experience: A bath in natural hot springs to the east.
Slalom courses: Portables only.
Where you'll sleep: Most likely under a tent in a campground.
Local Flavor: Try to find a table at the tiny Lake Crescent Lodge and order fresh seafood.
Secrets: They've banned PWCs; you can get a free boat sticker from the ranger station (360-928-3380).
Advice: Bring all the food you
might need. The closest store is in
Port Angeles, and there aren't many places to eat.
Directions: Take a ferry or drive over the Tacoma Narrows Bridge to 101 and follow it all the way to the lake.
Best contact: Olympic National Park Visitors Center (360-452-0330).
