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Nestled in the heart of Washington State’s Olympic Peninsula, Lake Sutherland is a hidden gem known for its calm, clear waters, mountain views, and proximity to top outdoor attractions. Spanning 351 acres, this freshwater lake offers a peaceful yet adventurous escape for paddlers, anglers, and nature lovers. Located just 17 miles west of Port Angeles and minutes from Olympic National Park, Lake Sutherland serves as a strategic base for exploring the Pacific Northwest’s diverse natural beauty.
Lake Sutherland is ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding, thanks to its glassy surface and scenic shoreline. Visitors can paddle into quiet coves, spot bald eagles overhead, and enjoy sunrise reflections off the surrounding forested hills. Fishing enthusiasts will find excellent opportunities for rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, and coastal cutthroat trout, with convenient lake access via the Maple Grove Boat Launch.
Warmer than nearby Lake Crescent, Lake Sutherland is also a favorite summer swimming spot for families, with cabin rentals and vacation homes dotting the shoreline. For hikers, the nearby Marymere Falls Trail offers a family-friendly walk through mossy old-growth forests to a picturesque 90-foot waterfall. Just a short drive away, the alpine vistas of Hurricane Ridge and the relaxing Sol Duc Hot Springs provide additional ways to connect with the region’s natural wonders.
Visitors can also explore Port Angeles, a coastal gateway town offering restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions such as the Feiro Marine Life Center and the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center. Whether you’re planning a fishing weekend, a family lakefront retreat, or an active itinerary combining hot springs, hiking, and paddling, Lake Sutherland delivers a well-rounded Olympic Peninsula experience.
- Surface area (mi)
- 0.91
- Max depth (ft)
- 85.99
- Elevation (ft)
- 528.22
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 5
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Ice Skating
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Help us improve by making a suggestion.
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Sutherland has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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No, swimming is not allowed in Sutherland Reservoir in San Diego. This is due to health and safety concerns. For Lake Sutherland in Washington, swimming is allowed during the summer months.
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Lake Sutherland is a popular destination because of its excellent fishing, particularly for kokanee salmon. The lake’s clear and somewhat warmer waters also make it suitable for swimming, and it offers opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and other outdoor activities near Olympic National Park.
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In Lake Sutherland, Washington, there are specific size limits for certain fish. For trout, the minimum size is 14 inches for cutthroat and wild rainbow trout, while other trout have no minimum size but a daily limit of 5. For bass, largemouth bass have a maximum size of 12 inches except one over 17 inches can be retained.
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There is no public beach at Lake Sutherland. Much of the shoreline is privately owned, and the limited shoreline access is mostly restricted to private properties and a single fishing access point.
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The closest town to Lake Sutherland, Washington, is Port Angeles. It is located approximately 17-18 miles east of the lake. Port Angeles is the largest city in Clallam County and serves as a convenient base for accessing the lake and nearby Olympic National Park.
