Summit Lake, lake in Thurston County, Washington state, United States of America
Summit Lake is a freshwater lake in Thurston County in northwestern Washington covering about 511 acres and reaching depths of up to 90 feet. The water is clean and clear, home to rainbow trout, kokanee salmon, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and coastal cutthroat trout.
The lake was named around 1900 after being known previously as Prays Lake and Crooked Lake. A significant event occurred in September 2025 when a U.S. Army MH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crashed near the area, resulting in the deaths of four soldiers.
The lake received its current name around 1900, replacing earlier names like Prays Lake and Crooked Lake. Today, the community uses it primarily for fishing, boating, and quiet recreation, reflecting how the water shapes local outdoor habits and leisure time.
A boat launch on the southwestern side is maintained by the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife and is accessible year-round for fishing and boating. The lake sits roughly 10 miles west of Olympia and is easy to reach for visitors throughout the region.
The lake's water is oligotrophic, meaning it is extremely clean with minimal nutrient buildup and naturally filters itself. This makes it a valuable drinking water reservoir for the local community and contributes to the exceptional clarity visitors notice.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
