The gorgeous, glacier-carved lakes Quinault and Crescent in Olympic National Park are incredible to see from the beach, but even more fun to explore on the water. Which is why it’s great that there are canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards available for rent at both lakes.

Lake Quinault Lodge rents watercrafts to hopeful lake-farers, who can rent by hour, half day, or full day. Paddling out and slowly exploring the lake from the surface of the glassy water is to find an intimacy with the lake unforseen from the shoreline. Also, great views back toward land, with the rainforest surrounding the cabins and living along the shoreline.

At Lake Crescent, there are guided scenic kayak trips available, where guests join a guide to coast around the lake, learning about the history of the region, the formation of the lakes, and its ecology. Alternatively, you can rent kayaks, canoes or paddleboards and self-explore to your heart’s content.