Things To Do
in Lake Tapps
Lake Tapps is a reservoir located in Pierce County, Washington, United States. It was created in 1911 as a result of the construction of the White River Dam. The lake covers an area of 2,410 acres and has a shoreline of approximately 45 miles.
Lake Tapps is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and other water-related activities in the Pacific Northwest.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a scenic stroll along the Lake Tapps waterfront, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful views. Grab a coffee at a local cafe to fuel your morning adventure.
Head to one of the public parks around the lake for a picnic lunch. After eating, you can engage in activities such as kayaking or paddleboarding.
Wrap up the day with a sunset viewing by the lake. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with lake views to keep the atmosphere relaxed.
Rent a bike and explore the nearby trails that wind around Lake Tapps. The early hours are best for enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Pack lunch and find a scenic spot to refuel. Afterward, take a longer bike ride to discover hidden gems in the area.
Return to your starting point and enjoy a casual dinner at a local eatery. Consider an evening walk to reflect on the day's adventures.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities
- Water activities such as boating, fishing, and kayaking
- Residential areas offer a peaceful suburban lifestyle
- Community events and local gatherings foster a strong sense of belonging
- Proximity to Mount Rainier National Park for additional outdoor adventures
- Limited shopping and dining options compared to larger cities
- Potential for overcrowding during peak tourist seasons
- Higher property taxes in certain areas
- Risk of seasonal algae blooms affecting water quality
- Weather can be rainy and overcast, particularly in the fall and winter months
Best Activities in Lake Tapps
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful waters of Lake Tapps by kayaking. Rentals are available for both single and tandem kayaks, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views and serene environment.
Take advantage of the nearby hiking trails that offer various levels of difficulty. Enjoy lush greenery and picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and lake.
Lake Tapps is popular for fishing enthusiasts. You can fish for various species including trout and bass, either from a boat or the shore.
There are numerous parks around the lake where you can set up a picnic. Enjoy the natural beauty while having a meal with family and friends.
During the warm months, swimming is a popular activity in Lake Tapps. Several public access points provide safe areas for swimming.
Try stand-up paddleboarding for a fun way to explore Lake Tapps. Rentals are available, and it's a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the water.
Enjoy the great outdoors by camping at one of the campgrounds near the lake. Experience the beauty of nature while sleeping under the stars.
Tours
Uncover the best of Lake Tapps with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Lake Tapps
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic park that offers stunning views of Lake Tapps and the surrounding mountains, ideal for photography and enjoying nature.
An elevated viewpoint providing panoramic views of Lake Tapps and its shimmering waters, perfect for capturing breathtaking sunsets.
A picturesque island that can be accessed by boat, featuring sandy beaches and lush greenery, providing unique angles for photography.
A beautiful walking trail that hugs the shoreline of Lake Tapps, offering numerous opportunities for nature photography and scenic views.
This bridge offers fantastic vantage points of the lake and surrounding landscapes, ideal for wide-angle shots and landscape photography.
A community park with open spaces and waterfront access, providing opportunities for great photography with the lake as the backdrop.
Food in Lake Tapps
Lake Tapps Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish, featuring fresh salmon, often grilled or smoked to perfection. Recommended at Lake Tapps Grill or Kelly's Home Plate.
Must-Try!
Delicious crab cakes made with local Dungeness crab. Look for these at the Out & About Burgers food truck for a unique street food experience.
Indulge in the regional huckleberry flavor at the Ice Cream Social, a local favorite for dessert.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Lake Tapps better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An ideal place to sample fresh produce, homemade treats, and artisanal products, open seasonally on Saturdays.
Experience a variety of street food delights at the regular Food Truck Frenzy events held at various locations around Lake Tapps.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Lake Tapps is known for its beautiful natural surroundings. Residents and visitors are encouraged to practice environmental stewardship by keeping the area clean, avoiding littering, and respecting local wildlife.
Participating in local events and activities is a great way to show respect for the community. Engaging with neighbors and attending community meetings fosters a sense of belonging and appreciation for local culture.
Polite behavior such as saying 'thank you', greeting others with a smile, and being considerate in public spaces is valued in Lake Tapps. This contributes to a friendly and welcoming atmosphere for both residents and visitors.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Lake Tapps with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Lake Tapps
Ensure a smooth experience
In Lake Tapps, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is common practice in the service industry. It is customary to tip servers in restaurants between 15% to 20% of the total bill. Tipping is also expected for other service providers such as hairdressers, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. The culture encourages gratitude for good service, reflecting the service industry's reliance on tips as a significant part of income.
Payment methods in Lake Tapps include cash, credit cards, and digital payment options such as mobile wallets. Most businesses, including restaurants and retailers, accept major credit cards. Local establishments may also offer contactless payment options. It's important to confirm accepted payment methods, particularly in smaller businesses or during local events.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Lake Tapps.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit Lake Tapps as the weather begins to warm up, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s°F. Expect blooming flowers, lush greenery, and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s a perfect season for outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and fishing, with fewer crowds than the summer.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season at Lake Tapps, with temperatures often reaching into the 80s and 90s°F. This is the best time for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Expect larger crowds and various events, such as festivals and beach activities. It’s advisable to book accommodations in advance.
Fall (September to November) brings cooler temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s°F and stunning fall foliage. This season is ideal for hiking and enjoying the scenic views of the colorful leaves. The crowds begin to dwindle, and it's a peaceful time to visit, especially in September and early October before the colder weather sets in.
Winter (December to February) at Lake Tapps can be chilly, with temperatures ranging from the 30s to 50s°F. While it may not be ideal for water sports, the area is perfect for winter hiking and enjoying the serene landscape. Expect some snowfall and a quieter atmosphere, making it a beautiful time for cozy indoor activities near the lake.
Lake Tapps at Night
Hiking in Lake Tapps
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that circles around the beautiful Lake Tapps, offering views of the water and surrounding forest areas.
A local park featuring trails that are great for hiking, with open spaces and views of the lake.
Located a short drive from Lake Tapps, Alder Lake Park provides hiking trails along the lake, surrounded by trees and wildlife.
Offering more challenging hikes, this trail features unique canyon views and varied terrain, about an hour's drive from Lake Tapps.
A bit further away, this iconic national park has numerous hiking trails that range from easy walks to strenuous hikes with breathtaking mountain views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Lake Tapps through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Lake Tapps by plane.
The primary international airport serving the Seattle metropolitan area, located approximately 35 miles northwest of Lake Tapps.
An international airport in Portland, Oregon, located about 140 miles south of Lake Tapps, offering numerous domestic and international flights.
Located about 30 miles northwest of Lake Tapps, this airport is primarily for general aviation but also caters to some commercial flights.
Located approximately 260 miles east of Lake Tapps, this is the primary airport serving Spokane and the surrounding region.
Located approximately 220 miles south of Lake Tapps, this airport serves the northwest Arkansas region with some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Lake Tapps, typically accounting for a significant majority of the population.
This group represents a noteworthy percentage of the population, reflecting a growing community.
Includes individuals of various Asian backgrounds, contributing to the diversity of the area.
A smaller demographic group, but an important part of the community's cultural fabric.
Represents a very small percentage of the population, with rich cultural heritage.
Includes individuals from various other racial backgrounds, adding to the overall diversity.
The Soul of Lake Tapps
Discover the essence of Lake Tapps through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played on a court, where players aim to score points by shooting a ball through the opposing team's hoop.
A widely played team sport in which players aim to score goals by getting a ball into the opposing team’s net, using primarily their feet.
A bat-and-ball game played between two teams, where players score runs by hitting a pitched ball and running around the diamond's four bases.
A team sport where players hit a ball over a net with the objective of grounding it on the opponent’s side of the court.
A popular individual sport in the area, encompassing various levels of competitive and recreational distances.
A racket sport played either individually against a single opponent or between two teams of two players each, aiming to hit a ball over a net into the opponent’s court.
A recreational activity enjoyed on Lake Tapps, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lake Tapps.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as the Buddha Bowl at The Bench Cafe and the vegan burger at Out & About Burgers.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy gluten-free pizzas at Lake Tapps Grill and gluten-free baked goods at the Farmers Market.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Lake Tapps with these cultural adventures.
