This Washington State Park Is An Unexpected Desert Gem With A Lake Surrounded By Mountains

Situated against the stunning backdrop of Washington's high desert landscape sits a natural retreat with arid hills and lush pine forests. Alta Lake State Park is perfect for an outdoorsy escape — its sparkling lake and stunning mountains make it a destination you can add to a list of breathtaking views in the U.S. you need to see. The small state park park boasts a unique blend of desert scenery and aquatic recreation opportunities, making it a haven for outdoor lovers of all kinds.

The lake itself has a shoreline of around 2 miles, and is a great spot for swimming, boating, and plenty of fun on the water. The lake got its name in 1900, when a jeweler was mining in the area and named the lake after his daughter. It quickly became a favorite summertime destination among locals thanks to its warm waters and dramatic desert backdrop.

Washington is home to plenty of beautiful Pacific Northwest scenery and a must-do road trip route, but plenty of the best sights can be enjoyed at Alta Lake State Park. It sits just less than a 10 minute drive southwest of Pateros in north-central Washington. It is located around a 3.5 hour drive from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, which makes it a great weekend escape for both city dwellers and those looking to fly in from further afield.

Famed for family-friendly activities like camping and waterfront recreation, Alta Lake is a must-see destination for anyone looking to enjoy Washington's great outdoors. The park is home to 91 standard campsites, 32 utility campsites, and two group camps, with most of these sites open seasonally between March and November. There's also a selection of convenient facilities on-site, including modern restrooms, picnic areas, and easy access to the lake. Staying at one of the park's campsites will only set you back between $20 and $35 per night, with additional fees for park entry, overnight unattended vehicles, watercraft launches, and trailer dumping.

During your visit, be sure to spend plenty of time out on the water. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing for rainbow trout and kokanee, paddleboarding, kayaking, and more. During the summer months, the lake's warm surface makes it an inviting spot for families searching for a safe and refreshing spot to cool off. If you prefer to stick to dry land, worry not! The Alta Lake Trail is a gorgeous route that winds through brush bushes, big leaf sage, and across steep terrain. Taking just over an hour to complete, visitors can not only enjoy the stunning flora and fauna in the area, but also sweeping views of the surrounding desert mountains.

As a stunning summer destination, Alta Lake State Park is best visited between late May and September, when temperatures range between 55 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. At this time of year, the weather is warm and the lake is at its most inviting. The spring and fall seasons bring about cooler weather and fewer crowds, perfect if you're planning on sticking to dry land and enjoying some peaceful camping and hiking. During the winter, temperatures can drop as low as 25 degrees, and the area can see a lot of snowfall, so the park typically closes between November 1 and March 30.

Bring along sunscreen, bug spray, swim gear, hats, and plenty of drinking water for your summertime visit, as the desert climate can be quite hot and dry. If you plan on staying indoors rather than camping, there are some options available nearby. Head to Pateros, located less than 10 minutes away, where you will find a couple of motels and inns. Howard's Lakeshore Inn, also known as Howard's on the River is a great choice, with cozy rooms that include a fireplace, private balcony and French doors. A stay here will set you back around $150 per night. While in the area, be sure to stock up on essentials and fill your stomach at The Sweet River Bakery before heading out for a day at this gorgeous state park. Here are some key differences between a state park vs. national park and how to decide which is right for your next trip.