Lake Crescent / Sol Duc Falls- The Most Photogenic Waterfalls in Washington (Olympia, WA)

If I take the 101 and head west continuously from where I live, Lake Crescent (which is long like a river and wide like the ocean), shows up on the right. The driving course hugging the lake is very beautiful. It is even better since there are picnic areas at intervals along the lake.

Lake Crescent is located within Olympic National Park, about 17 miles (27 km.) west of Port Angeles and near the small community of Piedmont. With an official maximum depth of 624 feet (190 m.), it is officially the second deepest lake in Washington. However, unofficial depth measurements have recorded depths of more than 1,000 feet (300 m.).

The lake’s brilliant blue water and exceptional clarity are caused by the lack of nitrogen in the water, which prevents algae from growing. Because early records are scarce, it is not clear whether the lake’s name came from its crescent shape or its location near Crescent Bay.

The popular recreational area around the lake has a number of popular trails. Some of the trails go up the nearby mountains, while others offer less climbing through lowland forests. Some of the most popular trails are the Barnes Creek Trail to Marymere Falls and the Spruce Railroad Trail running along the north shore of the lake.

Sol Duc is an outdoor hot spring resort area located in Olympic National Park and is best known for its soaking pools, hot tubs, and swimming pool that are heated with the nearby hot springs. 

I’ve never been to Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort since I do not like hot springs. But if you go further inside the Sol Duc hot springs area, there is an impressive trail with towering trees and a mossy ravine leading to the famous Sol Duc Falls.

Since this area gets the most rain in the Washington area, visitors can always hear loud waterfall noises. They say Sol Duc Falls is by most accounts one of the most photogenic waterfalls in Washington and therefore one of the most sought out waterfalls by photographers. Sol Duc Falls has been featured on numerous magazines and highlighted worldwide as one of the prettiest waterfalls in Olympic National Park.

But in my opinion, Sol Duc Falls are not the best. But they do have their own charm. However, the trail to go see Sol Duc Falls, which I felt really combined with nature, was one of the best! 

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