Washington State is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, and its lakes are no exception. For homebuyers seeking the tranquility and beauty of lakefront living, Washington offers a plethora of options. Here are the top 10 lakes to live on in Washington State, each offering unique charms and reasons to call them home.
10. Lake Kachess
Nestled in the Cascade Mountains near Snoqualmie Pass, Lake Kachess is a hidden gem for those who love outdoor recreation and seclusion. The lake is surrounded by pristine wilderness, making it perfect for kayaking, fishing, and hiking. Its clear waters and dense forests offer a tranquil retreat from the fast-paced world. Residents enjoy the peaceful environment and the abundance of wildlife, including deer, eagles, and a variety of fish species. Despite its secluded nature, Lake Kachess is still accessible, being only a short drive from the amenities of Cle Elum and the outdoor activities of Snoqualmie Pass. This balance of remoteness and accessibility makes Lake Kachess an ideal spot for those seeking a serene, nature-immersed lifestyle.
9. Lake Roosevelt
Formed by the Grand Coulee Dam, Lake Roosevelt is a massive reservoir that stretches over 150 miles along the Columbia River. Its vast size and remote location make it ideal for those seeking a rugged, adventurous lifestyle. The lake is surrounded by scenic landscapes, including canyons, forests, and rolling hills, providing endless opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring. Lake Roosevelt is also a fishing paradise, known for its abundant trout, walleye, and bass populations. The lake's extensive shoreline offers numerous quiet coves and beaches, perfect for swimming, picnicking, and boating. Living near Lake Roosevelt means embracing a life of outdoor adventure and natural beauty, with the added bonus of exploring the rich history of the Columbia River basin.
8. Lake Stevens
Located in Snohomish County, Lake Stevens is a rapidly growing community that offers a blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. The lake itself is a hub for recreational activities, including boating, fishing, paddleboarding, and swimming. The surrounding area boasts well-maintained parks, walking trails, and community spaces that foster a strong sense of neighborhood camaraderie. The town of Lake Stevens offers excellent schools, diverse dining options, and a variety of shops and services. With its close proximity to Everett and Seattle, residents enjoy a peaceful lakeside lifestyle while still having easy access to urban conveniences and employment opportunities. Lake Stevens provides the perfect mix of tranquility and accessibility, making it an attractive option for families and professionals alike.
7. Lake Whatcom
Just east of Bellingham, Lake Whatcom is a serene freshwater lake that supplies drinking water to the local area. Its clean, clear waters are perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing, and the lake is surrounded by lush forests and scenic trails. Residents enjoy the best of both suburban and rural living, with spacious properties and a strong sense of community. The area around Lake Whatcom offers excellent schools, parks, and recreational facilities, making it ideal for families. The nearby city of Bellingham provides cultural amenities, shopping, dining, and entertainment options, ensuring that residents have everything they need within a short drive. Lake Whatcom's combination of natural beauty, community atmosphere, and urban accessibility makes it a highly desirable place to live.
6. Moses Lake
Moses Lake, located in Grant County, is known for its warm climate and extensive recreational opportunities. The lake itself is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering activities such as wakeboarding, water skiing, fishing, and swimming. The city of Moses Lake is vibrant and growing, with a range of cultural events, festivals, shopping, and dining options. The community is friendly and welcoming, with excellent schools and a variety of parks and outdoor spaces. Moses Lake's warm, sunny weather is a major draw, making it an ideal place for those who enjoy an active, outdoor lifestyle. With its combination of recreational opportunities, community amenities, and pleasant climate, Moses Lake is a fantastic place to call home.
5. Lake Wenatchee
Located in the scenic Wenatchee National Forest, Lake Wenatchee is a picturesque glacial lake surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests. This area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and horseback riding. In the winter, nearby Stevens Pass provides excellent skiing and snowboarding. The lake's remote setting provides a peaceful and private living environment, ideal for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The community around Lake Wenatchee is small and close-knit, with a focus on outdoor living and environmental stewardship. Despite its secluded location, the lake is within a reasonable drive to the charming Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth, which offers unique shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Lake Wenatchee is perfect for those who value natural beauty and a serene, outdoor-oriented lifestyle.
4. Lake Sammamish
Situated just east of Seattle, Lake Sammamish offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life while maintaining convenient access to urban amenities. The lake is surrounded by parks and protected natural areas, providing ample opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and picnicking. Residents of Lake Sammamish enjoy a strong sense of community, excellent schools, and a variety of recreational activities. The lake itself is popular for boating, fishing, paddleboarding, and swimming. The surrounding cities of Bellevue and Redmond offer a range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making Lake Sammamish an ideal location for families and professionals who want the best of both worlds: natural beauty and urban convenience.
3. Lake Chelan
Nestled in the heart of the Cascade Mountains, Lake Chelan is the third-deepest lake in the United States and is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery. The area is a popular destination for tourists and residents alike, offering a wide range of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and wine tasting at the many vineyards that dot the region. The town of Chelan offers a quaint, community-oriented atmosphere with excellent dining, shopping, and cultural events. The local schools are highly rated, and the community is known for its friendly and welcoming spirit. Lake Chelan's combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and a vibrant local culture make it an idyllic place to live year-round.
2. Lake Washington
As the second-largest natural lake in Washington, Lake Washington borders Seattle to the east and offers unparalleled urban lakefront living. Homes along the shores of Lake Washington boast stunning views of the city skyline, the Cascade Mountains, and the Olympic Mountains. The lake is a hub for recreational activities, including boating, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Numerous parks, trails, and green spaces surround the lake, providing ample opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. The communities around Lake Washington, such as Bellevue, Kirkland, and Renton, offer top-notch schools, diverse dining options, and vibrant cultural scenes. Living on Lake Washington allows residents to enjoy the tranquility of lakeside living while being just minutes away from the bustling city life of Seattle.
1. Lake Tapps
Located in Pierce County, Lake Tapps is a large reservoir known for its clear waters and stunning views of Mount Rainier. It is the ultimate haven for water sports enthusiasts, offering ample opportunities for boating, jet-skiing, wakeboarding, and fishing. The lake is surrounded by beautiful parks and trails, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The community around Lake Tapps is vibrant and family-friendly, with excellent schools, local shops, and a range of amenities. The area boasts a strong sense of community, with numerous events and activities that bring residents together. With its convenient location near major cities like Tacoma and Seattle, Lake Tapps combines the best of lakeside tranquility and urban accessibility. It’s the ideal place for those who want to enjoy a peaceful, active lifestyle without sacrificing convenience.
Make Your Waterfront Dreams a Reality with Integrity Mortgage Solutions
Living on a lake in Washington State offers unparalleled beauty and a unique lifestyle. At Integrity Mortgage Solutions, we understand the allure of lakefront living and are here to help you make your dreams a reality. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant community of Lake Tapps or the serene waters of Lake Kachess, our experienced team is dedicated to finding the perfect mortgage solution for you. With our personalized service, wide range of loan products, and fast processing times, we’re committed to turning your lakeside living dream into a reality.
Contact Integrity Mortgage Solutions today to explore how we can help you secure your dream home on one of Washington’s beautiful lakes. Let’s make your waterfront dreams come true!
Reach out to Darcie at darcie@integritymortgage1.com!