Lake Quinault

Lake Quinault

Lake Quinault is located in the Quinault Valley in southwest Washington, bordered by the Olympic National Park on its northern shore, and managed by the Olympic National Forest on its southern shore.  The lake is owned by the Quinault Tribal Nation.

Lake Quinault is surrounded by temperate rainforest, and on average receives about 12 feet of rain per year.  The best time to visit is during the dry season from April to September.

Lake Quinault Lodge

A key attraction is historic Lake Quinault Lodge built in 1926.  It's listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and in 1937 played host to President Franklin D. Roosevelt.  This visit was instrumental in Roosevelt’s decision to sign a bill creating the Olympic National Park nine months later.  The lodge has a rustic lobby and interior, and many of the rooms have views of the picturesque lake.  The lakeside restaurant is also popular with visitors. 

Some other accommodation options include:

• Rain Forest Resort
• Lake Quinault Resort

Things to do at Lake Quinault

• Visit the world’s largest trees:  The Quinault Valley is also known as the “Valley of the Giants” and includes some of the world’s largest trees.  The world’s largest Sitka Spruce tree is just a few minutes walk from the Rain Forest Resort, and is over 1000 years old.  The world’s largest Western Red Cedar is also a short walk from the Lake Quinault Resort, and is the largest tree in Washington State. 
• Hike through the Quinault Rainforest rainforest:  There are a number of hikes through old growth forest behind the resorts.  One of the most popular is the 0.5 mile “Rain Forest Nature Trail Loop” that meanders past creeks and waterfalls in a lush rainforest setting. 
• Rent a canoe or kayak:  Many of the resorts enable you to rent canoes or kayaks on the lake, and also receive instruction.
• Go fishing:  A fishing permit is required from the Quinault Tribal Nation.
• Play golf:  The “Locke’s Landing” 9-hole golf course is just past the Rain Forest Resort.

Nearby attractions:

• Kalaloch Beach – 33 miles west
• Ruby Beach – 40 miles NW
• Long Beach – 115 miles south
• Oysterville – 129 miles south
• Cape Disappointment - 117 miles south
• Fort Columbia – 117 miles south

Combine a trip to Lake Quinault with a tour of the Olympic National Park.

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