Discover The 7 Cleanest Lakes in Washington

Washington State boasts some of the most beautiful and unspoiled natural scenery in the United States, with stunning mountainous landscapes, lush forests, and majestic rivers and lakes. If you’re a fan of swimming, you’ll be delighted to know that Washington is home to numerous pristine lakes with crystal-clear waters. They are perfect for a refreshing dip or a leisurely swim.

But why are so many of the lakes in Washington so clear and clean? The answer lies in the state’s abundant rainfall and snowfall. Precipitation creates a constant supply of fresh water that rocks, soils, and vegetation naturally filter. This results in an ideal environment for aquatic life and a pristine setting for human recreation.

In this article, we explore the seven cleanest lakes in Washington. So, get ready to jump in and experience the ultimate natural beauty of these incredible bodies of water!

1. Lake Chelan

This lake features clean water. Lake Chelan was previously contaminated with toxic mine pollution but has undergone a cleanup project that has resulted in clean water. Visitors describe the lake as “clear,” “clean,” and “stunning.” Initiatives, campaigns, and volunteer efforts focus on keeping the lake clean.

Aquatic Activities:

Below is a list of aquatic activities at Lake Chelan. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there may be additional aquatic activities available depending on the season, local businesses, and attractions.

Water Sports: Barefoot Water Sports provides a variety of fun water rentals including kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and hydro bikes at Lake Chelan State Park. There is also jet skiing, water skiing, inter-tubing, kayaking, or parasailing at Lake Chelan in the summer.

Swimming: Swimming, sunbathing, and playing on the beach at Alta Lake State Park. Slidewaters Waterpark offers a variety of water attractions at Lake Chelan. You can also participate in the annual Lake Chelan Swim, a 1.5-mile swim across the lake.

Fishing: Fishing activities, including boat rentals and guided fishing tours offered by several companies around the lake.

Boating: There are boating, cruising, and sightseeing tours at Lake Chelan.

2. Summit Lake

Summit Lake in Washington is generally clean. Several articles and official sources mention the lake’s good water quality, and efforts to keep it clean. The lake is oligotrophic, which is a level of water body purity indicating low productivity and high water clarity.

The lake is improving its health, and natural cleaning processes are taking place. However, it is important to note that water quality can vary over time, and it may be helpful to check with local authorities regarding the current water quality status if you plan to visit the lake.

Aquatic Activities:

Here is a list of some aquatic activities at Summit Lake in Washington. It’s important to note that this lake is primarily a fishing and swimming destination.

Fishing: Summit Lake has great fishing opportunities, with a variety of fish species available, including largemouth bass, rainbow trout, yellow perch, and bullhead catfish.

Swimming: Summit Lake State Park has a large swimming beach that is open to the public during the summer months.

Boating: Summit Lake State Park offers boat rentals, including paddleboats, rowboats, kayaks, and canoes. Guests can also launch their own boats at one of three boat ramps.

Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking: Summit Lake may be a good spot for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, although limited information is available about rental options or launch sites.

Wildlife watching: Summit Lake is home to a variety of bird species, and visitors may also be able to spot other wildlife, such as deer or beavers.

3. Bumping Lake

Bumping Lake appears to be generally clean. There are several mentions of the lake’s cleanliness and beauty, with the campsites, pit toilets, and vault toilets being described as clean. Also, a group is dedicated to preserving and protecting the lake, which suggests that the lake is a valuable resource in the region.

Aquatic Activities:

Here is a list of aquatic activities at Bumping Lake in Washington:

Boating: Bumping Lake is a popular destination for boating, including kayaks, canoes, and motorized boats. Boat rentals may be available at the Bumping Lake Marina.

Fishing: The lake has excellent trout fishing, including rainbow, cutthroat, and brook trout. Anglers may need a fishing license.

Swimming: Visitors may swim in the lake, although there may not be any lifeguards on duty.

Paddleboarding: Paddleboarding is a popular activity on Bumping Lake, and visitors may bring their own paddleboards or rent them from local vendors.

Hiking: Hiking trails are available near Bumping Lake, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding area and enjoy scenic views.

Camping: Bumping Lake Campground offers campsites near the lake, allowing visitors to enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming and fishing.

4. Lake Crescent

Lake Crescent in Washington is generally considered clean. One of the sources mentions that Lake Crescent is known for its clear, near-pristine water. Also, several sources describe the beauty of the lake and the cleanliness of the surrounding accommodations, suggesting that Lake Crescent is considered a valuable and well-maintained resource in the region.

Aquatic Activities:

Here is a list of aquatic activities at Lake Crescent in Washington:

Canoeing and kayaking: Lake Crescent offers opportunities for canoeing and kayaking, which can be done from various launch sites.

Swimming: Visitors can swim in Lake Crescent, although there are no lifeguards on duty.

Boating: Boating is also a popular activity on the lake, with boat rental services available.

Fishing: Lake Crescent is home to a variety of fish, including trout and bass, making it a popular destination for fishing.

Paddleboarding: Paddleboarding is becoming increasingly popular on Lake Crescent, and visitors may rent paddleboards from local vendors.

Camping: Camping is available near Lake Crescent, with campsites at Fairholme Campground.

Hiking: Visitors can enjoy the lakeshore trail or other hiking trails in the surrounding area, such as the Pyramid Mountain Trail, which offers a panoramic view of Lake Crescent.

Mineral Hot Springs: Visitors can enjoy mineral hot springs at nearby Lake Crescent Lodge or Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort.

5. Lake Washington

Lake Washington in Washington State appears to be relatively clean. While the lake was previously heavily contaminated by untreated sewage, extensive pollution controls implemented by the city have helped to restore its water quality. As a result, Lake Washington is now considered an ecological triumph and is the most studied and imitated example of successful lake restoration achieved by diverting sewage. The King County Metro Council was also formed in part to clean up Lake Washington and reduce water pollution in the area.

Aquatic Activities:

Here’s a list of aquatic activities at Lake Washington in Washington:

Boating: Lake Washington is popular among boaters, with motorized and non-motorized boats both allowed on the lake. Several boat launches and marinas are available around the lake.

Fishing: Lake Washington is known for its diverse fish population, including trout, bass, and salmon, making it popular among anglers.

Swimming: Several swimming beaches are available around Lake Washington, including Matthews Beach and Madrona Park.

Water sports: Activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, and water skiing can be enjoyed on the lake.

Hiking and biking: The 30-mile loop trail around Lake Washington provides opportunities for hiking, biking, and walking.

Sightseeing and photography: Lake Washington features stunning views of the Seattle skyline and surrounding mountains. It’s a popular spot for sightseeing and photography.

6. Pearrygin Lake

Pearrygin Lake in Washington State is generally considered clean. Several sources describe the cleanliness of the campground facilities, restrooms, and surrounding area, suggesting that Pearrygin Lake is considered a valuable and well-maintained resource in the region.

Also, there are mentions of the importance of maintaining clean equipment and the need for pet owners to clean up after their animals, further indicating a commitment to environmental cleanliness.

Aquatic Activities:

Here is a list of aquatic activities at Pearrygin Lake in Washington:

Swimming: Pearrygin Lake offers a designated swimming area for visitors to enjoy.

Fishing: The lake is known for its fishing opportunities, with several species of fish available to catch.

Boating: Visitors can bring their own boats or rent them from the Pearrygin Lake State Park for activities such as water skiing, tubing, and cruising around the lake.

Paddleboarding and kayaking: Non-motorized watercraft can be used on the lake.

Hiking: Visitors can enjoy the hiking trails surrounding the lake.

Wildlife watching: Pearrygin Lake offers opportunities to observe wildlife such as bald eagles, deer, and beavers.

Camping: The Pearrygin Lake State Park offers camping sites near the lake.

7. Mowich Lake

Mowich Lake is located in Mount Rainier National Park in the northwestern corner of the state and is generally considered clean. Multiple sources mention the clear, blue waters of the lake and the cleanliness of the surrounding campground facilities and restrooms. Visitors are seen enjoying activities such as fishing, boating, and canoeing on the lake, further suggesting that it’s a clean and well-maintained resource.

Also, some sources mention the importance of visitors cleaning their gear thoroughly and being mindful of their impact on the environment, indicating a commitment to environmental cleanliness.

Aquatic Activities:

Here is a list of activities that are available in the Mowich Lake area:

Fishing: Mowich Lake is known for its fishing opportunities. You can fish from the shoreline or a float tube if you wish. Eastern Brook Trout, Westslope and Yellowstone cutthroat trout, and kokanee salmon are species that are frequently supplied in the lake.

Hiking: There are hiking trails in the area, as it is a popular activity in the region. The six-mile round journey to the Tolmie Peak Lookout is among the greatest possibilities for a day excursion.

Camping: There are camping sites available in the area for visitors to enjoy the outdoors, including Mowich Lake Campground.

In Conclusion

While Washington State is undoubtedly a treasure trove of pristine and breathtaking lakes, it’s important to note that not all lakes are necessarily safe or clean to swim in. In our search for the eight cleanest lakes in Washington, we had to exclude some well-known and popular water bodies due to conflicting information or recent reports of higher-than-normal bacteria levels or toxic algae. This highlights the need for regular monitoring and testing of water quality to ensure the safety of swimmers and other water sports enthusiasts.

Some lakes were excluded due to a complete lack of data, further emphasizing the importance of continued research and ecological awareness. Also, it is important to note that water quality can vary over time, and it may be helpful to check with local authorities regarding the current water quality status if you plan to visit a particular lake. Despite all of this, we are confident that the eight lakes we have chosen offer a unique and unparalleled experience for those looking to enjoy clean and safe lake environments in Washington State!

By exploring and enjoying these lakes while respecting and protecting their ecological health, we can all contribute to the preservation of these aquatic treasures for generations to come.

Summary of The 7 Cleanest Lakes in Washington