Diablo Lake Overlook

Enjoy views of glacial-fed Diablo Lake, located within the heart of the North Cascades. See rugged mountains that rise around the lake and the historic Diablo Dam in the distance. Learn about water, geology, glaciers, and the plants and animals that call this place home. In summer, the distinctive turquoise color of the lake is the result of suspended fine rock particles refracting sunlight. These rock particles, called glacial flour, enter the lake when rock from the surrounding mountains is eroded by ice and flows into the water through glacial streams. The color is most vibrant on sunny days in July, August, and September when seasonal glacial melt occurs.

Photo courtesy of Cascade Loop Scenic Byway