Kachess Lake

Kachess Lake is an artificial reservoir in the Cascade Range mountains of Washington that serves as a water storage facility. The lake has an elongated shape and considerable depth, functioning as an important part of the region's water management system.

A dam was built in the early 20th century to transform this location into a water storage facility for a major irrigation project in the region. This transformation fundamentally changed the natural landscape and continues to shape the area today.

The name Kachess comes from Native American language and means 'more fish', showing how important this place was to people who lived here long before modern times. Visitors can connect with this heritage when they stand by the water and think about the abundance that once defined this place.

The lake is accessible for fishing throughout the year, though visitors should be aware of local regulations. During warmer months the water level drops noticeably, which can affect the use of boat launch facilities.

The lake was originally created from a natural valley, and at very low water levels old structures can become visible. These forgotten remnants tell the story of how the area looked before it was flooded.

Location: Kittitas County

Location: Washington

Elevation above the sea: 688 m

GPS coordinates: 47.30779,-121.23240

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:44