Echo Lake (Shoreline, Washington) Explained

Echo Lake
Coords:	47.7714°N -122.3432°W
Basin Countries:	United States
Area:	11.1acres
Max-Depth:	30feet
Elevation:	395feet
Pushpin Map:	Washington#USA

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. Echo Lake and other nearby lakes such as Lake Ballinger, Haller Lake, and Bitter Lake. From 1916 to 1996, it 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.^{[1] [2] [3]}

Description

Echo Lake Park contains popular amenities such as a beach, paved trails, a playground, and public art.^[4]

Echo Lake is stocked with rainbow trout by the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife.^[5] 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.^{[6] [7]}

Notes and References

1. Web site: Copass . Cloantha . September 30, 1996 . Overview of Shoreline History . King County Historic Preservation Program . January 11, 2024.
2. Web site: Stein . Alan . February 20, 1999 . Shoreline — Thumbnail History . . January 11, 2024.
3. Web site: Echo Lake Bathing Beach and parking lot, Echo Lake, 1952 . University of Washington . January 11, 2024.
4. Web site: Echo Lake Park . City of Shoreline . January 11, 2024.
5. Web site: Echo Lake . . January 11, 2024.
6. Web site: Echo-Shoreline Lake . King County Water and Land Resources Division . January 11, 2024.
7. News: April 23, 2021 . Toxic algae closes Echo Lake in Shoreline to recreational activities . . January 11, 2024.