Al Singer built the lodge in 1916 as a tavern. It was later developed into a sportsman's lodge and today remains essentially the same as Singer's original design. By 1937, additional cabins were constructed next to the lodge concurrent with Franklin D. Roosevelt's famous visit. Roosevelt stayed in one of the lake cabins and studied the area. He was so impressed by the beauty and majesty of the Olympics and surrounding forests that it led to his decision to create the Olympic National Park in 1938. Today, a series of four cabins sit next to the lodge with lake front views and are aptly named the Roosevelt Cottages. The lodge also displays copies of Roosevelt's menu and additional memorabilia of the period.

Lake Crescent Lodge is one of only a two lodges that actually flank the lake. Guests can stay in the lodge itself or in one of the adjacent (very inexpensive) cabins.

The cabins are rustic and reminiscent of the nostalgic and charming '60s era, but are clean and comfortable. Coffee makers are offered in each cabin with the addition of several comfy chairs. Guests can sit by the large windows and sip their favorite brew while enjoying a lake-view and cool breeze, or sit on their own wooden porch soaking up the sunshine.

The bathrooms are completely modern and host excellent quality amenities. Guests won't find a TV or telephone in their cabins; however, there is a public phone in the lodge with free wifi for guests. Moreover, TV is probably the furthest thing from a traveler's mind when visiting this lush and peaceful park. There is an unspoken rule amongst the guests and hikers that noise is kept to a minimum and this aphorism is part of the charm and draw of the lodge and lake.

The lodge rooms have a spectacular view of the lake and quaint decor, but guests must share bathroom facilities down the hall. In addition, these rooms are on the small side yet less expensive than the cabins.

The lakeside Roosevelt cottages are the finest the resort has to offer. They are a bit more private and are bordered on one side by a wooded creek and set off from the main lodge.

Larger than the cabins, the Roosevelt cottages are equipped with a small fridge and microwave, as well as modern bathroom facilities. Cedar floors, walls and ceilings accent the cozy furniture and stone fireplaces in each cottage. The living area contains a couch, coffee table, end tables and several easy chairs. A rainy day at the lake is a perfect time to curl up in a blanket with a steamy cup of coffee or tea by the fireplace and read a book, or just relax and forget the world.

These popular cottages are limited to four in number and are booked out a good deal in advance; it is important to call the lodge and inquire about availability several months or more before you wish to reserve a cottage.

Lake Crescent Lodge offers a sublime dining room with exceptionally fine cuisine created by Executive Chef Steve Sargent. The chef's culinary emphasis focuses on fresh local seafood and fish with various beef selections that are just as delectable, such as the grilled rib eye with a peppercorn brandy reduction.

The wine selection is impressive and proffers many Washington State wines, as well as excellent California Zinfandels, such as Sonoma's Seghesio. The deserts are luscious and a particularly coveted item is the lodge's exclusive, gourmet honey-lavender ice cream that is absolutely transcendent!

In the evening after sunset, guests congregate in the main lodge around the large stone fireplace, the bar area, or retreat to the glass-enclosed sunroom. It's a perfect place to relax with a glass of wine and chat, or play a game of cards. In the morning and afternoons, the sunroom is a great spot to slow down and just take in the beauty of the lake and languid summer days.

Activities around the lodge are numerous and suited to every energy level. The lodge provides rowboats for guests at a nominal charge and fishing is allowed on Lake Crescent without a license, but catch and release only.

There are several walking trails through the rainforest right from your cabin door. The trail loops vary with fluctuating degrees of elevation and distance. Marymere Falls is just three quarters of a mile away and well worth the hike; bring your camera. The "Moments in Time Trail" is about a mile flat loop where you can enjoy views of the lake and see former homestead sites, not to mention 700-year-old trees.

If you're a serious hiker or backpacker, the Olympic National Forest is host to some of the best hiking in the world. Hurricane Ridge is also located close by and visitors can drive all the way to the top and enjoy splendid panoramic views, flora and abundant wildlife; this national treasure should not be missed!

In addition, the city of Forks is located about 40 miles N.W. of Lake Crescent and receives a great number of visitors for its tourist's attractions and events surrounding Stephenie Meyer's Twilight series.

Travelers have to range further a field to find a secluded paradise these days and Lake Crescent is one of the few unspoiled places left. Whether you want a family nature outing, hiking and photography, or simply wish to read book and snooze in the sun, Lake Crescent Lodge caters to an amazing number of tastes and events, yet somehow harmoniously blends all these activities into a seamless coexistence. The lake and lodge are filled with a magical quality that brings visitors back year after year to experience a world away.

The lodge is open each year on May 8 and closes October 17th. However, the Roosevelt cabins are available to rent in the off-season (the lodge and dining room are closed during this period).

For additional information on Lake Crescent Lodge, call 360-928-3211, or visit their website http://www.lakecrescentlodge.com