Log boom dam guard Lake Aldwell
Lake Aldwell is the impoundment of the Elwha River above the lower of the two dams on it (both slated for removal in 2011).
The main local two-lane road through this region, Highway 101, makes a moderately steep descent from the east, to the bridge crossing the Elwha a short ways above the upper end of the lake. This slope forms the eastern side of the lake, and at the top before the road descends, is a large paved pullout & viewpoint. There are views of Lake Aldwell, and excellent views further up the Elwha River valley and surrounding & interior (National Park) mountains.
Lake Aldwell from Hwy 101 viewpoint
The hillside along the western shore of the lake are public DNR State timberlands. A gravel logging road runs along the hillside, from Eden Valley Road (mileage from Hwy 112) to Highway 101 in Indian Valley. It is not close to the lakeside, but a hike through the woods of a quarter to a half an hour brings one to the shore. The upper (southern) part of the lake is much easier to get to this way.
There is a public boatlaunch on the western shore, at the upper end of the lake.
