Lake Crescent, originally uploaded by Tiger tulip.

When you are in Sequim, the wonders of the Olympic Peninsula and the Olympic National Park are close at hand. Lake Crescent is about 35 miles west of Sequim, and is a lovely place to spend an afternoon or a day. Twelve miles long, pressed up against the foothills of the Olympic Mountains, it is breathtakingly beautiful.

The water is clear, cold, and deep,  so only the bravest individuals will want to linger in it. However, it is a great place to boat or fish. Hikers will enjoy several options, from the Pyramid Mountain trail,  which affords great views of Lake Crescent, to the Spruce Railroad Trail along the north side of the lake. Picnic spots abound.

If you are more inclined to enjoy views of the lake while dining in a restaurant, you have two options: Lake Crescent Lodge (early May through mid October) and Log Cabin Resort. Even a slow, scenic drive along the lake shore is a worthwhile endeavor on a cool fall day.