Echo Lake (Shoreline, Washington)

Echo Lake
Echo Lake from Echo Lake Park
Echo Lake
Echo Lake
LocationShoreline, Washington
Coordinates47°46′17″N 122°20′35″W / 47.771421°N 122.343184°W / 47.771421; -122.343184 (Echo Lake)
Basin countriesUnited States
Surface area11.10 acres (4.49 ha)
Max. depth30 ft (9.1 m)
Surface elevation395 ft (120 m)

Echo Lake is located in Shoreline, Washington, a suburb adjacent to Seattle. Echo Lake Park sits on its northeastern corner.

History

Echo Lake has played an important role in Shoreline's history. During the 1800s, logging was a significant industry in the region. In the early 1900s, Mowatt's Sawmill operated at the north end of Echo Lake.[1]

From 1916 to 1996, the lake had a bathing beach that cost a nickel for admission. The lake was a center for social life, especially during the summer. Apartment buildings now stand on the former beach site.[2][3][4]

Description

Echo Lake Park contains popular amenities such as a beach, paved trails, a playground, and public art.[5]

Echo Lake is stocked with rainbow trout by the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife.[6] The lake suffers from high nutrient levels (eutrophication), causing algal growth and impacting water quality. In April 2021, these conditions led to algal blooms containing anatoxin, a highly toxic chemical. This led to a temporary lake closure.[7][8]

References

  1. ^ "Echo Lake, view of north end including Mowatt's Mill, Echo Lake, ca. 1913". University of Washington. Retrieved October 16, 2024.
  2. ^ Copass, Cloantha (September 30, 1996). "Overview of Shoreline History". King County Historic Preservation Program. p. 5. Retrieved January 11, 2024.
  3. ^ Stein, Alan (February 20, 1999). "Shoreline — Thumbnail History". HistoryLink. Retrieved January 11, 2024.
  4. ^ "Echo Lake Bathing Beach and parking lot, Echo Lake, 1952". University of Washington. Retrieved January 11, 2024.
  5. ^ "Echo Lake Park". City of Shoreline. Retrieved January 11, 2024.
  6. ^ "Echo Lake". Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife. Retrieved January 11, 2024.
  7. ^ "Echo-Shoreline Lake". King County Water and Land Resources Division. Retrieved January 11, 2024.
  8. ^ "Toxic algae closes Echo Lake in Shoreline to recreational activities". KIRO 7 News. April 23, 2021. Retrieved January 11, 2024.