Things To Do
in Lake Tapps
Lake Tapps is a man-made reservoir in Pierce County, Washington, formed by damming the White River. The lake is a popular recreation hub for boating, fishing, swimming, and waterfront picnics, with several parks and marinas lining the shoreline. Located near the towns of Auburn, Sumner, and Bonney Lake, it offers quick access to the greater Seattle-Tacoma region.
Visitors can enjoy scenic sunsets, water activities, and easy day trips to nearby mountains and forests.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival at Lake Tapps, take some time to settle into your accommodation and soak in the beautiful views of the lake. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, where you can savor fresh pastries and local coffee. After breakfast, consider a peaceful walk along the waterfront to explore the area and its natural beauty.
In the afternoon, rent a kayak or paddleboard to get out on the sparkling waters of Lake Tapps. Experience the thrill of gliding across the lake while surrounded by stunning scenery, or simply cruise along at a relaxed pace. Make sure to pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on one of the scenic beaches.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for dinner, where you can enjoy delicious regional cuisine paired with stunning views of the lake. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the shore or relax by a fire pit, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the evening. Wrap up the day by stargazing, as the clear skies give way to a blanket of stars.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before gearing up for a hiking adventure. Head to nearby Mount Rainier National Park for scenic trails that showcase breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains. Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks as you explore the diverse flora and fauna along the trails.
After an exhilarating hike, return to Lake Tapps and enjoy a late lunch at a lakeside eatery. Consider indulging in a well-deserved ice cream treat as you relax and recount the day's adventures. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach, or take a refreshing dip in the lake to cool off.
As evening approaches, gather with friends or family around a barbecue at your accommodation, grilling up some tasty summer favorites. Take the time to enjoy good food, laughter, and stories under the fading sunlight. End the night by crafting s'mores over the open fire, creating sweet memories to last a lifetime.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏨Hotel (per night) | $90-150 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3.50-4.50 |
| 🎟️Movie ticket | $12-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic lakeside scenery
- Strong outdoor recreation options
- Proximity to Seattle-Tacoma amenities
- Family-friendly towns and parks
- Limited nightlife on Lake Tapps itself
- Seasonal crowds at peak times
- Traffic on major routes during commute and weekends
- Boat traffic can cause crowded waterways in summer
Places to Visit in Lake Tapps
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic vantage point where the dam's structure and the lake open up dramatic water views, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Shoreline trails and piers provide classic lake photography opportunities with boats, reflections, and wildlife.
Elevated spots on the lake’s western shore offer expansive golden-hour shots over calm water.
Industrial-chic piers and nearby storefronts give a moody lakeside cityscape during blue hour.
Food in Lake Tapps
Lake Tapps Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy chowder featuring locally caught salmon; a Northwest favorite at waterfront cafes in Auburn and Sumner.
Must-Try!
A seasonal dessert made with Pacific Northwest berries; available at farmers markets and bakeries in summer.
A popular Northwest preparation with a smoky flavor; common at grilled seafood spots along the lake.
A regional pie often found in bakeries during late summer months.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh produce, berries, seafood and prepared foods in downtown Puyallup.
Weekly market with local produce, baked goods, and street-food stalls.
Rotating lineup of food trucks parked at lakefront parks during summer weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly, polite greetings are appreciated. Respect personal space and quiet in residential neighborhoods and parks, especially near lakeside residential areas.
Stand in line, yield to pedestrians on sidewalks, and follow posted park rules. Keep noise levels reasonable near residences and wildlife areas.
Safety
Tipping in Lake Tapps
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is customary. Leave tips for bar staff, ride-share drivers, and hotel staff as appropriate; some larger groups may incur a service charge.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash remains common in smaller venues. Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are increasingly supported at shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with abundant outdoor activities; peak boat traffic and sun protection is essential. Expect long daylight hours, occasional heat waves, and lively lakeside events.
Milder days with colorful foliage along the shoreline; fewer crowds than summer, but rain becomes more frequent as autumn progresses.
Wet and cool, with potential for rain rather than snow; outdoor activities are more limited, but nearby mountains offer snowy adventures.
Mild but showery conditions; wildflowers start to bloom and fishing seasons reopen; great for photography and light outdoor exploring.
Lake Tapps at Night
Hiking in Lake Tapps
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy, scenic lakeside paths suitable for all ages; great for sunrise photography.
Popular day hikes through forested hills with viewpoints over the valleys.
Coastal-adjacent loops with water views and golf course scenery within driving distance.
Airports
How to reach Lake Tapps by plane.
Major international gateway about 25-40 miles northwest; accessible by interstates and regional transit.
Regional airport in Everett about 30-40 miles northwest; serves domestic flights and some regional routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Suburban households living around the lake and in nearby towns.
Residents who travel to Tacoma, Seattle, and Bellevue for work.
Growing number of retirees attracted by lake access and tranquil neighborhoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular recreational leagues and local school programs throughout the area.
Local high school and college games draw community crowds in fall.
Seasonal beach-style volleyball on lakeside courts during summer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lake Tapps.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in cafes and markets; look for grilled vegetables, veggie burgers, salads, and fruit-focused desserts. Tell servers about any dairy or gluten restrictions to help tailor options.